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During the 'Regulations and Policies' panel, private sector representatives criticized increased government pressure on online businesses and a lack of constructive dialogue. The panel was held as part of National E-Commerce Day event.
Criticism of Government Policies
Reza Olfat-Nasab, president of the Virtual Business Association, accused government officials of continuing their 'war' on businesses. He said, "After the 12-day war, today we are at war with government officials in Tehran buildings. Back then they hit and left, but now we are dealing with them every day. If dialogue is established, similar problems can be prevented."
Olfat-Nasab also criticized ongoing challenges faced by platforms, adding: "It is very difficult and exhausting to revisit the topic of internet taxis after 6-7 years. Currently, we are also entangled in issues related to gold, square-meter housing, health, and more."
Calls for Cooperation and Regulatory Reform
Ali Hakim Javadi, president of Nasr Tehran, emphasized the need for collaboration between the government and private sector. He remarked: "Our biggest problem in regulation is the lack of a sandbox. The government must understand that it cannot succeed without private sector assistance."
Morteza Tork Tabrizi, chairman of the board at Tejarat Bank, highlighted banking restrictions affecting businesses. "Banks are highly inclined to sell properties they own because these assets are not beneficial to us. Banks prefer to provide financing. The funds available in banks are limited for various reasons. From the beginning, TechnoTejarat Company has supported startup activities," he explained.
Central Bank's Stance on Business Support
Noshafarin Momen Vaghfi addressed ambiguities in defining the digital economy during the panel. She stressed that the digital economy should not be reduced to cryptocurrency transactions alone but should focus on generating public welfare. She stated, "People’s assets should not be placed under the control of a few businesses without supervision."
Momen Vaghfi announced the formation of a council aimed at developing regulations for innovative financial technologies. She expressed hope for a more transparent and improved environment for digital business activities within the next few months.
She also discussed the blocking of online gold platform gateways during the 12-day war. "The gateway blocking was based on an official decision by the Cabinet," she said. Momen Vaghfi clarified that while entry gateways were closed, exit gateways remained open, allowing businesses to deposit gold bars, access credit lines, and repay money owed to users.
