More and more Turkish products are being offered on Syrian markets after the fall of Bashar Assad's regime in Syria and the establishment of a free market, reports the online publication “Türkiye Today“, quoted by BTA.
Turkish products offered on Syrian markets cost between 30-40 percent cheaper than local ones, making them preferred by many consumers. From machinery and equipment for industry to fruits, vegetables and food supplements, Turkish products have literally taken over the shelves in Syria. However, according to the publication, its entry raises concerns among local businesses and traders.
According to the Turkish Exporters Association, trade between Turkey and Syria is on track to reach $3 billion in the near future. According to its chairman Mustafa Gultepe, Turkish exports to Syria increased by 49.3 percent in the first seven months of 2025, reaching $1.2 billion. It is forecast to reach $2 billion by the end of the year.
Turkish exports to Syria cover a number of sectors. Industrial goods, machinery, parts, construction materials, glass, ceramics, metal and electrical engineering are among the main things that are not produced in sufficient quantity or quality in Syria. Agricultural products and medical devices are also part of the trade that ensures critical food and health security.
However, there are experts who define the entry of Turkish products as "market takeover". Initially, many traders and economists welcomed Turkish goods because of the need to stimulate the local market, but now the growing demand is fueling fears of harming Syria's own industry.
Economists recognize that Syria needs these products, which are not yet produced in the country, but at the same time realize that without the creation of strong Syrian exports, the budget deficit will continue to increase. According to the publication, it has already exceeded 17 trillion Syrian liras ($1.56 billion), depleting reserves and increasing dependence on remittances and foreign aid.
At the same time, experts believe that if imports from Turkey are coordinated within the framework of fruitful cooperation, they could help revive Syrian industry and improve the quality of local products. One solution they point to is imposing tariffs and taxes to protect domestic producers.
The economists also stressed the need to compensate domestic producers for heavy losses and to stabilize the exchange rate before they face an influx of foreign goods.