Damascus: The 62nd Damascus International Fair is set to open new avenues for trade cooperation between Trkiye and Syria. This key platform will explore mutually beneficial trade areas and represents an opportunity to make significant advancements in the customs sector between the two nations. Turkish Trade Minister Omer Bolat, along with a delegation of Turkish businesspeople, will attend the fair, which is scheduled to kick off on Wednesday, Bolat told Anadolu.
According to Anadolu Agency, the event is expected to facilitate efforts for the Turkish business community to make significant inroads into the Syrian market while deepening bilateral relations. Bolat emphasized that the fair will contribute to establishing stability and peace, enhancing constructive dialogue between Trkiye and Syria. He stated that Trkiye's participation underscores its support for Syria's reconstruction and its commitment to strengthening trade and cultural ties. Representatives from various Turkish sectors, including food, iron and steel, paper products, furniture, and automotive, will participate in the fair. Financial support from the Trade Ministry for participating companies and cultural activities such as wood decoration and Turkish paper marbling, known as 'ebru,' are part of the event's agenda.
Bolat highlighted the importance of the event in advancing trade relations, with the Turkish Exporters' Assembly (TIM) planning high-level contacts with Syria's newly established government. He noted that previous visits and agreements between Trkiye and Syria set the stage for comprehensive talks at the event, aiming to elevate customs cooperation. The establishment of a joint customs committee and working groups is part of a mutual administrative assistance agreement.
Trkiye's trade with Syria reached over $2.6 billion last year, with a bilateral trade volume of $1.9 billion in the first seven months of 2025. The majority of Turkish exports to Syria were processed agricultural products and consumer goods. Bolat pointed out that Syrian demand for durable goods and furniture presents further opportunities for Turkish exporters. He also noted the potential for health equipment and medicine exports to Syria, disrupted by the civil war.
Looking forward, Trkiye aims to sustain mutual visits and trade relations as a short-term priority, emphasizing the Joint Economic and Trade Commission with Syria. In the long term, the goal is to establish a comprehensive economic partnership covering trade in goods, services, public procurement, and investments to harmonize the economies of both countries. The 62nd Damascus International Fair will take place from Aug. 27-Sept. 5, coordinated by the Turkish Trade Ministry and organized by the Southeastern Anatolia Exporters' Association.