The Syrian Ministry of Economy and Trade has announced a temporary ban on the entry of several fresh produce items, including tomatoes, cucumbers, potatoes, zucchini, eggplants, peppers, apples, grapes, peaches, cherries, pears, watermelons, melons, figs, dried figs, and garlic. The decision took effect on August 15 and is aimed at protecting local producers and ensuring food security.

According to the Syrian General Administration of Land and Sea Ports, the measure is limited to the month of August 2025 and applies to all countries regardless of origin. A statement from the Turkish Ministry of Trade confirmed that the restrictions are temporary and periodically applied. The current ban expands on earlier measures introduced on June 1, 2025, which restricted the import of tomatoes, cucumbers, carrots, watermelons, zucchinis, eggplants, beans, and onions. The Ministry noted that the August decision was an extension of this earlier application.

Turkish officials highlighted that bilateral trade between Turkey and Syria has continued to grow, with exports from Turkey to Syria increasing by 54.31% between December 8, 2024, and August 17, 2025, compared to the same period the previous year. Turkey remains Syria’s largest trade partner. Talks between Syrian and Turkish officials took place earlier in August, during which 18 Memorandums of Understanding were signed, including agreements to establish the Turkey-Syria Economic and Trade Joint Committee and the Turkey-Syria Business Council.

While the fresh produce ban is set to remain in place until the end of August, trade discussions are ongoing. Turkish companies are expected to participate in the Damascus International Trade Fair at the end of the month, with a dedicated pavilion and delegation planned. The restrictions are reported to be linked to difficulties faced by local producers, particularly in regions such as Hama, where growers have faced low market prices. The Ministry has not announced whether the temporary measures will be extended beyond August.

Source: Haberler