Türkiye and Syria Launch 24-Hour Free Transit Trade Through Border Gates

Damascus, The Gulf Observer: Türkiye and Syria will begin free 24-hour transit trade through two shared border customs gates starting Thursday, Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat announced during his visit to Damascus for the 62nd Damascus International Fair.

“Starting tomorrow, 24-hour transit trade will be free at two customs gates, Türkiye’s Cilvegozü and Öncüpınar, and Syria’s Bab al-Air and Babusselam,” Bolat said on Wednesday.

He underlined that Syria has made significant progress in achieving political stability and social peace since the “December 8 Revolution,” and emphasized that Türkiye will continue to support Syria in this new era.

Bolat highlighted the strong Turkish presence at the Damascus International Fair, noting that Turkish investors, manufacturers, exporters, and visitors attended in large numbers. He added that Türkiye’s pavilion was the largest at the event.

As part of the talks in Syria, Bolat announced the signing of a cooperation agreement that includes the establishment of a joint customs committee, enhanced customs cooperation, and training initiatives.

For his part, Syria’s Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar noted that steps have been taken to establish a Syrian Exporters’ Assembly, which he said will significantly contribute to bilateral trade.

Al-Shaar also stressed the importance of establishing an industrial free zone, stating that a special area will be allocated to Turkish administrators and factories within Syrian territory. He added that efforts are underway to facilitate the return of Syrians residing in Türkiye to their homeland.

“This was one of the issues discussed in today’s meetings. We are working to address deficiencies at customs and border crossings. A major transformation is expected next year, particularly in the area of digital industry, which we consider vital. Türkiye’s industrial expertise and model are of great importance to us,” he said.

The 62nd Damascus International Fair thus marks a new chapter in Türkiye-Syria trade cooperation, offering a platform to explore mutually beneficial opportunities while paving the way for significant advances in the customs sector between the two neighbors.