Syria seeks textile industry revival as sanctions ease

Syria’s garment industry, once a key supplier to Arab and European markets, collapsed under the strain of the civil war and a series of sanctions. With those restrictions now eased and foreign investors cautiously re‑entering the market, the city of Aleppo is hosting its first major trade fair in years, a test of whether the sector can be revived. The event, organized by the Syrian Ministry of Trade and the Aleppo Chamber of Commerce, aims to showcase local textile producers and attract international buyers.

The fair features a range of products from traditional hand‑woven fabrics to modern ready‑to‑wear lines, reflecting the city’s historical role as a textile hub. Participants include dozens of domestic manufacturers, many of whom have re‑established operations after years of disruption, and several foreign companies that have expressed interest in sourcing from the region. Officials say the event will also provide training workshops on quality standards and export logistics, addressing gaps that have widened during the conflict.

While the fair’s success remains to be seen, it signals a tentative step toward rebuilding Syria’s once‑thriving apparel export network. If buyers take up the offerings, the industry could begin to regain its footing, potentially restoring jobs and re‑integrating Aleppo into the broader regional economy.