Visit of the Iran and Turkey Economic Consortium to Maku Free Zone

Visit of the Iran-Turkey Economic Consortium to Maku Free Zone
Following the signing of a cooperation agreement between the Iran andTurkey Economic Consortium and the Maku Free Zone during Iran Expo 2025, a delegation from the Consortium conducted a field visit and held a specialized meeting with the deputy directors and senior managers of the Maku Free Zone.
During this meeting, the major potentials of Maku in the fields of agriculture, livestock, poultry, and aquaculture were thoroughly reviewed, and mutual opportunities for developing Iran-Turkey cooperation were discussed with the participation of Turkish experts.
Maku: A Strategic Bridge between Iran and Turkey
As the largest free zone in Iran, Maku is located at the common border with Turkey, Azerbaijan, and Armenia, playing a pivotal role in regional trade. Situated on the East-West International Transit Corridor and the modern Silk Road, Maku has the potential to become a regional trade and logistics hub, connecting Iran and Turkey with Europe and the Caucasus.
Key Capacities of the Maku Free Zone
Geographical and Transit Advantages
• Location on the East-West International Transit Corridor and the Silk Road
• Access to Bazargan and Poldasht border terminals for rapid trade exchanges
• Potential to develop logistics centers, warehousing, and re-export platforms to Turkey and Europe
Agriculture and Food Industry
• Fertile lands suitable for the production of strategic crops (wheat, potatoes, apples, grapes, and other fruits)
• Strong potential for exporting fresh and processed products to Turkey and European markets
• Opportunities for joint Iran-Turkey investment in food processing and packaging industries
Livestock, Poultry, and Aquaculture
• Favorable conditions for industrial and traditional livestock farming
• Production of red and white meat with export potential to neighboring countries
• Special advantages for cold-water and warm-water fish farming and aquaculture development
Industry and Energy
• Stable access to energy resources (electricity, gas, and water) for industrial units
• Opportunities for establishing joint industrial parks between Iran and Turkey
• Development potential in agro-processing and related industries
Tourism and Investment
• Rich natural attractions including the Aras River, Mount Ararat, and mountain landscapes
• Potential in health tourism, eco-tourism, and border trade
• Tax and customs exemptions to attract foreign investors
Outlook for Joint Cooperation
By evaluating these capacities, the Iran-Turkey Economic Consortium has taken the first steps toward designing joint projects in agriculture, agro-processing, livestock, and aquaculture. Such cooperation can pave the way for expanding trade exchanges, attracting joint investments, and strengthening Maku’s role as a regional economic and commercial hub.