Iran Khodro Industrial Group has exported over 6,000 vehicles to international markets in the first half of the current Iranian year (started March 21), surpassing the car manufacturer’s export record of last year.
IKCO’s head of Export and International Department, Saeed Tafazzoli, said the largest part of Iran Khodro’s export in the current Iranian year (starting March 21) has gone to Iraq due to the advantage of the company's presence in the neighboring Middle Eastern country, according to the company's Public Relations Department.
“During this period, our exports grew considerably in comparison with the previous year. About 2% of our production have been exported in the current year,” he added.
“Our main foreign site is located in Iraq, which is operating at full capacity. Other foreign bases are also operating regularly in Venezuela and Senegal,” he said.
Tafazzoli also noted that IKCO’s after-sales services have expanded in target countries in proportion with its export growth.
"The largest after-sales services' networks are in Iraq, Russia and Syria, which have largely imported IKCO’s vehicles," he said.
"About 150 active dealers are offering IKCO’s services in the international market.”
Referring to international standards required for foreign markets, the official said Iran Khodro’s products already enjoy Euro 4 standards but since the company’s main target market is CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) countries, "we are seeking to gain Euro 5 standards for our products.”
Tafazzoli noted that the global markets are divided into the three categories of current, potential and undeveloped markets.
"The first category includes Iraq, Syria, North Africa, CIS countries and Venezuela. The second market is in eastern Europe with Euro 4 standards, Senegal and Latin American countries, while the third category consists of Persian Gulf countries, Turkey, East Asian and African countries,” he said.
