Türkiye and Syria are aiming to increase their bilateral trade volume to $10 billion as soon as possible, Turkish Trade Minister Ömer Bolat announced on Wednesday, highlighting the two countries' commitment to expanding economic cooperation and strengthening cross-border trade.

Bolat made the remarks following a meeting with Qutayba Badawi, head of the Syrian Customs and Border Crossings Authority, on the sidelines of the Syria Free Trade and Industrial Zones and Investment Forum, held at the Turkish Ministry of Trade in Ankara.

In a statement shared on the Turkish social media platform NSosyal, Bolat said the discussions focused on enhancing customs cooperation, facilitating trade and advancing the economic partnership between the neighboring countries.

The minister noted that bilateral trade between Türkiye and Syria reached a historic high of $3.7 billion in 2025, reflecting the growing pace of commercial relations following efforts to normalize economic ties.

Bolat said both governments are determined to build on this momentum and achieve the $10 billion trade target set by the presidents of the two countries through coordinated efforts and expanded economic cooperation.

During the meeting, the two sides discussed measures to facilitate cross-border commerce, including the review of customs duties, accelerating the work of the Joint Customs Committee, and strengthening coordination at border crossings.

Bolat emphasized that improving customs procedures and enhancing border infrastructure would play a key role in increasing trade flows and supporting businesses operating on both sides of the border.

The Turkish minister highlighted the importance of unlocking the commercial potential of border provinces, particularly Gaziantep and Aleppo, which have historically served as major trade and logistics hubs linking the two countries.

He said Türkiye aims to fully mobilize economic activity along the entire Turkish-Syrian border, encouraging greater investment, industrial cooperation and commercial exchange.

Bolat reaffirmed Türkiye's commitment to maintaining close coordination with Syrian authorities to deepen economic integration, describing stronger trade relations as a cornerstone of long-term regional peace and prosperity.

He said Türkiye would continue working closely with Syria to strengthen economic ties, arguing that expanding trade and investment would contribute to peace, stability and social welfare across the region while creating new opportunities for businesses and communities on both sides of the border. (ILKHA)