The Iraqi Border Ports Authority announced the export of the first shipment of cement to Syria via the Al-Waleed-Al-Tanf border crossing. This step is considered the first of its kind since the fall of the regime in Syria at the end of 2024, and comes within the framework of efforts to revitalize commercial movement between the two countries.
Direct supervision and shipment details
The Authority stated, in a statement quoted by the Iraqi News Agency "WAA" today, Sunday, that the export operation took place under the direct supervision of its head, Omar Adnan Al-Waeli. The size of the exported shipment was not disclosed, but it represents a start for strengthening trade exchange.
Improving the performance of border crossings
The Authority stated that this step reflects a significant development in the performance of border crossings, especially regarding regulatory and supervisory procedures. It also contributes to strengthening coordination among relevant government bodies to support commercial activity.
Readiness of the Al-Waleed Border Crossing
The Authority highlighted that the Al-Waleed crossing possesses advanced technical and administrative readiness, which enhances its ability to efficiently facilitate the passage of goods during the upcoming phase. This reflects the preparedness to expand the scope of commercial operations.
Boosting trade exchange
This development comes as part of ongoing efforts to boost trade between Iraq and Syria, following the reactivation of several border crossings. The two countries are connected by three main land crossings: Rabia-Al-Yaarubiyah, Al-Qaim-Al-Bukamal, and Al-Walid-Al-Tanf.
Forecasts for increased trade volume
The head of the Iraqi Border Ports Authority, Omar Al-Waili, had previously indicated that the operation of the Rabia border crossing could increase the volume of trade exchange by up to 20% in the first phase. This contributes to improving the flow of goods.
Economic Benefits of Developing Ports
Al-Waili indicated that developing the operational infrastructure of border crossings will contribute to reducing transportation costs and shortening shipping time. It will also provide alternative routes for trade movement, which will positively impact the stability of local markets.
Reopening of other crossings
In a related context, Damascus and Baghdad recently reopened the Al-Yaarubiyah-Rabia crossing. This step aims to revitalize economic cooperation and increase trade movement, with expectations of a recovery in the transportation and related services sectors.
Keywords
- Al-Walid-Al-Tanf Crossing
- Syrian-Iraqi Relations
- Land crossings
- Al-Tanf
- Iraq
- Syria
- Syria News
- Iraqi Border Ports Authority
- Syrian Economy News
- Cement
