Türkiye’s Van sees $80M economic boost from 157,000 Iranian tourists in Q1

In the first three months of this year, Van has welcomed 157,000 Iranian tourists, contributing approximately $80 million to the local economy.

Fevzi Celiktas, vice president of the Van Chamber of Commerce and Industry (TSO), stated that, in addition to using the Kapikoy Border Gate, Iranian tourists have also started taking the Tehran-Van train, which resumed service after a five-year hiatus.

Celiktas discussed the impact of the ongoing influx of Iranian tourists on the region.

The Van TSO reported a noticeable increase in the number of Iranian tourists visiting the city during the Shopping Fest and Nevruz holidays compared to last year.

Impact of Tehran-Van train on tourism

Celiktas noted that the number of Iranian tourists visiting Van in the first three months of this year reached 157,000, with their economic contribution totaling approximately $80 million. He pointed out that the resumption of Tehran-Van train services after five years was a key factor behind the significant increase in tourist numbers.

Despite Nevruz coinciding with Ramadan and ongoing economic challenges in Iran, Celiktas emphasized that the number of tourists has still risen. He also mentioned that the added value from tourism has positively impacted various sectors, including accommodation, food and beverage, logistics, and retail.

$80 million economic boost

Celiktas highlighted that Iranian tourists continue to favor Van. However, he stressed that if congestion at border crossings were reduced, and their passage made more efficient and quicker, the city could see even greater benefits from these visits.

“If we can ensure smoother and faster border crossings for Iranian tourists, the economic impact would be even higher. Assuming each tourist spends an average of $500, we estimate that $80 million has been injected into the local economy. This has created widespread benefits for sectors such as accommodation, logistics, food and beverage, and retail. It has also improved the morale and motivation of local business owners. Our shopkeepers are smiling,” he said.

The steady influx of Iranian tourists continues to provide a significant economic boost to Van, benefiting multiple sectors and contributing to the overall growth of the local economy.