In a joint economic cooperation committee meeting of the Islamic Republic of Iran and the Republic of Korea held in Tehran, Iran on 2 May 2016 headed by the President of Korea, Ms. Park Geun-hye, and her Iranian counterpart, President Hasan Rouhani, their respective Customs organizations formally agreed to expand their cooperation.

South Korea is one of the main trading partners of Iran. As large volumes of commodities are traded between them, it was of great benefit to deepen the existing Customs cooperation. Non-oil trade between Iran and South Korea stands at around $5 billion, so security and facilitation of importing and exporting goods and smooth flowing of cargo is a concern for both parties.

The agreement covers, among other things, issues such as technical assistance, sharing knowledge and experience, exchange visits to Customs good practices, and conducting training programs.

Because of the geographical position of Iran, it is also considered as a transit route for cargo coming from South Korea and passing to northern neighbor nations of Iran, so that enhances the importance of Customs cooperation between Iran and South Korea.

The agreement was signed by Dr. Masoud Karbasian Head of Iran Customs and Mr. Yun Byung-se Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Korea.