The authorities in Iran prohibit the importation of the latest iPhone devices (14 and 15) but allow the introduction of the older models under very restrictive conditions (tourists also have to register their iPhones with the authorities). 

Because of the restrictions and because of the desire of Iranians to purchase the iPhone, a flourishing parallel market has developed with prices ranging from $360 for a refurbished device to over $1000 and sometimes $2000 for a new device. 

According to estimates, the import of iPhones to Iran is valued at more than 1 billion dollars per year.
 
A local company in Tehran started in 2022 to advertise the sale of iPhones and had great success, including advertisements featuring local celebrities. According to estimates, within a year the company sold iPhones and netted $36 million in its coffers.
 
At one point the stock of iPhones ran out and left many customers with their money gone. 

The CEO of the company fled Iran leaving behind disappointed customers and millions of dollars he owes them.