Back to Iran

Talakoub, Hossein; ,

Back to Iran

by Hossein Talakoub, International Consulting Group, Tehran, Iran,

Serial Information: Worldwide Projects, 1993, Vol. 1, Issue 2, Pg. 35-37

Document Type: Feature article

Abstract:

Surprisingly to some, Iran continues to rank among the attractive markets of the Middle East. Despite political and economic problems, it is a large market, its location makes it strategically important in Central Asia and the Persian Gulf, and it is rich in raw materials and skilled labor. Infrastructure needs are great, and the country is ready to rebuild and undertake new projects. Planned roadwork includes rebuilding or resurfacing more than 10,000 km of highways and more than 30,000 km of secondary roads. Hospitals are to be built nationwide, along with a housing mega-project for low- and middle-income families. Tehran plans new streets and expressways, completion of the underground rail, a new sewer system, and more. Qeshm Island, the economic free zone near the Strait of Hormuz, is considering several large projects, including a link to the mainland, a gas-burning steel mill, gas-burning power plant, port, airport, homes and hotels. National oil and gas companies have a list of projects including oil and gas pipelines, refineries, office buildings and related infrastructure. A sidebar by Contributing Editor Candace Port-Hull discusses political and economic risks for international firms working in Iran. Concern about Iran's ability to repay its foreign debt has grown, but in March the World Bank has approved three loans for the country, and non-U.S. consultants and contractors are aggressively pursuing work there.

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