Iran has permitted commercial ships from China, India, Iraq, and Qatar to transit the Strait of Hormuz without passage restrictions. Iranian officials stated the move toward Chinese vessels aims to build diplomatic ties and gain political backing from Beijing. Iran continues to levy transit fees on Chinese and Indian vessels while allowing Qatari ships free passage.
Iran has exempted commercial vessels from China, India, Iraq, and Qatar from transit restrictions in the Strait of Hormuz, according to a senior Iranian lawmaker. Amir Hayat Moghadam stated that the exemptions were granted based on mutual interests and strategic considerations. Tehran is charging transit fees to Chinese and Indian vessels, while Qatari ships are allowed to transit without payment.
Gulftainer's shipping arm GT Lines has upgraded its Khorfakkan China Express (KCX1) service effective November 2, 2026. Operated with Chinese partners ZHONG GU, SEA LEGEND, and NINGBO OCEAN, the five-vessel service runs on a 10-day sailing frequency to streamline trade between China and the UAE.
Exports to Iraq from six major trading partners fell 29% year-on-year to $23.7 billion in the first half of 2026, according to customs data cited by economist Manar Al-Obaidi. Shipments from the UAE fell 25% to $10.6 billion, while Chinese exports dropped 42% to $5.2 billion. The sharpest contractions occurred in capital and investment goods, while consumer and food items proved more resilient.
Policy updates, China–UAE business news and industry insights, delivered to your inbox.
Membership
Tell us about your experience and connection to UAE–China business. UECN assesses your application and offers the right membership category — fees are shared privately with your offer.
We send you a one-time sign-in link — your answers are saved as you go.
