ICANN has terminated the registry agreements for six gTLDs, reducing the number of active generic top-level domains (gTLDs) on the internet. Five of these were managed by Asia Green IT System (AGIT), while one was voluntarily relinquished by Kerry Trading Co.
Terminated gTLDs and Reasons
AGIT lost control of .pars, .shia, .tci, .nowruz, and .همراه (.xn–mgbt3dhd) after failing to comply with ICANN’s registry obligations. The company had stopped paying both its back-end provider, CoCCA, and its ICANN fees. Although ICANN had negotiated a confidential settlement agreement with AGIT last August, the company ultimately breached the terms.
Meanwhile, Kerry Trading Co self-terminated .kerrylogistics, a Spec 13 dot-brand, meaning it will not be reassigned to another operator. The company still holds five unused dot-brands, including .kerryhotels and .kerryproperties, though it has not yet decided to discontinue them.
Will These gTLDs Be Resurrected?
The five AGIT-operated gTLDs could be auctioned off if ICANN chooses to redelegate them. However, their strong association with Iran presents legal and cultural sensitivities that may deter potential buyers:
• .shia refers to a major branch of Islam.
• .pars is linked to Persian culture and language.
• .nowruz represents the Persian New Year celebration.
• .tci was originally intended for the Telecommunication Company of Iran but could be repurposed.
• .همراه means “companion” and is associated with an Iranian mobile carrier.
Even if ICANN moves forward with an auction, a sale is not guaranteed. The failed .wed gTLD was put up for auction nearly five years ago with no progress, and .desi has faced a similar fate.
Conclusion
While these terminations mark the end of AGIT’s gTLD management, the domains themselves may yet return—if ICANN finds interested buyers. However, given the history of stalled gTLD auctions and the geopolitical sensitivities involved, these domain extensions could remain dormant for years to come.
News Source:Kevin Murphy，This article does not represent our position.
