For years during the Syrian revolution, the Nasib border crossing between Syria and Jordan evoked fear among travelers and transport drivers. It operated more like a military barracks than a civil transit point, overshadowed by the risks of arrest, extortion, and insecurity. This reality shifted dramatically following the fall of the Assad regime, opening the door to sweeping reforms that restored the crossing’s vitality and reaffirmed its importance as one of the region’s most significant land gateways. Today, Nasib has re-emerged as a central hub for trade and human movement, reconnecting Syria to its southern neighbor and reinforcing its role in regional commerce.
Strengthening Trade Ties at the Nasib–Jaber Border Crossings
During a joint meeting at the headquarters of the General Authority for Ports and Customs, Qutaiba Badawi, head of the Syrian General Authority, met with Jordanian Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Yarob al-Qudah to discuss mechanisms for enhancing bilateral trade. The two officials examined ways to boost cooperation through the Nasib and Jaber crossings, facilitate import and export procedures, and support the movement of goods in a manner that strengthens the transportation sector.
Talks also covered the development of the joint Syrian-Jordanian free zone, with both sides emphasizing the need to improve investment conditions and modernize services offered to travelers and commercial drivers. Addressing obstacles that delay transit was highlighted as a priority.
A central outcome of the meeting was an agreement to expand both the Syrian Nasib crossing and the Jordanian Jaber crossing. The expansion aims to accommodate the growing volume of trucks and travelers, increase operational capacity, and enhance overall logistical efficiency on both sides of the border.
In addition, both parties agreed to permit Syrian products to enter the Jordanian market in line with mutually approved mechanisms, an important step expected to boost Syrian exports and reinforce their presence in Jordan. The two sides underscored the importance of continuous coordination between their governments to advance economic and trade cooperation in a manner that benefits both countries and strengthens regional integration.
The meeting was attended by the Jordanian ambassador to Damascus, Sufyan al-Qudah, the Assistant Head of the Authority for Customs Affairs, Khaled al-Barad, as well as several senior officials from both sides. Last month, Badawi held similar discussions with the Jordanian ambassador on strengthening joint cooperation and improving conditions at the border crossings.
About the Nasib Border Crossing
The Nasib (Syria)–Jaber (Jordan) border crossing is one of two official land gateways between the two countries. Situated between the Syrian town of Nasib in Daraa Governorate and the Jordanian town of Jaber in Mafraq Governorate, it is the busiest crossing on Syria’s borders. The majority of goods transported between Syria, Jordan, and the Gulf states pass through this vital corridor, making its development essential for regional trade flows.
