Damascus Countryside Chamber of Commerce Discusses Economic, Trade and Industrial Issues with the Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry

The Damascus Countryside Chamber of Commerce, headed by its President, Dr. Abdul Rahim Ziyada, accompanied by Mr. Fadi Al-Hammadi, Vice President of the Chamber; Mr. Mahmoud Al-Haj Hammoud, Treasurer of the Chamber; Dr. Radwan Abdeen, Chairman of the Veterinary Pharmaceuticals Sector Committee; and Mr. Mohammad Radwan Al-Murabit, Advisor to the Chamber, discussed a number of economic, trade and industrial issues related to the private sector with Eng. Basel Abdul Hannan, Deputy Minister of Economy and Industry for Industrial Affairs.

The meeting addressed the working mechanisms of the National Import and Export Committee and the Customs Tariff Committee, highlighting the importance of reviewing requests to amend customs duties on materials and goods in light of the specific circumstances of each sector. This approach aims to strike a balance between protecting domestic production and meeting market needs.

The Chamber emphasized the important role played by chambers of commerce in conveying the concerns and challenges faced by businesspeople and economic stakeholders to the relevant government authorities. The meeting also stressed the need to apply standards and specifications equally to imported goods and locally manufactured products, ensuring fair competition and consumer protection.

The discussions also covered challenges related to transportation and exports, particularly exports to the Gulf region, and the need to ensure the availability of trucks and refrigerated vehicles. In addition, the participants discussed strengthening the infrastructure required for storing agricultural crops and providing cold-storage facilities.

Both sides agreed to hold regular meetings with the sectoral committees established within the Damascus Countryside Chamber of Commerce to discuss specialized issues and develop appropriate solutions. They also explored the possibility of establishing specialized financial portfolios to support and finance the agricultural sector.

This meeting forms part of ongoing efforts to strengthen communication and coordination between government authorities and the Damascus Countryside Chamber of Commerce, helping address the challenges facing various economic sectors and support commercial and productive activities.