Turkish firms: Exports to Syria could triple in 2025

Turkey is gearing up for a major expansion in economic ties with Syria, as transitional President Ahmed al-Sharaa visited Ankara on Tuesday. With Turkish transport and manufacturing firms eyeing growth opportunities in the war-torn country, trade between the two neighbors is expected to triple in the coming years.

Trade Boom Following Assad’s Ouster

Since al-Sharaa’s forces ousted former Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, Turkish exports to Syria have surged, according to Turkish Exporters Assembly data:

• 20% rise in December 2023
• 38% jump in January 2024

Underscoring Syria’s urgent need for reconstruction, specific sectors have seen explosive growth in exports:

• Machinery: +244%
• Cement, glass, ceramics: +92%
• Metals: +73%
• Fruits & vegetables: More than tripled

Turkey’s Economic Role in Syria’s Reconstruction

Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdoğan confirmed that discussions with al-Sharaa included joint economic measures to help rebuild Syria. Turkish firms are rapidly establishing new freight connections and investing in capacity expansion to meet the rising demand. “Exports could exceed $6 billion if trade had not been disrupted over the past 13 years,” said Bilgehan Engin, head of the Turkish Forwarding and Logistics Association. He projects that trade could reach this level within 2 to 5 years.

Major Developments in Bilateral Trade

• Bilateral trade reached $2.2 billion in 2023, with Syria importing $437 million from Turkey.
• Trade currently flows through the Bab el-Hawa buffer zone, where Turkish trucks transfer cargo to Syrian trucks due to security concerns—raising costs and shipping time.
• Discussions are underway to eliminate the buffer zone, allowing direct Turkish transport access inside Syria.
• Talks to revive a free trade agreement and deepen investment, transport, and contracting cooperation are progressing.

Turkey’s medium-term goal: $10 billion in bilateral trade, according to Ibrahim Fuat Ozcorekci, head of the Turkey-Syria Business Council.

Massive Rebuilding Effort & Investment Prospects

Syria’s new leadership is undertaking a radical shift toward a free-market economy, aiming to attract foreign investment, according to Economy Minister Basil Abdel Hanan. Turkey is responding by: Providing electricity Negotiating a maritime demarcation deal Re-establishing banking ties

Turkish Businesses Preparing for Syrian Rebuilding Boom

• Pasifik Euroasia, a logistics giant, is expanding terminal investments in Iskenderun and Mersin to handle Syria-related business.
• Catoni Group, a freight forwarding company, has been approached by shipowners seeking to supply reconstruction materials.
• $400 billion in reconstruction projects (including infrastructure, power plants, and logistics) is expected.
• Turkey's ports and road network will serve as the main transit hub for Syria’s rebuilding.

Turkish Industry Eyes Syrian Production Zones

With rising labor costs in Turkey, some manufacturers are pushing for a designated industrial zone inside Syria to lower production expenses and encourage Syrian migrant workers to return home.

• Ahmet Oksuz, chairman of the Istanbul Textile & Raw Materials Exporters’ Association, supports this initiative to reduce costs and increase employment in Syria.
• Hakan Bucak, former board director of the Turkish-Syrian Business Council, is considering reopening a quarry near the border, which could create 150-200 jobs.

Conclusion: A New Era in Turkey-Syria Trade Relations

As Syria shifts toward economic recovery, Turkey is positioning itself as a key player in the country’s rebuilding efforts. With billions in trade and investment opportunities, Ankara is set to expand its economic footprint, solidifying its role as Syria’s primary trade and logistics hub.