Key facts
- Syria will host its first business forum with the United States on July 13, 2026.
- The forum aims to explore economic recovery, reform plans, and investment opportunities in Syria.
- The U.S.-Syria Business Council (USSYBC) has launched to advance bilateral trade and investment.
- The launch follows a meeting between US President Donald J. Trump and Syrian interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa.
- The White House announced the beginning of sanctions relief on Syria.
- A banking roundtable was convened to discuss financial reconnection and rebuilding trust in Syria's banking sector.
Syria is set to host its first business forum with the United States on Monday, July 13, 2026, focusing on economic recovery, reform plans, and investment opportunities. The event, organized by the Ministry of Economy and Industry and the Syrian-American Business Council, signifies a move towards economic restoration following decades of U.S. sanctions.
The U.S.-Syria Business Council (USSYBC) has officially launched as an independent, nonprofit trade association based in Washington, D.C. This launch follows a high-level meeting between U.S. President Donald J. Trump and Syrian interim President Ahmed Al-Sharaa, during which the White House announced the commencement of sanctions relief and indicated a renewed commitment to constructive engagement.
Syria's Minister of Economy and Industry, Dr. Nedal Alchaar, acknowledged the United States' stance and stated Syria's readiness to re-emerge as an active partner in global development. The USSYBC also convened a significant banking roundtable, bringing together senior representatives from over 15 major U.S. and international financial institutions, five of Syria's leading private banks, the Central Bank of Syria, and officials from the U.S., U.K., E.U., and U.N. This session aimed to rebuild institutional trust and explore avenues for financial reconnection.
Sameer Saboungi, an Attorney, Policy Expert, and Founding Member of the USSBC, described the roundtable as a crucial first step in reopening dialogue, laying the groundwork for restoring confidence in Syria's banking sector, re-establishing correspondent ties, and facilitating the responsible flow of capital. The USSYBC's mission includes accelerating trade, facilitating scientific and professional exchange, and supporting cross-border investment, with planned activities such as trade missions and investment forums.