Foundation Stone Laid for Al-Salam Mall and Automated Bakery Project

Homs Governorate witnessed the laying of the foundation stone for the Al-Salam Mall and Bayt Al-Khubz Automated Bakery project in the Al-Insha'at district on 5 June 2025. The ceremony was attended by senior government officials and business representatives, and was announced through the official channels of the Ministry of Economy and Industry on the same day.

Project Scope and Components

The project covers a total area of 5,000 square metres and integrates two primary functions: a commercial complex comprising diverse retail outlets and restaurants, and an advanced automated bakery operating in accordance with modern quality standards. The dual-purpose design aims to stimulate economic activity in the governorate while ensuring a sustainable and reliable supply of bread to residents.

Investment Structure and Legal Framework

The project is being implemented under an investment arrangement on land owned by the Syrian Bakeries Corporation. Upon the expiry of the investment contract, full ownership of the commercial complex will revert to the Corporation. This model is designed to leverage public assets for local development purposes, enabling private-sector financing and operation during the contract period while preserving long-term public ownership.

Officials Present at the Ceremony

The foundation-stone ceremony was attended by a number of senior officials, including:

• Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry Maher Al-Hassan
• Governor of Homs Marhaf Al-Na'san
• Director General of the Syrian Bakeries Corporation Mohammad Al-Sayyadi
• Director of Internal Trade and Consumer Protection Wael Barghal
• A number of officials and business figures

Broader Context: Talkalkh Bakery Rehabilitation

This project forms part of a wider government effort to expand Syria's network of automated bakeries. On 22 April, the automated bakery in the city of Talkalkh in western rural Homs was reopened following the completion of maintenance and rehabilitation works carried out in cooperation with the World Food Programme (WFP). The Ministry of Economy and Industry confirmed that these initiatives are part of a systematic plan to improve bread production quality and strengthen food security across Syrian governorates.