Overview

Geography
Iran is one of the largest countries in the Middle East with an area of 1.6 million km². It is situated between Turkey, its gateway to Europe to the west, and Pakistan, its gateway to Asia and China to the east. To the north, Iran has access to the Caspian Sea, while most of its southern border spans the Persian Gulf and the Sea of Oman, which provide the country with its main access to international waters. Iran’s strategic location has created an economically and geopolitically important advantage for the country.

Demography
With approximately 70 million inhabitants, Iran has one of the largest populations in the region. 62% of the population is under the age of 30. The population of Iran experienced a rapid increase in the 1980’s, resulting in a baby-boom generation who are now reaching their twenties. Approximately 2 million people are now turning 20 every year, entering a production and consumption age. These age groups will be joining the workforce and will draw rising disposable income which will boost national consumption to an even higher rate in the coming years.

Iran's population is well-educated with literacy rates rising from 55% in 1980 to 85% in 2006. In 2006, there were 2.39 million university students in total and 354,000 graduated in that year. 65% of these university students are currently women.

For more information about Iran click on the links below:

Economy

Liberalisation and Privatisation

Tehran Stock Exchange