In a step aimed at strengthening the Syrian economy and supporting domestic trade, the Second Syrian Lubricants Conference commenced under the theme “Strengthening the Pillars of Trust in International Trade.” Organized by Shamamis Conferences and Exhibitions in cooperation with the Ministry of Economy and Industry, the event was held at the Seven Gates Hotel in Damascus.
The conference seeks to align with the latest global developments in the lubricants and derivatives sector. It focuses on the importance of quality standards and specifications, developing solutions to industry challenges, and opening new domestic and international marketing channels for Syrian products.
Developing National Specifications
Yasser Alawi, director general of the Syrian Arab Organization for Specifications and Metrology, outlined the organization’s efforts to modernize national specifications in response to rapid market changes. He emphasized that the body develops standards aligned with international norms, including ISO standards and ASTM-approved testing methods, particularly in the vital oils and greases sector.
Alawi noted that this process involves reviewing and replacing outdated specifications with updated ones that reflect current market needs and ensure genuine product quality. He also highlighted enhanced technical cooperation with international bodies and ongoing efforts to obtain full ISO membership.
Strengthening Trust in International Trade
Bashar Khodour, director general of Shamamis, stated that the conference’s second edition serves as an important platform to support a strategic national industry, promote a culture of quality, and create tangible opportunities for investment and export. He added that these efforts contribute to environmental protection and national economic growth.
Echoing this view, Abdurazzaq al-Shahrour, head of the Oils Committee at the Damascus and its Countryside Chamber of Industry, emphasized the strategic importance of the mineral oils and greases sector, given its interconnection with all industrial fields.
He noted that despite existing challenges, Syrian manufacturers have preserved their technical expertise, secured a significant share of domestic demand, and developed products capable of competing with imports.
Enhancing Quality Infrastructure
A subsequent session broadened the discussion to include economic and environmental dimensions alongside technical topics. Key issues addressed included support for the used oil recycling industry, highlighting its economic and environmental benefits; the composition of mineral greases; methods for selecting appropriate engine oils; and the development of research laboratories toward greater innovation and quality assurance.
Ahmad al-Rasis, chairman of the conference’s scientific committee, noted it builds on the success of the first conference, whose outcomes have already led to concrete initiatives. He stressed the importance of the event in bringing together public and private sector stakeholders, fostering constructive dialogue, and producing practical recommendations.
Memoranda of Understanding Signed
The conference concluded with the signing of two memoranda of understanding. The first was signed between Shamamis and the German Chambers of Commerce and Industry (DIHK), while the second involved the Syrian-German Center. The agreements aim to enhance cooperation in conference organization, vocational training program development, and the promotion of total quality management within national companies.
