Daraa Chamber of Commerce Chairman: Jordanian Customs Duties on Syrian Products are "Exaggerated" and Require Reconsideration

 and Industry, stated that there are clear directives from the leadership of both Syria and Jordan to enhance cooperation and remove obstacles hindering trade exchange.

In a statement to "Al-Hurriya," Al-Rifa'i explained that after extensive efforts, discussions, and meetings between trade sector representatives and officials from both countries, a decision was finally issued to allow the entry of Syrian goods into Jordan that had been banned since 2019. However, he expressed regret that the decision did not meet expectations and failed to facilitate the entry of Syrian products, which are known for their high quality and low transportation costs for Jordanian consumers.

Al-Rifa'i emphasized support for protecting and promoting Jordanian national products. Nevertheless, he criticized the "protection duties" imposed on the newly allowed Syrian goods as being heavily exaggerated, ranging from 10% to 200%. He pointed out that these same products enter Jordan from other countries with much lower fees despite having higher costs, which effectively stripped the decision of its purpose and made the duties a greater obstacle than the previous ban.

The Chamber Chairman expressed concern over the resulting frustration for both the Syrian side and Jordanian consumers. He warned that this situation might lead the Syrian side to apply the principle of "reciprocity" by imposing similar duties. He noted that both countries would be the biggest losers in terms of trade volume, transportation, services, clearance, and transit fees, with consumers bearing the ultimate burden.

Al-Rifa'i called for a reconsideration and reduction of these duties, specifically for products such as olive oil, food industries (including tomato paste, jams, biscuits, ice cream, and dairy products), basic production lines like textiles (cotton yarns, clothing, and accessories), and agricultural products such as fruits and vegetables. He stressed that easing trade is essential given regional supply chain disruptions and rising global shipping and insurance costs, noting that recent economic figures already show a trade balance significantly in favor of Jordan.

 

8/4/2026