Iran VP for science, tech: Localized production chains key to knowledge-based economy
In a three-hour visit to the INOTEX 2025 tech expo, Iran’s Vice President for Science, Technology and Knowledge-Based Economy, Hossein Afshin, emphasized the need to shift from product-focused innovation to building integrated domestic production chains.
Afshin said, “Our goal is not merely showcasing final products. We must ensure that all stages of production—components, design, and assembly—are completed by domestic firms. This exhibition is a critical platform for that vision.”
INOTEX 2025 features over 450 knowledge-based companies across 8,000 square meters of booth space. Afshin highlighted the importance of public engagement—especially by students—encouraging families to bring youth to visit the event and experience the innovation ecosystem firsthand.
Addressing exports, he noted that while knowledge-based exports are valued at $500–600 million, indirect contributions—such as domestic catalyst production enabling petrochemical exports—far exceed that figure.
He also announced the phased arrival of Graphics Processing Units (GPU) farms, forming critical AI infrastructure: “We’ve fulfilled our commitment. The first and main shipment arrived in late March. This will support researchers and AI startups for at least the next two years.”
Afshin also pointed to upcoming contracts with large corporations to boost AI market demand through tax-credit-backed investment in local startups and universities.
