Sanctions were reimposed on Iran in September 2025 after the triggering of the snapback mechanism under the Joint Comprehensive Plan of Action (JCPOA), in response to Iran’s non-compliance with its nuclear obligations. The relevant sanctions are set out in UN Security Council (UNSC) resolutions 1737 (2006), 1747 (2007), 1803 (2008) and 1929 (2010).
United Nations Sanctions (Iran) Regulations 2025
United Nations Sanctions (Iran) Regulations 2025 (SL 2025/222) Contents – New Zealand Legislation(external link) came into force on 18 October 2025. These regulations apply to all persons inside New Zealand and to New Zealand citizens outside New Zealand.
A person breaching the sanctions regulations could be liable for up to 12 months imprisonment or a fine of up to $10,000. A company breaching the sanctions regulations could be liable for a fine of up to $100,000.
Some of the key restrictions in the sanctions regulations are outlined below. The following list is a summary only and is not comprehensive. We recommend that you look at the detailed regulations and obtain independent legal advice when making decisions about dealings with Iran.
Restrictions and obligations introduced by the Regulations include:
- Prohibitions on certain dealings related to designated persons;
- A duty to exercise vigilance when doing business with entities incorporated in Iran or subject to its jurisdiction;
- A compulsory business registration scheme (which will enter into force on 1 February 2026);
- A requirement to keep business records for at least seven years;
- Import, export and procurement bans relating to nuclear weapon, missile or enrichment-related goods, and to arms;
More detailed guidance is available here [PDF, 321 KB] and at the following page: Doing business with Iran