EAEU and Iran: Current State, Problems, and Prospects of Foreign Trade Cooperation

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the state and dynamics of foreign trade cooperation between the Eurasian Economic Union (EAEU) and Iran from 2003 to 2022. The research is based on statistical data from the customs authorities of the member countries, analyzing the evolution of the structure of multilateral trade and assessing the impact of various factors on the development of trade and economic relations. The article demonstrates that despite the growth in trade turnover, the trade structure is characterized by very low diversification, with the agro-industrial complex products playing a dominant role. Special attention is given to aspects such as Iran's protectionist policies and the international economic sanctions imposed on Iran and Russia, and their impact on trade. It is shown that the weak development of trade is due to Iran's protection of its domestic market, which not only prevents EAEU exporters from presenting their products in the Iranian market but also reduces the international competitiveness of Iranian industry, which has long existed in non-competitive conditions. The article also examines the impact of the Interim Agreement aimed at creating a free trade zone between the EAEU and Iran on the foreign trade cooperation of the parties. The prospects for further cooperation are analyzed, and the most promising product niches are identified in light of the conclusion of the Free Trade Agreement between Iran and the EAEU. The article shows that the most effective means of developing trade is the further development of efforts to remove trade barriers through the integration of Iran into the EAEU free trade zone.