Political and Economic System - Iran operates under a unique theocratic republic, blending religious rule with democratic elements, where the Supreme Leader holds ultimate authority [1][2] - Religious charities (Bonyads) and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) exert significant control over Iran's economy, estimated at 20% and 30%-50% of GDP respectively, operating independently of government oversight and contributing to a complex power structure [4][5] - The Supreme Leader directly controls key institutions, including the judiciary, military, and media, ensuring religious authority's dominance over elected bodies [1] Economic Challenges and Strategies - Heavily reliant on fossil fuels, with oil exports accounting for 90% of government revenue, Iran faces significant economic pressure from international sanctions, particularly targeting its energy sector [4] - To circumvent sanctions, Iran employs a "Ghost Fleet" of aging tankers to secretly transport oil, engaging in ship-to-ship transfers and other deceptive practices [3] - Iran's economy suffers from high inflation, exceeding 30% in recent years, exacerbated by government subsidies, particularly for energy, which accounted for 27% of its GDP in 2022, equivalent to $100 billion [5] Key Industries and Trade - Despite economic challenges, Iran has developed a significant automotive industry, ranking as the 12th largest globally and accounting for 10% of its GDP [5][6] - Iran is a major producer and exporter of high-value agricultural products and handicrafts, including caviar, saffron, pistachios, and carpets [6] - The country's complex multi-exchange rate system, designed to manage inflation and trade, has been prone to corruption and arbitrage, leading to its eventual abandonment [5] International Relations and Sanctions - Iran's foreign policy is driven by its Shiite Islamic ideology, leading to support for regional allies and confrontation with adversaries, particularly the United States and Israel [2] - US sanctions, intensified since 2010 and further tightened after the US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018, have significantly impacted Iran's GDP and oil exports [3] - The "Twelve Day War" with Israel in June 2025 and subsequent attacks on Iranian nuclear facilities have further escalated tensions and economic challenges [6]
一口气了解伊朗经济
小Lin说·2025-09-16 09:01