Surge in Prices in Damascus Following Closure of Key Crossing
The recent Israeli bombing of the Masnaa crossing between Syria and Lebanon has triggered a significant increase in prices in Damascus, with shipping costs soaring by 40% in just a week. The closure of this vital artery, which facilitated the movement of commercial goods, has caused a ripple effect, leading to severe economic disruptions in areas controlled by the Syrian regime.
According to Saleh Kishore, head of the Syrian Freight Forwarding Companies Union, truck drivers have been forced to reroute their journeys, resulting in longer travel distances and heightened costs. The shift from the Masnaa crossing to alternative routes like Dabousiya and Arida has added approximately 400 kilometers to transport journeys, exacerbating the challenges faced by businesses and consumers alike.
The repercussions of this disruption are evident in the markets of Damascus, where prices for essential goods have surged dramatically. Observers report increases of 15% to 30% in the costs of food and consumer products within a week. For instance, the price of vegetable oil has jumped to 30,000 liras ($2) from 22,000 liras ($1.5), while the cost of a kilo of vegetable ghee has risen to 40,000 liras ($2.7) from 30,000 liras ($2).
As the situation unfolds, the economic crisis in Syria deepens, with the regime's Consumer Protection Association acknowledging a 15% rise in market prices since the onset of Israeli aggression. The market instability is compounded by a fuel shortage crisis, further crippling public transportation and inflating private transport costs.
This crisis is not just a local issue; it reflects the broader implications of geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly as thousands of families are displaced due to escalating violence in Lebanon. The Masnaa crossing, which had previously facilitated the transit of 30 to 40 commercial trucks daily, is now a focal point of economic and humanitarian distress, highlighting the fragility of supply chains in conflict-affected areas.
- The Masnaa crossing, located about 40 kilometers from Damascus and 100 kilometers from Beirut, has historically been a crucial point for trade between Syria and Lebanon. Its closure disrupts the flow of essential goods, including food, fuel, and medical supplies, exacerbating the already dire humanitarian situation in Syria. In addition to the economic implications, the closure has led to increased military checkpoints along alternative routes, further complicating logistics for truck drivers. These checkpoints not only delay transportation but also impose additional fees, straining the already limited financial resources of businesses and consumers. The ongoing conflict and economic challenges have created a perfect storm for the Syrian population, who are now facing the most severe living conditions in over a decade. As prices continue to rise and supplies dwindle, the situation calls for urgent international attention and humanitarian assistance to alleviate the suffering of those affected.
