Damascus Chamber of Commerce: E-Commerce Is a Strategic Option for Expanding Syrian Markets

Shifting from Traditional to Digital Trade

Louay al-Ashqar, a board member of the Damascus Chamber of Commerce, stated that activating e-commerce in Syria requires business owners to transition from traditional commerce to a digital model. Speaking to Al-Watan newspaper, he said this transition involves building professional online stores, digitising inventory management, and investing in digital marketing. He also stressed the need to build consumer trust through quality assurance, clear return policies, and partnerships with payment and logistics companies.

Learning from Regional Experience

Al-Ashqar pointed to the value of drawing on successful regional models. He cited the UAE and Saudi Arabia as references for e-commerce legislation and payment systems, Egypt as a model for logistics companies, and Turkey for its experience in supporting exports through digital platforms.

Market Opportunities and Cost Reduction

Al-Ashqar noted that e-commerce enables Syrian producers to reach approximately 45 million domestic consumers as well as the diaspora, bypassing traditional geographic constraints. He added that the sector reduces costs for both merchants and consumers by cutting intermediary chains and saving time and effort. He further highlighted that e-commerce creates employment opportunities for young people in programming, marketing, delivery, and customer service.

E-Commerce Forum 2026

Al-Ashqar praised the E-Commerce Forum 2026, recently held at the Seven Gates Hotel in Damascus, describing it as a national platform for dialogue between the public and private sectors aimed at developing a clear roadmap for Syria's e-commerce ecosystem.

Barriers and Priorities

Al-Ashqar concluded that digital transformation has become a strategic necessity rather than a luxury, given rising traditional operating costs. He identified the following as key barriers requiring urgent attention:

• Electronic payment infrastructure
• Delivery and logistics services
• The legislative framework governing digital commerce
• Telecommunications infrastructure

He stated that addressing these obstacles is essential for e-commerce to become a genuine driver of the Syrian economy and an integral part of the rebuilding process.