Background and Aim: The slow pace and failure to achieve economic development goals in the Islamic Republic of Iran، which have been pursued and implemented after the Islamic Revolution and in the form of six development programs، is considered one of the main issues and concerns of the country today. In this regard, the aim of the present study is to explain the structural economic obstacles to the implementation of economic development programs in the Islamic Republic of Iran, focusing on the shadow economy.

Materials and Methods: This research is theoretical and the research method is descriptive-analytical.

Findings: Activities outside the formal economy can be divided into four sectors: household، informal، irregular، and illegal. The shadow economy exists in most countries، especially developing countries. This phenomenon has various effects on the social and economic life of the country's people and can have a negative impact on the stability and economic growth of the country.

Ethical Considerations: In order to organize this research، while observing the authenticity of the texts، honesty and fidelity have been observed.

Conclusion: The shadow economy in Iran is one of the structural economic challenges that acts as one of the main obstacles to achieving the goals of economic policies and development programs. Accordingly، at the end of this research، necessary suggestions in the field of application and studies have been presented.