Iran moves to gain control of Russian Astrakhan port

An Iranian company has offered to buy out the remaining shares in Russia’s Astrakhan port, potentially giving Iran full control of the strategic logistics hub on the Caspian Sea, Kommersant reported on Monday.

Nasim Bahr Kish, which already holds a 53% stake in the port, has proposed purchasing additional ordinary and preferred shares for 437.5 million roubles ($4.9 million).

The acquisition is backed by a guarantee from a financial entity linked to Iran’s Bank Melli.

Other Iranian shareholders include Fanavaran Darya Gostar Jonob Arvand and state-controlled IRISL, while Russian defense conglomerate Rostec holds 25.5%.

The port is a key point in the North–South Transport Corridor, with over 90% of its cargo flow linked to trade with Iran, according to local officials.

N.Tebrizli