MP Highlights 2.5-Year Delay in Iran's AI Law Approval at INOTEX 2026

During a specialized panel on emerging technology governance at the Iran International Innovation & Technology Exhibition (INOTEX), Taheri addressed the widening gap between rapid technological advancements and traditional legislative processes. According to the INOTEX 2026 News Center, the delay caused Iran to miss the opportunity to be among the first 30 nations to establish an AI regulatory framework, as the global count has now reached 110.

Key legislative milestones and governance challenges highlighted by the MP include:

• Data Governance (Davam Law): Established a foundational framework for national data management, subsequently referenced in 47 articles of the 7th Development Plan to enable data-driven governance across sectors.
• Knowledge-Based Production Leap: A comprehensive law designed to stimulate growth in the knowledge-based ecosystem, which is now entering its maturity phase with significant untapped potential in financial support and facilitation.
• Microelectronics Independence: Identified as a critical bottleneck, with legislative efforts focused on reducing supply chain dependencies, particularly in the automotive and industrial sectors.
• AI Regulatory Framework: Originally projected to take three months, the approval process extended to 2.5 years due to bureaucratic hurdles and shifts in government administration, highlighting the need for more agile legislative mechanisms.

Taheri concluded by stressing that while Iran possesses significant national capacities and motivated human capital, translating these assets into scientific and technological leadership requires streamlined, participatory, and forward-looking governance models.

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