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Syria is at a turning point: The developments and shifting dynamics of recent months have, for the first time in years, created the conditions for lasting stability and an investment-friendly environment. The lifting of key EU sanctions and the recent policy shift by the U.S. administration on Syria send strong signals from influential actors in support of a political and economic restart in the Arab country—one that may unlock its economic potential and evolve into an entrepreneurial hub in the years ahead.
For German companies in particular, Syria has the potential to quickly become a strategic focus market for shaping the changing business environment in the region—not least thanks to the many innovative Syrian entrepreneurs in Germany who are eager to actively contribute to Syria’s reconstruction in light of the improved future prospects. The platform “A New Beginning for Syria”, launched by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ), is a prime example of this momentum, and it underlines that now is a defining moment for realigning business engagement in the region and establishing vital connections with key stakeholders.
In this context, EMA cordially invites you to the upcoming virtual roundtable, which will explore the wide range of opportunities for German businesses in Syria:
Online Roundtable Syria
“New Opportunities for Entrepreneurial Engagement”
Online (Zoom) | June 4, 2025 | 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM CEST
Information on legal and tax frameworks for doing business in Syria will provide essential insights into the current dynamic market environment and help lay the groundwork for a successful business entry. Take advantage of this low-threshold opportunity to discover Syria as a promising location with untapped potential for your business activities—and to connect with experienced experts to discuss your individual questions and ideas.
EMA looks forward to your participation!
Program:
- Welcome Address: Dr. Stephan Jäger, Partner at Jäger Heintel, Law Firm (Rechtsanwälte Partnerschaft mbB), Treasurer of EMA
- Assessment of Current Developments in German-Syrian Relations: Björn Gehrmann, Head of the Syria Unit & Team Lebanon, Federal Foreign Office, Berlin
- Overview of Current BMZ Activities Related to Syria: Annette Chammas, Head of Division Middle East II, Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ)
- Experience Report on Recent Developments in Syria Following the Fall of the Assad Regime: Dr. Hassan Eid, Board Member of the Free German-Syrian Society, Hamburg
- Current Legal Situation, Legal Challenges & Implications for Business Opportunities of German Companies: Mamdouh Al-Tajjar, Legal & Business Consultant, Clayston, Hamburg
- Q & A Session and Open Discussion with Participants: Moderated by Dr. Stephan Jäger
Impressions from the Online Roundtable on Syria: “New Opportunities for Entrepreneurial Engagement”
With around 70 participants, the online roundtable organized on June 4 on the current economic situation in Syria attracted great interest. At the center was the question of what new opportunities are emerging for German companies in Syria – and how a constructive, partnership-based dialogue can be shaped.
Impulse from EMA and invitation to dialogue
The roundtable was opened by Dr. Stephan Jäger, Treasurer of EMA. He interpreted the strong interest as a clear sign of increasing openness towards economic cooperation with Syria. EMA sees itself as a platform for exchange and networking – especially in this phase of transition, it aims to build bridges and offer guidance.
Political dynamics and signals for a new beginning
Björn Gehrmann from the Federal Foreign Office emphasized that regional rapprochements, the easing of certain EU sanctions, and cautious political course corrections are opening up new opportunities for stability and cooperation. As Head of the Syria Unit, Gehrmann has extensive experience in multilateral processes and stressed that economic impulses – despite all challenges – are meaningful and welcome.
The role of development cooperation
Annette Chammas, Head of the Middle East II Division at BMZ, presented the “New Beginning for Syria” initiative. This platform specifically focuses on engaging Syrian entrepreneurs from the diaspora. Chammas emphasized that reconstruction should be driven primarily by public-private partnerships in areas such as infrastructure, health, and education. The involvement of civil society actors is also gaining importance.
Social change and economic initiative
Dr. Hassan Eid, Chairman of the Free Syrian-German Society, reported a noticeable shift in perspective within Syrian society. Especially among young people, a strong dynamic is emerging: many want to take responsibility and actively contribute to the reconstruction of their country. His insights are based on extensive exchange with local stakeholders.
Legal framework for investments
Mamdouh Al-Tajjar, Legal & Business Consultant at Clayston (Hamburg), gave a well-founded overview of the legal framework for investments in Syria. In addition to company registration and property rights, he addressed tax issues and regulatory risks. His conclusion: Legal advice should be sought at an early stage to minimize risks and ensure planning certainty.
Open discussion and interest in concrete steps
The final discussion also reflected the great interest in the topic. One key question was whether a business delegation could travel to Syria to gain a first-hand impression. It became clear: A coordinated presence of German companies – together with official institutions – would be conceivable from EMA’s perspective later this year, provided the security situation allows. Further questions concerned Syria’s political and economic stability. Experts emphasized that both are in development, but positive trends – especially through regional rapprochements and economic opening programs – are already visible.
Outlook and next steps
The event clearly showed: Economic transformation in Syria is underway. Political signals, diaspora initiatives, and the involvement of key stakeholders are opening new perspectives for cooperation. What matters now is a responsible, well-informed, and well-connected approach.
EMA will remain a reliable partner for companies seeking to build sustainable economic bridges between Germany and Syria. Based on its strong network in both countries, EMA plans to organize a business delegation to Syria in autumn 2025 – with the aim of deepening dialogue on site and identifying concrete cooperation opportunities.
Report: Dalila Sherif
