Washington loosens civilian export rules to Syria
DAMASCUS, Syria (North Press) – The U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS) announced on Thursday a new rule easing licensing requirements for civilian exports to Syria, following Executive Order 14312 issued on June 30, 2025, aimed at lifting sanctions.
According to Jeffrey Kessler, Under Secretary for Industry and Security at the U.S. Department of Commerce, the change “fulfills the promise of President Donald Trump’s administration to provide a fresh start for the Syrian people.” BIS stressed that the measure does not compromise global security, emphasizing that “malicious actors worldwide” remain barred from accessing U.S. goods, software, and technology.
Under the new rule, American companies can export civilian-use items to Syria without a prior license, including consumer communications devices and certain civil aviation materials. Licensing procedures for infrastructure projects, such as telecommunications networks, water systems, and power generation, are also streamlined. Dual-use items, however, will continue to be reviewed individually.
The BIS clarified that sanctions against designated Syrian individuals and entities remain in effect. The department reaffirmed Washington’s commitment to “a stable, unified Syria at peace with itself and its neighbors,” as stated in the executive order.
This regulatory adjustment comes amid gradual international steps aimed at normalizing trade relations and supporting reconstruction efforts in areas under government and local administration control. In the Autonomous Administration of North and East Syria (AANES), authorities and the U.S.-backed Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) continue to maintain security and governance frameworks, including infrastructure and communications networks that may benefit from eased export rules.
Observers noted that while the change primarily affects government-controlled regions, companies engaging in civilian infrastructure and technological trade could find new opportunities to supply equipment without lengthy licensing delays.