Failed Talks Prolong Gold Retailers' Strike In Iran

Talks between government representatives and security agencies aimed at resolving the ongoing strike by gold retailers in Tehran have failed to find a solution.

As of Wednesday, the widespread strike has entered its fifth day, with gold shops remaining closed in key cities such as Tehran, Mashhad, Karaj and Tabriz, protesting the government's tax policies affecting the gold sector.

Last week, the Tax Affairs Organization issued a statement warning about the obligation for gold jewelers to issue electronic invoices in a comprehensive system.

Subsequent to the announcement, news of a purported 25% tax on gold and jewelry sales circulated but was promptly denied.

After almost a week of strikes and protests, Ehsan Khandouzi, the Minister of Economy, labeled reactions to the government's new tax policies in the gold sector as "false news" and promised resolution in the coming days.

On Tuesday, information reached Iran International revealing that security agencies in Tehran are urging the reopening of gold trade units. However, market activists remain resolute in their determination to continue the strike until the end of the week.

Yusef Taqizadeh, the head of the Gold and Jewelry Union in Mashhad, reported on Tuesday that the government has temporarily reversed its decision to register the information of gold sellers and buyers in the comprehensive trade system. In response, Taqizadeh called for the cancellation of the strike in Mashhad and the reopening of gold shops by the shopkeepers.