Digital economy | From Fourth Industrial Revolution to postal services role, startups, AI in Iran, worldwide

Pars Today – The rapid pace of technological developments within the framework of the Fourth Industrial Revolution has made the digital economy one of the most important drivers of economic growth, modern governance, and sustainable development—a path that Iran is also following alongside global experiences.

The Fourth Industrial Revolution, by intertwining digital, physical, and biological technologies, has transformed the traditional boundaries of the economy. This shift is no longer just about the introduction of new technologies; it centers on changes in production, distribution, consumption patterns, and even economic regulation. The global economy is moving toward a networked, platform-based, and data-driven structure, with artificial intelligence, the Internet of Things, blockchain, and cloud computing serving as its main pillars.

In this Pars Today news feature, the opportunities and challenges of the digital economy are examined, as outlined below:

Iran on the path to a digital economy: Future and opportunities

Iran’s economy has also shown signs of dynamism in response to this global wave. The growth of startups in sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, digital health, and smart transportation, along with the emergence of Iranian digital platforms, reflects efforts to align with the digital economy.

Experts believe that comprehensive infrastructure development, investment in digital skills training, and the formulation of flexible regulations constitute the three key pillars shaping the future of Iran’s digital economy.

Postal services: A modern infrastructure at the heart of the digital economy

Globally, a recent report by the Universal Postal Union (UPU) shows that postal networks have evolved beyond traditional institutions to become a strategic infrastructure for digital inclusion and the development of online markets.

With over 650,000 post offices worldwide, particularly in underserved areas, postal services have become key points connecting citizens to digital services. According to the report, 71% of postal operators provide e-commerce services, over 70% offer internet access services, and 58% deliver digital financial services—a capacity that can serve as a driving force for small and medium-sized businesses.

Artificial intelligence and knowledge-based companies: Driving localization

The Secretary of the Iran Economic Think Tank has described the development of indigenous artificial intelligence as a strategic necessity and viewed exhibitions of knowledge-based companies as an effective platform for technological synergy.

According to Alireza Vali, Secretary of the Iran Economic Think Tank, many of Iran’s innovations in AI are domestically developed and have been transformed into practical infrastructures—an achievement that can strengthen both the digital economy and the country’s cultural economy.

China’s experience: The growing share of the digital economy in GDP

Global experiences also highlight the significance of the digital economy. China’s National Bureau of Statistics reported that in 2024, the value added by the country’s main digital economy industries reached 14 trillion yuan, accounting for over 10.5% of GDP. This share has increased compared to the previous year, further solidifying the digital economy’s role in China’s sustainable growth.

Overall, the digital economy—whether through platforms, postal networks, artificial intelligence, or cultural and tourism industries—has become a key engine of development in today’s world. With smart governance, Iran is also working to reduce the digital divide and strengthen its innovation ecosystem, a path that could elevate the country’s role from a mere technology consumer to an influential regional player.