• 29 Apr, 2026

investment, boost productivity, and end years of economic isolation. However, early implementation faces challenges such as rising prices, inconsistent product quality, and limited competitiveness in several sectors.

Boosting Supply and Reducing Production Costs

According to Abdul‑Rahim Ziyada, President of the Rural Damascus Chamber of Commerce, the current stage requires carefully planned steps to establish a competitive free‑market system. He emphasizes that international experience shows that gradual and organized reform improves efficiency and strengthens consumer confidence.

Key measures include:

·         Facilitating imports and removing seasonal restrictions

·         Eliminating obstacles to foreign truck movement

·         Reducing production and transport costs by revisiting electricity and fuel pricing

·         Opening the energy sector to private investment

·         Improving logistics and transportation systems

·         Providing accessible financing for farmers and industrialists

He also stresses the importance of monetary and financial stability, preventing deficit financing, and promoting transparency and competition.

Price Liberalization and Anti‑Dumping Measures

Engineer Mohammad Ayman Al‑Moulawi, President of the Damascus and Rural Damascus Chamber of Industry, highlights the need for gradual steps to protect both consumers and local industries during the transition.

He calls for:

·         Phased price liberalization

·         Restructuring subsidies to reach those who truly need them

·         Temporary customs duties on imported goods with local alternatives

·         Anti‑dumping measures

·         Exemption of raw materials from customs

·         Support for production costs and transport

He also stresses the need to reform the legislative environment and strengthen the independence of commercial courts.

Developing Financial Tools and Supporting Exports

Al‑Moulawi emphasizes:

·         Lowering interest rates on production loans

·         Facilitating financing for SMEs

·         Supporting exports through fair trade agreements

·         Creating export‑support platforms

·         Stabilizing the exchange rate to reduce risks

A Government Vision for a Regulated Free Market

Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Bassel Abdel‑Hanan states that the government aims to build a regulated free‑market economy, strengthen public‑private partnerships, and create an environment conducive to investment and production as part of a broader restructuring plan.

Conclusion

Syria’s shift toward a free‑market economy presents an opportunity to rebuild on competitive foundations. Success will depend on:

·         Gradual, well‑designed reforms

·         Balanced protection of local industries

·         Legislative and financial modernization

·         Strengthening transparency and competition

Despite the challenges, the reform vision offers a pathway toward a more efficient and sustainable Syrian economy.