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Turkish exports to Syria jumped 54.31% year-over-year between December 8 and August 17, Türkiye's Trade Ministry announced Wednesday, underscoring deepening economic cooperation between the neighboring countries.
The ministry emphasized Türkiye's dominant position in Syrian trade, stating that "our country is Syria's largest trading partner" while outlining ongoing efforts to expand bilateral commerce.
The trade surge comes amid a series of high-level diplomatic and business initiatives between Ankara and Damascus. Syrian Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal Shaar led a delegation to Türkiye on August 5-6, resulting in the signing of 18 memorandums of understanding.
Among the key agreements was the establishment of the Türkiye-Syria Joint Economic and Trade Committee (JETCO) and the Türkiye-Syria Business Council, institutional frameworks designed to facilitate closer economic integration.
Türkiye is preparing a significant commercial presence at the Damascus International Trade Fair, scheduled to run from August 27 through September. Nearly 100 Turkish companies will participate alongside Trade Minister Omer Bolat, with Türkiye operating a 1,000-square-meter pavilion at the event.
"A high-level trade delegation will be organized by the Turkish Exporters' Assembly, and our leading companies in the sector will also have a strong participation in the Damascus International Fair," the ministry said.
The announcement comes as Syria has implemented temporary import restrictions on certain products. The Syrian Land and Sea Ports Authority decided July 27 to limit imports of various agricultural products—including tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, and fruits—as well as chicken meat during August only.
Turkish officials noted these restrictions apply universally to all countries and characterized them as a "temporary, periodic measure," suggesting the limitations are not specifically targeting Turkish exporters.
The robust trade growth reflects broader regional economic shifts as Syria continues efforts to rebuild its economy following years of conflict, with Türkiye positioning itself as a key partner in that process.
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