Iran ranks 6th in nanotech, expands to quantum research
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In March, Iranian Vice President for Scientific Development Hossein Afshin announced that three scientific laboratories and several dedicated quantum research centers would be launched on the same month.
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An Iranian-made nano-fiber wound dressing infused with oak extract—where tradition meets cutting-edge healing (@narinamk1)
Iran has reached a significant milestone in nanotechnology, now ranking sixth globally in the number of scientific publications in the field, according to Emad Ahmadvand, Secretary of Iran's General Directorate of Nanotechnology. The announcement reflects Iran's broader strategy to transition from scientific research to economic and industrial implementation of advanced technologies.
"On the whole, our country has gone from scientific-level development through technological and business development to economic one. Hopefully, the next step will focus on socio-economic implementation. Since the beginning of the program, we have climbed from 51st place in the world to the sixth place, based on the number of scientific publications in the nanotechnology area," Ahmadvand was quoted as saying by the Tasnim news agency.
Iran's nanotech sector has also seen impressive commercial growth. "According to statistics, Iran exports its nanotechnology products to 49 countries," he added. In 2023 alone, Iran's nanotech exports surpassed $145 million, with major markets including Iraq, Syria, India, China, and Türkiye. According to national data, sales of nano-based products and services grew 104 percent over the past year.
Beyond nanotechnology, Iran is rapidly expanding its investments in quantum technology, which officials describe as essential for maintaining strategic and scientific competitiveness in the coming decades.
In March, Iranian Vice President for Scientific Development Hossein Afshin announced that three scientific laboratories and several dedicated quantum research centers would be launched that same month.
"The development of these centers would be closely supervised by Iranian authorities," he stated, adding: "Quantum technology development is one of the most important areas for Iran's scientific progress."
Read more: How Iran tech industry thrived despite sanctions: Modern Diplomacy
President Masoud Pezeshkian has also emphasized the need to institutionalize and accelerate quantum research. Earlier in March, he instructed the responsible authorities to prepare and submit a comprehensive national document on quantum technology development within two months. The plan is expected to address critical sectors such as communications, defense, trade, and national security.
