Syrian Minister of Agriculture Basil al-Suwaidan signed two agreements with the UAE-based Sallal Group, a company specializing in food security and agricultural supplies, on the sidelines of the 21st Arab International Food Industry and Packaging Exhibition, Food Expo 2026.
Suwaidan said the agreements mark an important step toward strengthening agricultural investment and opening new markets for Syrian products. He emphasized the Ministry of Agriculture will serve as a guarantor between the company and farmers, helping regulate contractual relationships, protect producers’ rights and build trust among all parties involved.
The agreements seek to expand agricultural investment, develop agricultural trade and create new opportunities for cooperation between the public and private sectors. They also support the exchange of expertise and the implementation of agricultural and production projects across Syria.
Export Plans Begin With Potatoes
The first agreement calls for feasibility studies at multiple sites throughout Syria in preparation for future agricultural investment projects. It also includes the development of contract farming programs with local farmers and the establishment of sorting and packing centers supporting both domestic sales and exports.
Meanwhile, the second agreement outlines mechanisms for purchasing agricultural crops directly from farmers. According to Suwaidan, the initial phase will focus on potatoes, with plans to export at least 16,000 tons to the UAE.
He added cooperation is expected to expand to other seasonal crops, including tomatoes, watermelon, cantaloupe, cucumbers, eggplant and zucchini. These products will be procured through direct agreements with farmers and supplied to Sallal Group and Bakrawi Company for distribution in the UAE and other international markets.
Syria Seen as Strategic Agricultural Market
Hamid al-Remeithi, CEO of Food Security at Sallal Group, said Syria remains a key destination within the company’s investment strategy. He pointed to opportunities across the agricultural sector, including land investment as well as crop purchasing and export activities.
Remeithi described the current agreement as a first step in broader cooperation between the two sides. He said additional agreements are expected in the coming months as discussions continue. The partnership comes as Syria seeks to attract new investment and expand export opportunities for its agricultural sector.
Food Expo 2026 opened Sunday, June 21, at the Damascus Fairgrounds with the participation of over 300 local, Arab and international companies. The exhibition runs through June 25, aiming to promote Syrian food products while encouraging investment opportunities and economic partnerships.
