Forex Trading Iran

The Legal Status of Forex Trading in Iran

Forex trading in Iran exists in a legal gray area. The Central Bank of Iran (CBI), the primary regulatory authority for financial activities, has not explicitly classified forex trading as legal or illegal. However, the CBI imposes strict regulations on currency exchange and foreign transactions to stabilize the Iranian rial (IRR) and manage economic challenges, such as inflation and capital flight. According to some sources, forex trading is permitted under specific conditions, provided traders use licensed brokers and comply with national regulations.

Despite this, unauthorized forex trading—particularly through unregulated brokers or unofficial channels—is considered illegal. In 2011, the Tehran Stock Exchange Organization declared forex trading illegal to prevent currency outflows and protect the economy. This decision was driven by concerns over capital flight, currency instability, and widespread fraud in the global forex market. Violators of these regulations may face penalties, including fines or imprisonment, especially if they engage in speculative trading or operate as unlicensed brokers.