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Mining and metallurgical projects are among those that require the most sizeable invest-ments undertaken in Iran. One target of the current development plan and the Ministry of Mines and Industries has been to attract foreign investment in mining projects. A survey of world-class mining companies was conducted to determine their expectations and in order to recommend a frame work for Iran aimed at attracting foreign investment This paper exam-ines and reports on the important factors and issues influencing major mining companies’ decision to invest in the mineral sector of Iran, and other developing countries, by extension.