A Conversation with Valiollah Seif, Governor of Iran’s Central Bank

On April 14, 2016, the Atlantic Council hosted the Honorable Valiollah Seif for a private roundtable discussion. Mr. Seif, who has served as Governor of the Central Bank of Iran since September of 2013, adressed Iran’s economic and financial reform agenda following the implementation of the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA).

Mr. Seif provided expert insight into the steps that the Central Bank is taking to restore Iran’s economic health, and highlighted the areas where progress is already visible. Some areas where he anticipated significant changes are the following:

  • International credit market access. Mr. Seif cautioned against rapid changes but acknowledged the potential for a more open economy.  

  • Foreign Direct Investment (FDI). Mr Seif presented different sectors where Iran is planning to attract more foreign direct investment..

  • Mr. Seif also discussed how the Central Bank would adjust the Iranian banking system’s accounting standards to comply with international standards.