Content Group 4 of Syrian Arab Republic

Country Content

Foreign Direct Investment

 

Foreign Direct Investment Policy

  1. Before the start of the conflict in 2011, Syria was gradually opening up its economy and moving towards a free market system.


 

  1. Before the start of the conflict, Syria introduced structural reforms, which included the renovation of the Commercial Code (2007), the Maritime Code (2008), the Finance Act (2004) and the Banking Act of 2004, which would allow the country to be able to move toward a free market economy. Furthermore, the Investment Law also gave incentives to foreign investors, including ownership of companies, import of machinery, transport and raw material free from customs duties.


 

  1. No reliable international data has been published regarding foreign investment in Syria since 2012, largely due to the country's ongoing conflict. This makes it difficult for investors to gauge the opportunities that might be present in the market.

Sources: WTO – Trade Policy Review, Investment Policy Hub, Syrian Investment Agency, Fitch Solutions

 

Free Trade Zones and Investment Incentives

Free Trade Zone/Incentive Programme

Main Incentives Available

Syria has eight free zones (Adraa, Airport, Aleppo, Damascus, Hasyaa, Lattakia Port, Tartous and Yaarobya), which allow for different production activities and services.

The government is also advocating policies for the development of industrial cities.		Although various incentives exist, such as lower customs duties and administration, as well as tax breaks, investors will face challenges arising from the conflict.

Sources: US Department of Commerce, Syrian Investment Agency, Fitch Solutions

Country Title
Investment Policy
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