Syria cuts tariffs on 269 Turkish products, talks free trade agreement

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
27 Jan 2025 16:25

Both nations also agreed to initiate negotiations to reinstate the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which had been suspended in 2011 when the crisis in Syria began.

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People pass by street vendors displaying goods for sale in the main square of Hama, Syria, Sunday, Jan. 26, 2025 (AP Photo/Khalil Hamra)

In a significant step towards rebuilding economic relations, Syria has decided to lower tariffs on nearly 270 products imported from Turkey. Trade Minister Omer Bolat announced the development during an event in Ankara on Monday.

"As of this week, Syria has decided to reduce customs duties on 269 products that are prominent in our exports to this country, including food such as chicken eggs, flour, corn, milk and cream, some iron and steel, and hygiene products," Bolat stated.

This decision follows discussions in Damascus last week where officials from both countries agreed to reassess customs duties. Talks focused on strengthening economic and trade ties, with an emphasis on addressing the recent tariff system introduced by Syria. Earlier reports indicated that Syria had increased duties by 300% to 500%, causing significant disruptions at border crossings as long truck lines formed.

The Turkish Trade Ministry clarified that the newly implemented tariff system, effective January 11, was applied universally and was not targeted at Turkish goods. "There is absolutely no situation that is being presented as a decision taken against Turkey; it is baseless," Bolat stated.

During the meetings, both nations also agreed to initiate negotiations to reinstate the Free Trade Agreement (FTA), which had been suspended in 2011 when the crisis in Syria began. Officials expressed optimism about establishing a broader economic partnership to aid Syria's reconstruction and Türkiye's trade growth.

Trade Opportunities and Post-War Prospects

Turkey, a long-time supporter of opposition forces that recently ousted Bashar al-Assad, has pledged its commitment to aid Syria's rebuilding process. Turkish officials are optimistic that bilateral trade could soon reach $10 billion.

Before the civil war, trade volume between the two countries peaked at $2.3 billion in 2010 but collapsed to $565 million by 2012 as Syria's economy crumbled. Although trade has gradually improved over the years, pre-war levels have yet to be restored. In 2024, Turkey's exports to Syria, including wheat, iron, steel, and cement, totaled approximately $2 billion, according to data from the Turkish Statistical Institute.

Bolat also revealed that he recently held a video meeting with Syria’s Economy and Foreign Trade Minister, Basil Abdul Hannan. "We expect reciprocal visits to take place once the institutions in Syria settle in," he added.

Erdogan's Ambitions

Turkey's ambitions extend beyond trade, with reconstruction and regional influence as central goals. According to reports, Turkish builders are evaluating large-scale construction projects in cities like Aleppo, and the country is positioning itself as a key player in Syria’s rebuilding efforts. Officials see these developments as a way to solidify Turkey's geopolitical standing while addressing economic challenges.

However, challenges remain, particularly regarding the US-backed Kurdish forces in Syria. Ankara continues to push for the disbandment of these groups, which it views as security threats, complicating negotiations with Western powers. Despite these tensions, Turkey's is actively seeking financial backing from Gulf nations to fund reconstruction projects, reinforcing its strategic role in shaping Syria’s future.