Iranian Government Announces Major Expansion of Welfare Card Program and Economic Support Measures
In a significant move to bolster economic resilience and support citizens, the Iranian government has unveiled a substantial enhancement to its welfare card program, alongside a series of targeted measures aimed at stabilizing employment and stimulating private sector growth.
Economic Stability as a Core Priority
Speaking in a televised address, Government Spokeswoman Fatemeh Mahagerani outlined the administration’s comprehensive strategy. She emphasized that the government’s foremost concern is preserving jobs within micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs).
“Any level of subsistence aid will lack the necessary efficacy if we cannot take steps to preserve employment,” Mahagerani stated. “Alongside matters such as livelihood assistance, the country’s main priority is to focus on maintaining employment in these enterprises.”
A Multi-Pronged Approach Through Specialized Task Forces
To address key economic challenges, the government has established several high-level task forces. These include:
- An Energy Task Force, chaired by the Minister of Energy, which is actively working to resolve energy shortages for industries and minimize disruptions to gas supplies.
- A Tax Task Force, operating under the Minister of Economy and the Head of the Tax Administration, to ensure fair treatment of producers and prevent undue pressure on businesses, especially following recent market slowdowns.
- A Liquidity Task Force to tackle financial circulation issues.
- A Foreign Exchange Task Force within the Central Bank, which has recently held productive meetings with economic activists and made positive decisions in this area.
Welfare Card Boost: Higher Limits and New Perks
A central announcement was the major upgrade to the national welfare card system. The credit limit for these cards, linked to the “Gav” bonds, has been increased from 300 million tomans to 500 million tomans, with a 24-month repayment period.
Citizens can obtain these cards through Bank Tejarat, Bank Mellat, and Bank Melli. The cards are connected to major retail outlets, allowing holders to purchase home appliances and durable goods. This initiative is designed to directly address public needs while simultaneously injecting vitality into private sector businesses, which account for approximately 70% of the nation’s employment.
Expanded Credit Facilities to Spur Growth
In a parallel effort to fuel economic activity, the government has also raised the ceilings on various loan facilities:
- Individual loans increased to 200 million tomans (60-month repayment).
- Individual professional category loans raised to 350 million tomans (60-month repayment).
- Employer loans set at 5 billion tomans per employed individual (60-month repayment).
- Loans for knowledge-based and technology companies increased to 900 million tomans (48-month repayment).
- Micro-loans with revised credit assessment criteria up to 350 million tomans.
The government remains committed to recognizing the pivotal role of the private sector. These combined measures are presented as part of a broader effort to navigate economic challenges, support sustainable business growth, and maintain open pathways for citizens and economic activists.