Using digital platforms in developing Iran’s exports to Russia: A case study of herbal medicines

Background: Iranian herbal medicines have significant export potential to the Russian market, yet face structural barriers including information asymmetry, lack of digital trust, and regulatory complexities.Aims: This study evaluates the role of electronic platforms in overcoming these challenges.Methodology: Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected from ۳۶ stakeholders via a structured questionnaire and from ۱۴ experts through in-depth interviews.Findings: Statistical analysis using SPSS revealed that while Russian market demand is high (mean= ۴.۱/۵), traditional export processes remain inefficient due to legal barriers (mean= ۲.۹/۵) and weak after‑sales services (mean= ۲.۴۴/۵). The correlation between platform adoption and export success is strong and positive (r= ۰.۷۲, P< ۰.۰۰۱), while legal barriers have a significant negative relationship with success (r= -۰.۴۵). Digital trust (r= ۰.۶۵) and after‑sales support (r= ۰.۶۱) are also key predictors. Based on expert estimates, digital platforms can reduce buyer discovery time by ~۸۵%, intermediation costs by ~۶۰%, and customs clearance time by ~۷۰%. Also, findings indicate that in the Iran‑Russia context, alignment of digital standards and document transparency are primary prerequisites for building trust. Contrary to expectations, simple and well‑integrated platforms are more effective than complex technologies like blockchain at the current stage.Conclusion: The study concludes that transitioning from traditional methods to an integrated digital ecosystem is not merely an option but a strategic necessity for sustainable export development.

کلیدواژه ها:

digital structural alignment ، Digital platforms ، Export ، herbal medicines ، Russian Market