Türkiye lifts ban on import of Syrian goods

Türkiye has lifted restrictions on imports of products from Syria, said Mazen Alloush, Director of Relations at the Syrian General Authority for Land and Sea Ports.

He made the remarks after discussions with Türkiye’s Ministry of Trade, Caliber.Az reports, citing Syrian media.

Türkiye and Syria, under the new Syrian administration, have agreed to re-evaluate customs tariffs for certain products and to start negotiations to re-enact a free trade agreement suspended in 2011, when war began in Syria, Alloush said.

It is crucial to point out that recent developments indicate a significant shift in trade relations between Türkiye and Syria, particularly concerning the import of Syrian goods into Türkiye. Following the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad, Turkish companies are actively pursuing opportunities in Syria, anticipating a substantial increase in trade volume. 

In December 2024, Turkish exports to Syria rose by 20%, with machinery, construction materials, and agricultural products experiencing notable growth. This upward trend continued into January 2025, with exports increasing by more than 38%.

In January 2025, Türkiye and Syria agreed to reevaluate customs tariffs, aiming to enhance economic collaboration and support Syria's recovery. This agreement includes the reduction of customs duties on 269 Turkish products, such as food items, iron and steel, and hygiene products. The revised tariffs are expected to facilitate smoother trade flows and benefit Turkish exporters.

By Khagan Isayev