Two free trade zones are located in the ports of Latakia and Tartus. No import licensing requirement for inputs and goods entering the zones. Importers need only present a manifest as documentation and for inspection purposes. Only military and other prohibited items are excluded. No re-export regulations or restrictions are imposed except for military and internationally prohibited items.
All goods entering and stored in the zones are exempt from local taxes and duties.
All foreign exchange operations are free of applicable currency restrictions. Any commodity permitted to be imported into Syria can be imported from free zone manufacturing facilities, but an import permit is required. Goods of Israeli origin are prohibited for import into Syria. In addition, all imported goods must come directly from the country of origin, with some exceptions. Syria also has trade agreements with many Arab and other countries around the world.