Syria and China Sign Agreement to Build Integrated Cement Plant in Raqqa

Agreement Details

The Syrian Ministry of Economy and Industry announced the signing of an agreement between Al-Hassan Holding Group of Syria and China's Jiangsu Pengfei Group, for the establishment of an integrated cement and clinker production plant in Raqqa Governorate. The agreement was signed on Chinese soil as part of a broader government drive to revive strategic industries and reduce dependence on imports.

The ministry noted that the project is proceeding under government directives and the patronage of Raqqa Governor Abdulrahman Salama, adding that a delegation from the Chinese company is expected to arrive next month to complete preparatory work and initiate implementation.

Production Capacity and Timeline

The plant is designed to produce 7,000 tonnes of cement and 5,000 tonnes of clinker per day, placing it among the largest industrial investments in the region. The project is estimated to reach completion within approximately two years from the start of construction.

The Chinese Partner

Jiangsu Pengfei Group is one of China's foremost manufacturers of cement production equipment, with more than five decades of industry experience. The group operates as a full EPC (Engineering, Procurement, and Construction) contractor, delivering integrated solutions that span design, procurement, construction, and commissioning. Its products have been exported to more than sixty countries worldwide.

Economic and Social Impact

The project is expected to contribute to meeting domestic demand for building materials and to supporting infrastructure rebuilding projects in the post-conflict period. Key anticipated benefits include:

• Creation of hundreds of jobs for specialised Syrian personnel
• Transfer of technical expertise in heavy industry
• Localisation of cement and clinker production, reducing import costs
• Support for national infrastructure rebuilding projects

Industry Context

This agreement comes amid growing international interest in Syria's cement sector, driven by urgent demand for building materials needed to rebuild cities and infrastructure damaged during years of conflict. Through such agreements, the Syrian government aims to attract large-scale industrial investment and strengthen domestic production capacity as an alternative to reliance on external markets.