Tartus welcomes the first Chinese ship to Syria in 14 years.. a new step towards economic recovery and international openness

The Syrian port of Tartus received today the commercial ship "Queen Vivian" coming from China, in the first direct import operation between the two countries in nearly 14 years, according to the Syrian news agency (SANA), in a step described as a significant indicator of the beginning of the recovery of the Syrian economy after long years of war and international sanctions.

The General Ports Authority explained that the unloading process began immediately upon the ship's arrival, which carries about 16,000 tons of steel and various industrial equipment, noting that the operation was conducted on behalf of the Chinese company “Shanghai.” The authority considered that this step represents a first phase in reconnecting Syria with global supply and trade networks.

These developments come at a time when Damascus is seeking to reactivate the industrial and infrastructure sectors, especially after the enormous economic losses estimated by the United Nations at about 800 billion dollars of GDP between 2011 and 2024, in addition to the severe human damages left by the conflict.

Analysts indicate that the arrival of the Chinese ship reflects a strategic shift in the direction of the Syrian economy towards partnership with Beijing, the second largest economy in the world, especially after the recent lifting of Western sanctions on Damascus, paving the way for expanding trade and investment flows between the two countries.

This step also coincides with extensive investments in the development of the port of Tartus, following the signing of a contract worth 800 million dollars with “DP World” to modernize the port and transform it into a regional center for maritime transport connecting Syria with Southern Europe, the Middle East, and North Africa.

The plan includes equipping modern docks and digital systems for managing containers and navigation, which will enhance the efficiency of shipping operations and make Tartus a major trade gateway for Syria during the post-war phase.

In addition to the Chinese shipment, recent weeks have witnessed the arrival of various shipments from several countries, including 32,800 tons of sugar from Brazil, 2,000 cars from South Korea, and 31,750 tons of wheat, indicating a gradual return to the diversity of import sources and the restoration of food and economic balance.

Experts believe that the arrival of “Queen Vivian” represents not just a commercial operation, but a symbol of the beginning of a new phase in rebuilding the Syrian economy, strengthening diplomatic relations, and opening up to international markets, supporting the new government headed by Ahmad al-Shara in its efforts to stabilize and attract foreign investments.