As global trade routes evolve, Amir Abad Port, located in Mazandaran Province on the southern shores of the Caspian Sea, has emerged as a strategic logistics hub in Iran's international trade network. It plays a vital role in connecting Iran to Central Asia, the Caucasus, and Russia, serving as a key gateway in the North-South Transport Corridor (NSTC).

In this article, we explore why Amir Abad Port is crucial for international logistics, import-export operations, and Iran’s economic development.

1. Strategic Geographical Location

Amir Abad Port is situated near the city of Behshahr in northern Iran and is directly connected to:

•  The Caspian Sea

•  Russia, Kazakhstan, Turkmenistan, and Azerbaijan via maritime routes

•  The North-South Corridor, which connects India to Europe via Iran

This makes the port a key link between the Persian Gulf and Eurasia, reducing shipping time and cost for many trade routes.

2. Multimodal Transport Capabilities

One of Amir Abad Port’s greatest strengths is its multimodal connectivity:

•  Rail connection to the national railway network

•  Highway access for road transport to Tehran and other industrial centers

•  Direct linkage to Incheh Borun border and Bafq–Bandar Abbas railway

This seamless integration allows cargo to move efficiently between sea, rail, and road, making Amir Abad ideal for large-scale logistics operations.

3. Specialized Infrastructure

Amir Abad Port is equipped with:

•  Multipurpose terminals for containers, general cargo, dry bulk, and oil

•  Warehousing and storage facilities

•  Grain silos, especially important for agricultural imports and exports

•  Modern customs clearance systems and bonded zones

Its infrastructure supports the handling of agricultural products, fertilizers, construction materials, and oil derivatives, making it a favorite for Iranian exporters and foreign importers.

4. Role in Agricultural and Food Trade

Mazandaran is one of Iran’s top agricultural provinces, and Amir Abad Port serves as the main maritime outlet for food exports like:

•  Iranian rice

•  Fresh fruits (citrus, kiwi, apples)

•  Dairy and processed food

•  Fertilizers and agri-inputs

For exporters of Iranian rice and agrifood products, Amir Abad Port offers low-cost, fast access to markets across the Caspian region and Eastern Europe.

5. Key Player in the North-South Corridor (NSTC)

Amir Abad is a critical component of the NSTC, a trade corridor that rivals the Suez Canal in cost-effectiveness and time-saving potential. It connects:

•  India (Mumbai) → Iran (Bandar Abbas) → Amir Abad → Russia and Europe

This route cuts shipping time from 45 days (via Suez) to about 20–25 days, dramatically improving efficiency for international logistics companies.

6. Growing Investment and Expansion

The Iranian government continues to invest in Amir Abad Port’s development:

•  Port capacity has surpassed 7.5 million tons annually

•  Plans include increasing container handling, logistics centers, and smart port systems

•  Expansion aligns with Iran’s 2040 vision to make the Caspian Sea a central economic region

Conclusion: Why Amir Abad Port Matters

Amir Abad Port is more than just a regional hub; it’s a strategic gateway for Eurasian trade, supporting Iran’s ambitions to be a central player in global logistics. Its location, infrastructure, and role in agricultural exports and NSTC make it a valuable partner for importers, exporters, and international freight companies.

Are you looking to import Iranian agricultural products through Amir Abad Port?

Contact us today to learn how we can help you manage customs, freight, and logistics with ease.