Syrian ports are experiencing a significant surge in vessel activity following the recent lifting of international sanctions. This development, attributed to a shift in US and EU policy, has led to a dramatic increase in traceable port calls, signaling a potential, albeit cautious, reintegration of Syria into global trade networks.
Key Takeaways
Traceable port calls at Syrian ports have increased substantially, with some reports indicating a rise of over 300% compared to previous periods.
The lifting of sanctions by the EU and US is widely cited as the primary driver for this uptick in maritime activity.
Despite the increase in traceable calls, a significant amount of “dark” port activity, where vessel tracking is obscured, continues to occur.
Syrian officials have expressed optimism, inviting foreign investment and highlighting the country’s economic potential.
Experts caution that while positive, the increase does not indicate a full trade normalization and that rebuilding the economy will be a long-term process.
Surge in Maritime Activity
Lloyd’s List Intelligence data reveals a dramatic rise in cargo-carrying vessels calling at Syrian ports. In July 2025, traceable calls saw a 221% increase compared to July 2024, with overall cargo vessel arrivals up by 338% since sanctions were lifted. This surge is largely seen as a direct consequence of the EU and US easing restrictions on the country.
Economic Repercussions and Investor Outlook
Syrian Finance Minister Yisr Barnieh has welcomed the sanctions relief, inviting global investors to explore opportunities across various sectors, including agriculture, oil, tourism, and infrastructure. He emphasized the government’s commitment to supporting private sector growth and modernizing the economy. Barnieh also noted strong initial interest from Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Qatar, and several EU nations.
Persistent “Dark” Activity
Despite the increase in transparent maritime operations, a considerable volume of “dark” port calls persists. This continued practice, where vessels disable their Automatic Identification System (AIS) data, suggests that some operators still perceive Syrian trade as risky. This behavior is partly attributed to lingering concerns over remaining US sanctions and the overall high-risk environment for shipping in the region. Vessels like the LPG carrier Gas Catalina and sanctioned product tankers Prosperity and Proxima have been noted engaging in such practices.
Cautious Optimism and Long-Term Prospects
While the uptick in traceable calls is a positive development, experts like Daniel Martin from HFW advise caution. He notes that a significant resumption of trade and normalization will take time, drawing parallels with the gradual return of participants to markets like Iran and Venezuela after sanctions were eased. The lifting of sanctions is viewed as a crucial first step. Still, the path to economic recovery for war-torn Syria is expected to be lengthy, requiring sustained effort and visible progress on the ground.
Sources
Massive increase in calls at Syrian ports seen after sanctions lifted :: Lloyd’s List, Lloyd’s List.
Syria’s finance minister says foreign investors welcome after US sanctions move, Arab News.
Trump says U.S. will end sanctions on Syria ‘to give them a chance at greatness’, The Washington Post.
Syria’s online seaborne trade reaches new highs, Kuehne+Nagel.
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
