Key facts
- Syria is attempting to revive its textile industry, which was devastated by the civil war.
- The Nas Tex 2026 exhibition in Aleppo marked the first major trade fair in years, featuring over 300 companies.
- Syrian industrialists believe skilled, productive, and cost-effective labor, combined with proximity to key markets, can drive a comeback.
- The lifting of Western sanctions is seen as a crucial factor in attracting investment.
- Despite efforts, challenges remain, including reliance on imported yarn and high fuel prices.
Syria, once a significant player in the global textile market, is now seeking to rebuild its industry after years of devastation caused by the civil war. The recent Nas Tex 2026 exhibition in Aleppo, featuring over 300 companies from around 20 countries, marks a significant step in this revival effort.
For decades, Syrian textiles, known for their quality cotton, skilled labor, and competitive pricing, reached markets across the Arab world and Europe. The civil war, however, led to the destruction of factories, the departure of investors and skilled workers, and a collapse in cotton production. Many Syrian textile professionals relocated to Turkey and Egypt, contributing to the growth of those countries' industries.
Proponents of a Syrian industrial comeback point to the country's remaining strengths. Wissam Muhaysin of Sardaro Muhaysin highlighted that Syrian labor, while skilled and productive, costs significantly less than in Turkey or China. This, combined with Syria's geographical proximity to Gulf and European markets, offers advantages in shipping times and costs.
Efforts are underway to develop industrial infrastructure, including a twinning agreement with Suzhou Land Group to develop Sheikh Najjar industrial city and establish a worker training center. The return of some investors and the sale of production lines at the Nas Tex fair suggest a growing confidence in the sector's potential.
However, challenges persist. Hussam Othman noted issues with local yarn quality, necessitating imports, and the high cost of fuel. He emphasized that the domestic market alone is insufficient for an export-oriented recovery, underscoring the need for increased exports.
Government data indicates that while textile establishments are numerous, a significant portion remains non-operational. The Minister of Economy and Industry, Nidal al-Shaar, expressed optimism that cotton production could rebound with sufficient investment, supporting both domestic needs and export ambitions. The government is focusing development on key industrial cities like Sheikh Najjar, Adra, and Hassia.
The lifting of Western sanctions earlier this year is seen as a critical catalyst, reducing investor apprehension about capital-intensive industries. This change is expected to facilitate the return of integrated production lines, from spinning to finished products.