December 3, 2025

Syria cuts customs duties on cattle imports

Syria's National Committee for Import and Export has issued a decision to reduce customs duties on imported livestock, including camels, cattle, and sheep.

According to a statement the committee published on December 2 on its Facebook page, the decision introduces amendments to customs fees, including the reduction of the fee for importing cows and calves to US$7 per head, down from US$53 previously.

The committee said the decision aims to support the livestock sector and encourage regular imports.

The General Customs Administration is required to circulate the decision to all customs offices at land, sea, and air border crossings and to begin implementing it as of the date of issuance, according to the committee.

In previous remarks to Enab Baladi, Abdul Hay al-Yousef, Director of the Animal Health and Production Directorate at the Ministry of Agriculture, said that importing calves is intended to supply the local herd with new stock capable of production, contributing to food security in Syria and stimulating the animal wealth economy.

Al-Yousef explained that there is a shortage of red meat in Syria, especially veal, so the decision is not expected to have a negative impact on the domestic market. Syria also needs to bring in a new herd, he added, noting that this herd could later, after being fattened, be used for export.

- Enab Baladi