With the aim of studying and developing the reality of industrial and economic work between Syria and Turkey, a high-level delegation from the Turkish Industry and Business Association (TÜSİAD) visited Syria. The delegation was headed by the association's Vice Presidents, Ms. Perihan İnci and Mr. Fatih Kemal Ebiçlioğlu, along with members Mr. Barış Orhan, Dr. Serhat Erkmen, and Mr. Hasan Arber. They were received by Dr. Mazen Derawan, Chairman of the Federation of Syrian Chambers of Industry; Mr. Mohammed Ayman al-Mawlawi, Secretary-General of the Federation and Chairman of the Damascus and Rural Damascus Chamber of Industry; and Mr. Khaldoun Daddo, Director of the Federation.Ms. Perihan highlighted the establishment of TÜSİAD in 1971, noting that it stands as one of the largest and most powerful representatives of the Turkish economy in terms of production, value added, employment, and foreign trade volume, with a membership of 4,500 companies spanning all economic sectors.Dr. Mazen pointed out the significant similarities between the two countries, particularly regarding culture, skilled labor, and geographical proximity via their extensive land and sea borders. He also demonstrated the existence of multiple diverse opportunities for Turkish investors to enter the market and create synergies with their Syrian counterparts. He emphasized labor-intensive industries such as furniture and textiles, in addition to potential investments in infrastructure, various types of tourism, and public residential construction. He noted that these opportunities are supported by Syria’s currently attractive investment climate and flexible government handling of all business operations.Discussions were held regarding current work priorities in Syria, the financial and banking system, the availability of necessary logistics for operations, all types of insurance, and customs clearance facilities at border checkpoints.At the end of the meeting, Ms. Perihan extended an invitation to organize a visit for a delegation of Syrian businessmen to the association’s headquarters in Istanbul to conduct further talks. The goal is to establish joint ventures and achieve mutual benefits by capitalizing on the diversity of available opportunities
3/9/2026
