The Damascus Securities Exchange resumed trading on Monday after being closed for six months. This reopening marks a key step in Syria’s efforts to rebuild its economy following nearly 14 years of civil war and the recent change in government.
The exchange had shut down in December 2024 during the chaotic days before the ouster of former President Bashar al-Assad. The new interim government, led by President Ahmed al-Sharaa, is now working to restore economic stability and attract foreign investment.
Syrian Finance Minister Mohammed Yisr Barnieh, present at the reopening ceremony, said the event signals the start of economic recovery.
He explained that the stock exchange will operate as a private company and become a central hub for Syria’s economic growth, with a strong focus on digital innovation. Barnieh also highlighted plans to simplify business operations and open new investment opportunities.
Only half of the listed companies—14 out of 28—resumed trading initially, having met the necessary disclosure requirements. Damascus Securities Exchange Deputy Director Sulaiman Mouselli expressed optimism about a strong market restart.
The reopening coincides with the easing of international sanctions on Syria. Last month, the United States and the European Union lifted many sanctions imposed during Assad’s rule. This has opened doors for new economic deals and foreign partnerships.
In a major development last week, Syria signed a $7 billion energy agreement with a consortium of Qatari, Turkish, and U.S. companies. The project aims to rebuild Syria’s damaged electricity grid by constructing four combined-cycle gas turbines with a total capacity of 4,000 megawatts and a 1,000-megawatt solar power plant.
Damascus Securities Exchange CEO Basel Al-Assad called the reopening “an important historic day” and expressed confidence in the market’s future role in Syria’s economic development.
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