URUMIEH, West Azarbaijan Prov. -- Head of West Azarbaijan Province Commerce Department Ali Safarzadeh said here on Saturday, goods worth $30.8 million were exported from the province over the first half of current Iranian year, starting March 21.

Safarzadeh told IRNA, "Some $17.63 million worth of goods were exported via the border markets, while those exported via provincial customs departments amounted to $13.18 million.

He added that a 56 percent boost in the export of goods via border markets is observed compared to the similar period last year.

Safarzadeh attributed the 56 percent boost to the facilities provided by the Commerce Ministry through clarification of the export/import regulations.

According to the official, agricultural products including apple, honey and tomato, industrial goods such as machine-woven carpet, blanket and floor mats, various electrical samovars, and mineral products comprising plaster, cement, brick, mosaic and various decorative stones are among the exports.

"To encourage exporters to realize the goals set in connection with export, the exemplary exporters from the province will be awarded with prizes," he added.

Given that West Azarbaijan province is adjacent to Turkey, Iraq and the Autonomous Nakhichevan Republic, it is of great significance in view of its economic status and trade promotion.

Besides, three active customs departments in Bazargan, Sanam Bolaghi in Maku and Sarv in Urumieh, seven common border markets add to the decisive role of West Azarbaijan Province in the foreign trade.