Economic and Trade Relations between Iran and Syria (2011–2021)

Abstract

Iran-Syria relations have long been one of the central pillars of Middle Eastern geopolitics. The political and security ties between the two countries, particularly after the outbreak of the Syrian crisis in 2011, became stronger than ever, with Iran providing extensive political, military, and financial support to Damascus. However, despite such close alignment, economic and trade relations have not advanced proportionally. The purpose of this study is to analyze the reasons for this imbalance and examine the trajectory of Iran-Syria trade between 2011 and 2021. The research employs a descriptive-analytical method based on statistical data, official documents, and reliable sources. Findings indicate that Iran’s exports to Syria during this period mainly consisted of industrial parts, pharmaceuticals, and food products, while imports were limited to goods such as phosphates and agricultural products. These trends were shaped by banking challenges, transport limitations, international sanctions, and the weak knowledge of Syrian market opportunities among Iranian economic actors. Regional competition also demonstrated that countries such as Turkey, China, and the United Arab Emirates have secured larger market shares in Syria and won major reconstruction contracts. Consequently, Iran, despite its extensive political and security investments, has gained fewer economic benefits. The article concludes by proposing key strategies such as establishing a joint bank, developing direct transport lines, strengthening exports of engineering services, and focusing on long-term investments as essential prerequisites for enhancing Iran-Syria economic cooperation.