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Beyond sanctions: Unpacking growth generators for Iranian small business

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  • Cheratian, Iman
  • Goltabar, Saleh

Abstract

The study investigates how international sanctions affect sales growth in Iranian small businesses. It finds sanctions hurt sales, while access to external financing, technology, managerial education, and new employment helps businesses grow. Interestingly, the challenges of an aging firms and staff adjustments also hurt sales growth. Finally, the study suggests that firms that have received financing and benefited from required technology and managerial education may have mitigated the negative impacts of international sanctions on their growth. However, the adverse effects of sanctions on growth are more pronounced for firms facing obstacles in accessing external finance.

Suggested Citation

  • Cheratian, Iman & Goltabar, Saleh, 2026. "Beyond sanctions: Unpacking growth generators for Iranian small business," Journal of Policy Modeling, Elsevier, vol. 48(2), pages 379-397.
    • Handle: RePEc:eee:jpolmo:v:48:y:2026:i:2:p:379-397
    DOI: 10.1016/j.jpolmod.2025.07.004
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    JEL classification:

    • O14 - Economic Development, Innovation, Technological Change, and Growth - - Economic Development - - - Industrialization; Manufacturing and Service Industries; Choice of Technology

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