A Comparative Analysis of the National Iranian Oil Company (NIOC) Articles of Association during 1954-1978: Proposing a Number of Principles of the New Articles of Association

National Iranian Oil Company as the second largest oil company in the world and the biggest business complex of Iran has an undeniable importance in Iran, and its activities and management have significant impact on economic and political spheres of the country. The issue of reforming the NIOC articles of association has been a matter of discussion for years in the legislative and administration departments. The stated reasons could be the separation of state duties from the company duties, defining company’s scope of work, omission of additional advantages and adjustment with the new upstream legislations. This study is an attempt to answer the question of “what are the features and principles of a desirable NIOC articles of association?” This question is dealt with by analyzing the past NIOC articles of association as well as examining the selected similar articles of association from National Oil Companies world-wide. Based on this analysis, the acts such as concentration of NIOC on company duties and administrative affairs, not being involved in government affairs and subsequently submission of all the responsibilities and authorizations related to conservation, controlling and supervision on upstream activities to The Ministry of Petroleum are suggested to the National Iranian Oil Company. Considering the professional and business essence of NIOC responsibilities, the activities of the company must be performed in a competitive context with no specific exclusive advantage. More specifically, NIOC can succeed in a competitive environment only under the circumstances of facing the risks inherent in its activities.