Full Breakdown
China’s Trade Surge and Industrial Push in Syria in 2026
By Drooid · · How we work
Rapid Growth of Bilateral Trade
In the first half of 2026, Syrian imports from China reached roughly $669.9 million, surpassing the total value of Chinese exports to Syria for the entire year of 2025 (about $668 million). 2024 trade totaled about $389 million, with Chinese exports accounting for $386 million and Syrian exports to China only $3 million. 2025 saw Chinese exports rise to $668.1 million, a 73 % increase over 2024, while Syrian exports to China fell to $1.26 million, underscoring a pronounced trade imbalance favoring China. (established fact)
Recent Investment Initiatives
Beyond merchandise, Chinese firms are committing to large-scale industrial projects. In Homs province’s Hassia Industrial City, five ventures valued at an estimated $500 million are being prepared. The projects—covering a steel-rolling plant, ceramics factory, construction-materials plant, asphalt plant and stone quarry—are led by the Chinese company Zhong in partnership with White Room Holding and local management.
During the 63rd Damascus International Fair in September, additional reconstruction-related deals were announced. In July, the Federation of Syrian Chambers of Commerce and the Syrian-Chinese Business Council signed a memorandum of understanding to expand trade, facilitate joint business forums, exchange economic information, support partnerships and promote technology transfer.
Political Context
On February 16, 2026, Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa attended the Ministry of Awqaf’s “Unity of Islamic Discourse” conference in Damascus, reflecting the government’s visible engagement with foreign economic partners. (established fact)
Implications and Outlook
The surge positions China as a dominant supplier of machinery, iron, vehicles and construction materials needed for Syria’s reconstruction and public-works programmes. Analysts note that while the current trade pattern is heavily import-focused, the next phase will test whether these investments translate into sustained local production and a more balanced economic relationship. (projection)
The continued imbalance—massive Chinese imports versus minimal Syrian exports—remains a defining feature of the partnership, raising questions about long-term benefits for Syria’s domestic industry.