Aleppo Chamber of Industry Discusses the Reality and Future of the Paper Industry

Within the framework of continuous efforts to monitor the industrial sector and improve the work and production environment, a meeting was held today to discuss the status of factories operating in the paper industry. The meeting was attended by Mr. Imad Taha Al-Qasim, President of the Aleppo Chamber of Industry, Mr. Ismail Hajj Hamad, Vice President of the Chamber, and Mr. Muhammad Raafat Shammaa, Board Member. Also present were engineers Firas Abdul Hanan and Yasser Al-Masri from the Local Product Protection Department within the Directorate of Local Product Enhancement at the Industrial Development Center, alongside several paper factory owners.

During the meeting, industrialists presented the reality of this sector, confirming that existing factories currently fulfill about 70% of the country's needs. Furthermore, several new factories are being equipped and are set to enter operation in the coming months, which will secure 100% of the country’s requirements.

The attendees demanded stricter measures to combat the smuggling of paper waste, as it constitutes the primary raw material for operating factories. They also stressed the need to lower fuel oil (mazut/fuel) prices, improve its quality, and exempt industrialists who wish to import fuel oil for their facilities from import fees to support local production. Additionally, they urged for technical solutions to ensure the stability of the electrical power supply to existing plants.

Participants highlighted the necessity of automating all border crossings and ports to regulate operations, prevent violations, and correct customs distortions related to several industries and tariff items. Throughout the session, numerous ideas and future visions were discussed to support this industry and ensure the continuous operation of its facilities

 

28/9/2026