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Türkiye is working toward more than $2 billion in exports to Syria by year's end following the signing of a new partnership agreement, according to a Turkish trade official.
The Turkish Exporters' Assembly announced that its Syrian board has signed an agreement with the Damascus and Aleppo chambers of commerce, marking a significant step in rebuilding economic ties between the neighboring countries.
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Celal Kadooglu, chair of the Syrian board of the Turkish Exporters' Assembly, said Turkish officials met with a delegation from Syria's Economy and Industry Ministry to discuss expanding trade relations and investment opportunities.
"Our ministry is trying to replace the free trade agreement between Türkiye and Syria that has not been implemented since 2011 (when the civil war began) with a much more comprehensive agreement," Kadooglu said.
The original free trade agreement between the two countries was suspended when Syria's civil war began in 2011, disrupting economic cooperation that had been building between the neighbors. The new comprehensive partnership agreement represents an effort to establish a more robust framework for bilateral trade.
Turkish exports to Syria have already shown strong growth this year, rising 49.3% to exceed $1.2 billion in the first seven months compared to the same period last year.
"We expect Turkish exports to Syria to reach above $2 billion by the end of the year," Kadooglu said.
The substantial increase in export volume demonstrates the recovering demand in Syria and Türkiye's capacity to meet that demand across multiple sectors. The projected $2 billion target would represent a significant milestone in the restoration of economic relations between the two countries.
The grain sector continues to lead Turkish imports into Syria, maintaining its position as the dominant trade category between the two countries. However, Kadooglu noted that several other sectors have also experienced significant growth.
"The grain sector maintained its leading position among total imports but there has been significant activity in the chemical, aquatic, and animal products sectors, as well as in the electrical and electronic goods industry," he said.
This diversification of export categories suggests a broadening economic relationship beyond basic commodities, potentially indicating Syria's growing capacity to import higher-value goods as economic conditions improve.
Türkiye plans to showcase its trade potential at the 62nd Damascus International Fair, scheduled for Aug. 27 through Sept. 5. The participation represents a formal demonstration of Türkiye's commitment to expanding economic ties with Syria.
"We will participate in the 62nd Damascus International Fair to be held on Aug. 27–Sept. 5 with our Turkish booth," Kadooglu said. "We believe this event will present opportunities for mutual investments."
The trade fair participation signals Türkiye's intention to pursue not only increased exports but also mutual investment opportunities that could deepen economic integration between the two countries. The event is expected to provide a platform for Turkish companies to establish direct connections with Syrian business partners and explore long-term commercial relationships.
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