The Iranian central bank is reportedly turning a blind eye to exporting companies using cryptocurrencies, including Tether’s $USDT stablecoin and Bitcoin, for cross-border trade payments. According to a report in the Financial Times, the Tehran government has begun supporting alternative payment channels in response to the economic pressure and sanctions imposed by the US during the war.
The Iranian Central Bank has also reportedly eased currency controls and some restrictions on the repatriation of export earnings. Companies are encouraged to bring their foreign currency earnings back to the country “by any means,” and this approach aims to reduce pressure on the existing financial system.
This policy shift is seen as a consequence of Iran’s increased reliance on cryptocurrencies due to its limited access to global payment systems. Dollar-backed stablecoins, such as $USDT, are particularly noteworthy because they offer an alternative to traditional banking channels in international trade.
According to data from the on-chain analytics company TRM Labs, approximately $10 billion worth of crypto assets circulated through Iran in 2025. Chainalysis notes that Iran’s long-standing exclusion from global payment systems has encouraged the use of cryptocurrencies as an alternative payment method in the country.
Iran’s approach to cryptocurrencies stands out as part of its efforts to mitigate the impact of sanctions and international financial restrictions. Bitcoin’s lack of ties to a central authority and $USDT’s dollar-pegged structure offer Iranian companies alternative tools for cross-border transactions.
The new approach shows that cryptocurrencies can be used not only as an investment tool, but also as an alternative payment infrastructure for international trade under geopolitical and financial pressures.
*This is not investment advice.
Leave a Reply
You must be logged in to post a comment.