The Syrian Ministry of Economy and Industry announced a package of new administrative measures aimed at supporting the investment environment. These measures include extending the validity of commercial registrations issued in 2025, allowing them to remain valid until the expiration of the term of the business headquarters or administration, whichever comes first. Renewal is also possible within the same month of 2026 in which the registration was issued. This decision comes at a critical time as the Syrian economy seeks to recover and reorganize to ensure the continued operation of production.
Simplifying procedures to support the local economy
The ministry explained in its statement that this extension is part of a comprehensive plan to streamline administrative procedures and ensure the smooth operation of businesses, based on the provisions of the Companies Law and the Commercial Law. The ministry has instructed the directorates of internal trade and consumer protection in all governorates, as well as the companies departments and commercial registry offices, to immediately comply with the decision. This step aims to reduce bureaucratic burdens on economic activities, a fundamental pillar in the stages of economic transformation, as reducing red tape helps encourage small and medium-sized enterprises to participate in the formal market.
Smooth process for exchanging the lira
In a related development, and within the framework of the new monetary policies, the Governor of the Central Bank of Syria, Abdul Qader al-Hasriya, affirmed that the process of replacing the Syrian pound is proceeding smoothly and according to plan, noting that there have been no significant obstacles thus far. The currency replacement process is of paramount importance in the current economic context, as it typically aims to control the money supply, combat inflation, and restore confidence in the national currency—all essential steps for achieving financial stability in the country.
No need to rush: extensions are available
During a field visit to currency exchange centers in Damascus, the governor reassured citizens, emphasizing that there was no need to rush or crowd to complete the exchange process. He explained that the specified timeframes were extendable if necessary to ensure a smooth and comfortable process without placing any pressure on citizens or banks. He stressed that the primary goal was to facilitate the exchange process as easily as possible, urging everyone to adhere to official instructions and stay updated by following the bank's announcements.
Field visits and precise evaluation criteria
Last Sunday, Minister of Economy and Industry Nidal al-Shaar, accompanied by the Governor of the Central Bank, conducted a field visit to several centers to observe the progress of the process. To ensure efficient performance, the Central Bank of Syria adopted a rigorous evaluation system for the public and private banks participating in the operation. The bank confirmed that the evaluation is based on a total score of 100 points, distributed across specific criteria. Twenty-five points are allocated to the total value of the exchanged funds, in addition to other points related to the regularity of operations and the ability to meet public demand without bottlenecks. This reflects the commitment of the relevant authorities to maintaining administrative quality during this crucial transitional phase.
