Iran allows duty-free import of 4.5 million tons of wheat and barley from the Eurasian Economic Union

Amid tensions in the Middle East, positive news has emerged for India. Iran has announced the lifting of restrictions for vessels transiting the Strait of Hormuz, including ships from India, China, Iraq, and Qatar.

Trade along this maritime route had become extremely difficult due to the ongoing conflict between Iran, the US, and Israel. However, this decision is expected to significantly ease shipping and the supply of energy resources to India.

Amir Hayat Mokaddam, Deputy Chairman of the Iranian Parliament's National Security and Foreign Policy Committee, revealed this information in an interview. He explained that this system is based on the interests of four countries: Iran, India, China, Iraq, and Qatar.

Mokaddam stated: 'We have temporarily exempted India, China, Iraq, and Qatar from transit restrictions in Hormuz. Ships from these countries pass freely, and even Americans do not stop them.'

According to local media reports, one of the key reasons for granting India an exemption is Iran's need for vital medicines. Due to strict international sanctions and the ongoing war, Iran faces difficulties in procuring pharmaceuticals on global markets. The Indian pharmaceutical sector is a key supplier for Iran, and allowing Indian ships passage will simplify the import of necessary goods and medicines.

Regarding China, Iran's strategy is to gain political support. China is a major partner of Iran in the fields of energy and trade, and Beijing's diplomatic support is highly significant for Iran amid pressure from the US.

Hormuz, located between Oman and Iran, is one of the world's most important sea routes, connecting the Persian Gulf with the Arabian Sea. For India, this route is critically important as a 'vital energy artery.'

According to the Ministry of Oil, before the conflict began in 2026, about 45 percent of India's crude oil imports and approximately 90 percent of its liquefied gas (LPG) imports passed through this route. Furthermore, a significant portion of India's LNG supplies, especially from Qatar and the UAE, is transported via this route.

According to the National Statistical Committee, Uzbekistan's foreign trade revenue for the period from January to September 2026 amounted to $65.4 billion. This figure exceeds the same period in 2025 by $3.9 billion, which represents a growth of 6.3 percent.

However, the main growth was driven by imports. Imports increased by $5.36 billion compared to last year, reaching $39.6 billion. At the same time, exports decreased by $1.49 billion, totaling $25.8 billion.

As a result of this imbalance, the negative balance in foreign trade reached $13.7 billion. Nevertheless, if gold is excluded, the export of goods grew by 31.6% compared to the previous year, reaching $13.3 billion.