According to the IRC Public Relations Office, cargo insurance, one of the oldest and most important lines of insurance, plays a significant role in both domestic and international commerce. However, political, economic, and social developments, together with the increasing complexity of risks, have created a range of challenges for insurers and policyholders.

Focusing on export, import, and domestic-transport cargo insurance, the report examines key concepts, the various types of insurance policies, underwriting and claims-handling procedures, and the relevant regulations and bylaws. It also reviews the performance of the insurance industry in this line in recent years and identifies the principal challenges facing the Iranian market.

Regulatory Ambiguities and Underwriting and Claims-Handling Challenges
According to the study’s findings, regulatory ambiguities, gaps in the existing bylaws, and the incomplete alignment of policy terms and conditions with the evolving needs of the market are among the main challenges affecting cargo insurance. Underwriting and claims-assessment procedures are also influenced by factors including sanctions, exchange-rate volatility, limited access to international experts, and customs- and port-related constraints.

Adopting a practical approach rather than focusing exclusively on theoretical issues, the report seeks to identify the real-world challenges arising between insurers and policyholders and to propose operational solutions that protect the interests of all stakeholders.

Proposed Measures for the Development of Cargo Insurance
The study recommends revising and updating the bylaws of the High Council of Insurance; establishing insurance companies specializing in cargo insurance; creating specialized insurance courts; applying artificial intelligence and blockchain technology to underwriting and claims-handling processes; reviewing existing bylaws; and drafting and adapting new insurance clauses to local conditions.

The report also emphasizes the importance of enhancing the technical expertise of underwriting and claims professionals and increasing policyholders’ and traders’ awareness of their respective duties and obligations.

The study concludes that, despite the political and economic conditions prevailing in the Iranian market, a substantial proportion of the challenges facing cargo insurance can be managed and reduced through legislative and procedural reforms and by improving stakeholders’ awareness. Such measures could contribute to market stability and facilitate the provision of insurance services in this line of business.

Interested parties may obtain the full text of the research report through the IRC website.