The port of Latakia witnessed a landmark event with the arrival of a large Italian cargo ship carrying cars, machinery, and heavy equipment. The docking marked the official resumption of the maritime trade route between Syria and Italy, a route that had been suspended for years under international sanctions imposed during the Assad regime.
Officials described the ship’s arrival as more than a commercial exchange—it signified Syria’s reintegration into regional and global trade. The event reflects the reopening of economic channels that had long been closed, signaling a growing sense of stability in the country’s ports and logistics infrastructure.
Renewed Confidence in Syrian Maritime Capabilities
Ali Adra, Director of the Public Relations Office at the port of Latakia, called the development “the beginning of a new trade route” between Syria and Italy. He noted that it came in the wake of the lifting of sanctions following political changes in December. According to Adra, the return of international vessels demonstrates the trust being restored in Syria’s maritime sector and its ability to handle large-scale commercial operations.
Latakia’s strategic location on the Mediterranean positions it as a natural hub for trade between Europe and the Middle East. Port officials say recent upgrades in infrastructure and technology have increased efficiency, enabling faster turnaround times for cargo handling and customs clearance.
Breaking Years of Isolation Through Maritime Cooperation
Fadi Marqus, agent for the Italian company Grimaldi—known globally for its RoRo and cargo fleets—described the ship’s arrival as a “historic moment” ending over seven years of inactivity between the two nations. He said the cooperation between Latakia Port and Grimaldi represents “a major step toward restoring economic and diplomatic relations.”
The renewed maritime link demonstrates international confidence in Syria’s ability to maintain safe and efficient port operations. It also serves as a visible sign of improving business conditions and growing openness to global partnerships.
Increased Maritime Traffic and Infrastructure Development
The resumption of the shipping route follows months of preparation by the General Authority for Land and Maritime Ports. Officials credited new facilitation measures and streamlined procedures for easing ship entry and unloading, contributing to a rise in maritime activity.
Latakia received over 330 vessel arrivals since the beginning of the year, supported by administrative reforms and infrastructure upgrades. Recent agreements, including one with the French CMA CGM Group, have introduced new port equipment and enhanced logistical capacity.
The return of Italian ships marks more than a trade milestone—it represents a broader revival of Syria’s role in Mediterranean commerce and a step toward long-term economic recovery.
