These ports connect Iran to major international markets in East Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Africa, and Europe. Despite international sanctions and diplomatic pressures, Bandar Abbas continues to play a vital role in circumventing economic isolation. Its capacity for transshipment, re-export, and oil exports makes it indispensable in Iran’s logistics and maritime policy.
Industrialization and Special Economic Zones
The economic architecture of Bandar Abbas is supported by its designation as a special economic zone (SEZ). This status has allowed the city to attract domestic and international investment in various sectors including mining, metallurgy, shipbuilding, petrochemicals, and logistics. The city is also home to several large industrial complexes such as aluminum smelters, steel plants, and refineries that contribute significantly to national GDP.
The Hormozgan Petrochemical Company, for instance, is one of Iran’s largest producers of polymers and basic chemicals. In tandem, the Bandar Abbas Refinery is a major supplier of refined fuels to domestic markets. Together, these facilities support not only the regional economy but also feed into Iran’s broader industrial network.