Table of Contents
Introduction
You can buy Chromite ore from Iran — and it’s more accessible than most people realize. If you’re sourcing for industrial use, metallurgy, or trading, Iran offers one of the most overlooked but promising markets for high-grade Chromite. The key is knowing how to navigate it safely, efficiently, and legally.
I’ve worked with raw material buyers and exporters across several markets, and Iran always sparks interest — mostly because it’s rich in Chromite, but not well understood. This guide is here to clear that up. We’ll go over what makes Iran a viable source, what the buying process looks like, how to vet suppliers, and what to expect in terms of logistics, regulations, and risk.
There are definitely challenges — international sanctions, payment methods, and trust-building are top of the list. But if you’re prepared and know what you’re doing, you can buy directly from reliable Iranian miners and exporters with solid quality and competitive pricing.
Here’s what we’ll cover:
- Why Iran? (supply, grades, pricing)
- How to find trustworthy suppliers
- What to check before committing (sampling, specs, certifications)
- How to handle logistics, customs, and payment
- Key red flags to avoid
By the end, you’ll know exactly how to buy Chromite ore from Iran without wasting time or money.
Is Iran a Good Source for Chromite Ore?
Yes — Iran is a viable and often undervalued source of chromite ore for seasoned buyers. While it may not dominate global headlines like South Africa or Kazakhstan, it quietly supplies consistent volumes to regional and niche markets — and offers key advantages to traders and manufacturers who know how to navigate the terrain.
Resource Depth
Iran’s yearly chrome ore export capacity surpasses 100,000 tons, primarily sourced from mines in Kerman, Sistan-Baluchestan, and Hormozgan. Mines range from small-scale operations to larger government-licensed producers, offering a mix of lump and fine material suitable for ferrochrome production and refractory use.
Ore Quality
Iranian chromite typically tests between 40–60% Cr₂O₃, depending on the mine. The material is generally low in silica and phosphorus, which appeals to stainless steel and ferroalloy manufacturers. If you’re sourcing for smelting, you’ll want to review the full chemical analysis — including FeO:Cr₂O₃ ratios and LOI (loss on ignition) — which many Iranian exporters can provide upon request.
Commercial Terms
Pricing is where Iran becomes interesting. Due to relatively low domestic demand and surplus capacity, Iranian suppliers often offer competitive CIF or FOB quotes — especially for bulk orders. However, payment options are limited. Most sellers only accept T/T payments, typically with a 30–50% advance and the balance against scanned shipping documents.
Buyers often use trusted freight forwarders or Dubai-based intermediaries to reduce risk. Working directly with miners is possible, but it requires proper due diligence and a reliable inspection process before loading.
Shipping and Proximity
For buyers in Asia, the Middle East, and Eastern Europe, Iran’s geographic position is a logistical plus. Chromite is typically trucked to Bandar Abbas or Chabahar Port for bulk loading. Internal rail is also an option, though less common due to bottlenecks.
Risks to Manage
Iran’s mining sector is legit — but fragmented. You’ll need to verify:
- Mining licenses and export rights
- Assay reports from trusted labs
- Whether the supplier can meet tonnage requirements over time
And of course, sanctions and banking are a factor. Use trade intermediaries familiar with the region or registered UAE-based companies to streamline payment and customs handling.
How to Find Reliable Chromite Suppliers in Iran?
1. Look for Licensed Exporters with a Track Record
Start with companies that are officially registered with Iran’s Ministry of Industry, Mine and Trade (IMIDRO). These suppliers will typically have:
- A valid mining license
- An export permit
- Documented shipments to other countries (ask for BLs or packing lists)
If a company claims to be a “direct miner,” ask for photos or videos from the site, assay reports stamped by a third-party lab (preferably SGS or a recognized local lab), and a list of past export destinations.
2. Use Trusted Intermediaries
Because many Iranian suppliers have trouble receiving payments directly, experienced traders often go through UAE firms that already have working relationships on the ground. These intermediaries usually:
- Handle communication and negotiation
- Translate assay results and technical data
- Offer some level of payment protection
- Consolidate shipments from multiple sources if needed
Note that your final price might exceed the Iranian market price due to trader profits (at least $20-30 per ton).
3. Verify Everything — and Get Samples First
Always request:
- A recent SGS or equivalent assay of the specific lot being offered
- Photos or videos of the stockpile with a timestamp
- A sample (20–50 kg) sent to your lab, or test it at an inspection facility in Bandar Abbas before shipment
This may add a week to the process, but it’s far better than discovering a quality mismatch after 1,000 MT is already en route.
If you don’t have a trusted contact in Iran, consider supplying from a local exporter agency who understands the mining regions and export process. Some firms — like Iran Chromite Group — specialize in bridging the gap between mine sites and international buyers. They help verify material, arrange third-party testing, and oversee loading at ports like Bandar Abbas. It’s a smart move that can save you from costly mistakes, especially on first-time deals.
What Are The Standard Sales Terms for Chromite Exports from Iran?
Payment Is Done via Exchangers — Not Banks
Iranian exporters can’t receive international payments directly through banks due to sanctions. Instead, most deals are done through licensed exchangers (sarrafis), typically based in Dubai, Istanbul, or Shenzhen.
Here’s the usual flow:
- You send funds (in USD, RMB, AED) to the exchanger’s offshore account.
- The exchanger pays the Iranian seller in rials or hard currency inside Iran.
- Most suppliers request 30–50% advance, with the rest paid after loading or against BL scan.
This is completely normal in Iran’s mineral trade and widely used. That said, work only with reputable exchangers, preferably recommended by trusted agents or companies like Iran Chromite Group.
Behind the Scenes: One-Time Commercial Cards
Many exporters in Iran use temporary commercial cards (one-time-use business licenses) to handle exports. These are often issued in the name of small companies or individuals, allowing them to avoid high tax burdens or bypass banking restrictions.
Additionally, sellers must deal with (currency commitment obligations), which legally require them to return foreign currency proceeds to the Central Bank of Iran (CBI). Since this process can be bureaucratic and costly, many exporters use third-party commercial cards to avoid long-term tax exposure or penalties.
What this means for buyers:
- Don’t be surprised if the exporter name on the documents changes or is different from the company you’re negotiating with.
- It’s not necessarily a red flag — but make sure all paperwork still matches your sales agreement.
- Request BLs, invoices, and packing lists in advance to review before shipment.
Quality Checks Are Usually Done Inside Iran
Buyers typically request pre-shipment inspections, either at the mine, warehouse, or port. Third-party labs like SGS Iran, Kahroba, or Amitis are commonly used.
Typical services include:
- Chemical composition: Cr₂O₃, SiO₂, FeO, LOI
- Moisture levels
- Size grading (sieve analysis)
- Loading supervision
These labs operate across major chromite-exporting regions, and reports are usually ready within 3–5 working days.
Shipping Terms: FOB Bandar Abbas or CFR China
Chromite is mostly exported from Bandar Abbas, either in containers (for fines) or bulk (for lump ore). Sellers may quote FOB, or offer CFR pricing for ports like Lianyungang, Tianjin, or Qingdao.
Shipping options include:
- IRISL (Islamic Republic of Iran Shipping Lines)
- Regional routes via Jebel Ali (UAE) or Karachi (Pakistan) as transit hubs
Transit time to China is typically 20–30 days, depending on routing.
Documentation & Workflow
A typical deal includes:
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Certificate of Origin
- Assay Report (SGS or equivalent)
- Bill of Lading (original or telex release)
The full cycle — from sample approval to shipment — usually takes 2 to 3 weeks, assuming no banking or customs delays.
Bottom line:
Chromite exports from Iran don’t follow a textbook model, but they do work — if you understand the real rules. Once you’re familiar with exchangers, inspection routines, and commercial license structures, you can trade confidently in this underutilized but competitive market.
What Smart Chromite Buyers Double-Check Before Closing a Deal?
Even experienced buyers can make mistakes when sourcing from a complex market like Iran. Between payment workarounds, quality variations, and inconsistent documentation, the smartest players are the ones who pause and verify before the deal is locked in.
Here’s what the pros always double-check:
1. The Cr₂O₃ Grade Is Real — Not Just on Paper
It’s common to see offers claiming 44%+ Cr₂O₃, but without third-party testing, it’s just numbers on a PDF. Smart buyers:
- Request a sealed sample (20–50 kg) from the exact lot
- Cross-check assay reports from SGS or a trusted lab
- Ask for recent test dates, not recycled reports from last season
If the seller hesitates to provide this, it’s a red flag — even if the pricing looks attractive.
2. The Commercial Documents Match the Supplier
As mentioned earlier, many Iranian exporters use temporary commercial cards to avoid currency obligations. That’s normal — but what you don’t want is:
- A mismatch between the supplier’s name, the contract, and the export documents
- A situation where your buyer in China can’t clear the cargo because of unknown shipper details
Smart buyers review draft documents (Invoice, BL, Certificate of Origin) before shipment is booked.
3. Payment Is T/T — But Structured Safely
Since LCs are off the table, deals are paid via T/T to offshore exchangers. But a trusted exchanger or agent will:
- Provide a payment contract or confirmation email
- Release the second payment only after BL scan or loading photos
- Sometimes hold the full amount in escrow-like setups (if both parties agree)
Never send 100% upfront unless you’re working with a long-term partner who has already delivered.
4. Loading, Packing & Shipping Are Verified
Some chromite is shipped in bulk; some in jumbo bags in containers. Smart buyers ask:
- Who supervises loading? (Third-party inspection or the seller?)
- Are there photos or videos of container sealing?
- Is the shipment booked with IRISL, or via a transshipment port like Jebel Ali?
These details can impact both the cost and the customs clearance process at destination.
5. Timing & Port Delays Are Factored In
Bandar Abbas is a busy port. Customs, container shortages, or public holidays can delay shipments by 3–7 days. Always:
- Build in buffer time
- Get ETD/ETA updates from the freight forwarder (not just the seller)
- Clarify who’s responsible for demurrage if delays occur
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the typical Cr₂O₃ grade of Iranian chromite ore?
It usually ranges from 38% to 60% Cr₂O₃, depending on the region and mine.
Do Iranian suppliers accept LC (Letter of Credit)?
No. because of banking sanctions and currency control regulations, LCs are not used. Almost all transactions are done via T/T through licensed exchangers, usually based in Dubai, Istanbul, or China.
What’s the most common port for chromite exports from Iran?
Bandar Abbas is the primary port used for both container and bulk shipments. Some deals also route through Chabahar, though less frequently. Exporters may quote FOB Bandar Abbas or CFR main China ports like Lianyungang, Qingdao, or Tianjin.