Syria published a new customs law this week that is already causing debate not only because of the high tariffs but also because of the political message within it.
According to the Syrian newspaper Al-Watan, the law restricts the import of goods into free zones, with an emphasis on those that violate the boycott directives against Israel. Interestingly, no restrictions were imposed on goods from Iran...
It is not surprising that Syria boycotts Israel. What does annoy some traders in Syria is that the boycott is now being incorporated into a law intended to open the economy, regulate trade, operate free zones, and attract business activity.
In other words, traders will be evaluated not only based on customs documents and the origin of goods but also on whether there is a direct or indirect connection to Israel—through the manufacturer, component, transport route, or transit country.