#USSBC #Syria Sanctions #Economic Reengagement

U.S.-Syria Business Council Welcomes End of Sanctions

In a significant development, the U.S.–Syria Business Council (USSBC) has expressed its approval of the recent decision by the Trump Administration to lift comprehensive sanctions and export controls on Syria. This move marks a turning point in U.S.-Syria relations and the potential for diplomatic normalization, signaling to global markets that Syria is now open for lawful business activities.

On June 30, 2025, the U.S. Treasury Department announced the termination of the Syria Sanctions Program, which included revoking Executive Order 13582 that restricted U.S. investments and services in Syria. This included the delisting of major state-affiliated entities, notably Syriatel, the largest telecommunications company in the country, which serves over 10 million customers and plays a crucial role in connecting nearly half of Syria's population.

The lifting of these sanctions follows extensive engagement efforts by the USSBC, which involved discussions and communications with both American and Syrian leadership. On June 17, key members of the USSBC, Jay Salkini and Markie Britton, met with U.S. Special Envoy to Syria, Ambassador Thomas J. Barrack, in Istanbul. Their earlier discussions in Damascus with Syrian officials focused on improving civilian connectivity and broader economic access.

According to Jay Salkini, one of the founding members of the USSBC,