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Syria’s Transitional Administration has announced a new decree banning the importation of goods from Russia as well as Iran and Israel. This decision comes after the Syrian government had also imposed restrictions on the entry of citizens from Iran and Israel. This ban will be enforced at all land and sea border points in the country.
Russia’s bilateral trade is currently worth about US$1 billion, and is mainly derived from the energy and agricultural sectors. Russia suspended deliveries of wheat to Syria in December following security and payment problems.
The move intensifies tensions in the region, particularly between Syria and these countries, while also affecting international trade. The decision is significant for neighboring countries and global trade, particularly for Türkiye, which has strong trade relations with Syria.
Turkish Airlines announced that from January 23 it will begin operating scheduled flights to Damascus, but will not carry Iranian or Israeli citizens to Syria, as is now required by the new authorities.
Syria has recently witnessed a diverse influx of imported goods entering local markets, with shops in the capital, Damascus, are now filled with various goods, ranging from Turkish bottled water and Saudi food products to chocolate treats like Twix and Snickers, as well as Pepsi and other international brand beverages. The new Syrian regime appears to be making moves to promote ties with the West and to follow Western policies as a reaction against the previous, unpopular al-Bashar regime, which had been supported by Moscow.
To support the economy, the new Syrian interim government has announced the introduction of the US dollar into the country and approved a new set of unified customs tariffs, which will be reduced by 50-60%. The decision to ban Russian, Iranian and Israeli imports, according to the government, is intended to support local producers as part of efforts to boost economic activity and stimulate industry.
The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, stated this month that EU foreign ministers would hold meetings to discuss the possibility of lifting sanctions on Syria. In return, Damascus would be required to follow EU trade policy – including their sanctions regime.
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