New Customs Policies in Syria Aim to Alleviate Economic Burden
The Syrian Customs Administration has announced the cancellation of over ten fees previously imposed by the Assad regime, a move aimed at easing the financial strain on citizens and improving the importation of goods. Qutaiba Ahmed Badawi, the Director of the General Directorate of Customs, stated that these fees were a significant contributor to the rising prices of goods in local markets, making it increasingly difficult for Syrians to afford basic necessities.
Badawi emphasized that the previous customs duties served only the interests of influential figures within the regime, rather than the public good. He noted that the so-called attachment fee, which violated both local and international customs laws, has been abolished. The new administration is committed to establishing a unified customs tariff that will facilitate trade and protect local industries from foreign competition. This initiative is part of a broader effort to reform the customs system and eliminate corruption and inefficiencies that have plagued the Directorate.
In addition to the cancellation of fees, Badawi announced plans to create a new administrative and technical structure within the Directorate to streamline processes for merchants and citizens. He acknowledged the challenges posed by the previous regime's corruption and favoritism, which severely hindered the Directorate's operations and the rights of the public treasury.
The new policies are expected to significantly improve the importation process, allowing traders to bring in goods that are not prohibited by law. Badawi also mentioned the cancellation of the financing book, which had detrimental effects on the local economy and contributed to inflated prices in the market. The administration aims to implement a customs protection policy that supports local industries while easing the financial burden on citizens.
As part of the reform, the General Directorate of Customs will also address the status of seized and confiscated goods, encouraging owners to reclaim their properties that were wrongfully taken during the Assad regime. Badawi urged citizens and merchants to assist in combating corruption by reporting any irregularities encountered during customs transactions.
