Iran's nationwide internet blackout has inflicted significant economic losses, severely disrupting online businesses and digital livelihoods.
Following the escalation of protests in dozens of cities, the Iranian government on Jan. 8 implemented measures to suspend international internet connectivity and block international phone calls.
The local economy suffered substantial damage during the period of internet disconnection.
"We have clients who specialize in attracting international patients to Iran's health sector. They handle all aspects of their medical travel -- from consultation and scheduling to logistics and coordination. However, due to the internet blackout, these operations have been halted entirely," said Mohammad Nematzadeh, an IT manager.
Over the past decade, high unemployment has remained a persistent challenge for Iran's economy. In response, many young Iranians have increasingly turned to social media and digital platforms to establish online enterprises and generate income. However, internet restrictions have already cost this rapidly expanding digital sector hundreds of millions of dollars per day.
"According to government statistics, the daily revenue for Iran's internet-based businesses reached 36 million dollars in 2022. That figure has now grown to more than 80 million dollars per day, demonstrating the rapid expansion of the digital economy," Nematzadeh said.
In Iran, communications and cyberspace policies are shaped through a coordinated process involving multiple government institutions, including the Supreme Cyberspace Council, which brings together representatives from across the state.
Iran's Internet shutdown inflicts economic losses
