This study aims to develop a strategic framework for expanding the export of Iranian fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) to Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) markets by identifying prevailing opportunities, obstacles, and development strategies. Methodologically, the research is qualitative in execution and exploratory in nature. The study sample comprised 12 domain experts and executive managers with extensive experience across international marketing, export operations, manufacturing, supply chain management, logistics, finance, customs, and e-commerce. Participants were selected through purposive sampling, with data collection continuing until conceptual saturation was achieved. In-depth, semi-structured interviews served as the primary data collection tool, and the textual data were analyzed following Braun and Clarke’s thematic analysis approach.The findings were structured around three overarching themes: market opportunities, export challenges and barriers, and export development strategies. The results revealed that cultural and religious affinities, geo-economic advantages, the expansion of emerging regional markets, shifting consumer preferences, competitive market voids, and regional preferential trade arrangements constitute the most prominent opportunities. Conversely, financial and foreign exchange risks, restricted cross-border payment mechanisms, logistical inefficiencies, stringent regulatory and standard requirements, inadequate market readiness, country-of-origin (COO) perceptions, intense competitive pressures, information asymmetries, and fragmented distribution networks emerged as critical export bottlenecks. Consequently, achieving sustainable export growth necessitates a paradigm shift from transactional to market-oriented exporting, strategic product and brand localization, collaborative business networking, robust financial and logistics infrastructure, proactive commercial diplomacy, and digital transformation.