A vessel transporting wheat has docked at Latakia port in Syria, marking the first shipment of this nature since the ousting of former President Bashar al-Assad by rebel forces in December, according to government officials on Sunday.
Representatives from the newly established Islamist-led government indicated that while imports of wheat and essential goods are not restricted by U.S. and U.N. sanctions, difficulties in obtaining financing for trade agreements have discouraged international suppliers from engaging with Syria.
The Syrian General Authority for Land and Sea Borders announced that the ship was carrying 6,600 tonnes of wheat. While the statement did not disclose the ship’s nationality or final destination, a regional commodity trader informed Reuters that it originated from Russia.
The borders authority described the shipment as a significant sign of the beginning of a new phase of economic recovery for the country, suggesting it could lead to an increase in the arrival of essential supplies.
Traders have noted that Syria has primarily depended on overland imports from neighboring countries this year.
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Previously, Russia and Iran, both strong supporters of the Assad regime, were the main suppliers of wheat and oil products to Syria, but they ceased these shipments after the rebels’ victory and Assad’s subsequent relocation to Moscow.
The government led by Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa is concentrating on economic recovery following 14 years of conflict.
