[caption id="attachment_37251" align="alignright" width="234"] A view of the Tehran Stock Exchange (file photo)[/caption]
Iran has paved the way for the inflow of foreign investment into the nations stock markets, says a local official.
Foreign investors can easily enter Irans capital market under the [Iranian] foreign investment law, and they will receive shareholder codes within seven working days, said Ali Salehabadi, chairman of the Iranian Securities and Exchange Organization.
As a key incentive, foreign investors do not need any permission from the Iranian government to do business in Irans stock exchange.
The administration of President Hassan Rouhani has repeatedly underlined its resolve to facilitate foreign investment in different economic sectors, particularly, energy, mining, industry and agriculture.
Tehrans package of incentives covers a wide range of issues from tax exemptions to providing facilities.
According to Iranian officials, foreign investors in the agriculture sector will not have to pay any taxes and foreign investment in industry and mining will be exempted up to 80 percent.
In August 2013, Iran approved new foreign investment plans valued at USD 310 million, regarding the petrochemical, telecommunications, tourism, and mining sectors.
Moreover, tax exemptions in free trade zones will be extended for 20 years.
Meanwhile, many business delegations from different countries have visited Iran in recent months to examine investment opportunities.
World oil giants have also voiced their readiness to return to Iran following the easing of sanctions against the country in light of the implementation of Tehrans nuclear deal with the six world powers.
According to Iranian officials, Spains Repsol, Royal Dutch Shell, British Petroleum (BP), Frances Total, Italys Eni and Russias Lukoil have shown willingness for investment in Iran.