Syria · Country watch

Syria Tightens Currency Controls, New Media Law Advances

Syria's central bank enforces stricter currency controls; a new media law promising journalist protections nears approval.

Florent Kalfon · October 20, 2026 · 3 sources

The picture Deteriorating

Business conditions in Syria are deteriorating as the central bank enforces stricter currency controls, impacting the finance sector. A new media law offers protections but may alter the media landscape.

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In this briefing براء عثمان · Union of Syrian Journalists · People's Assembly (Syria) · صفوت رسلان · Central Bank of Syria · Safwat Raslan · علي الحمد · Ministry of Local Administration and Environment (Syria) · Ali Al-Hamad

Regulation

Public sector

Syria's New Media Law Nears Approval

Syria is close to enacting a new media law that promises enhanced protections for journalists, according to the Union of Syrian Journalists. The law, which is in its final stages before being submitted to the People's Assembly, includes provisions to prevent arbitrary detention and searches of journalists. Barah Osman, the Union's Secretary for Relations and Communication, stated the law aims to safeguard journalists' legal rights and professional freedoms.

Impact Media companies and journalists in Syria will gain legal protections, potentially affecting reporting and information dissemination.

Sources: aks alser ↗

Finance

Central Bank of Syria Tightens Currency Controls

The Central Bank of Syria, led by Governor Safwat Raslan, has announced a crackdown on the currency exchange and remittance market. The bank aims to regulate the market and ensure compliance with financial laws, according to Al-Watan. Raslan emphasized that these measures are not temporary and will be a focal point of future financial policy, with no tolerance for violations.

Impact Currency exchange operators and financial service providers in Syria face stricter regulatory oversight, affecting operations.

Sources: Al-Watan الوطن ↗

Construction

Syria Targets Building Code Violations

Syria's Ministry of Local Administration and Environment has empowered internal oversight bodies to address building code violations, according to Al-Watan. Ali Al-Hamad, Director of Public Relations, stated that the decision allows for field inspections and accountability for those involved in violations, including owners, contractors, and engineers. The move aims to enhance regulatory compliance in construction.

Impact Construction firms in Syria must adhere to stricter building code enforcement, impacting project timelines and costs.

Sources: Al-Watan الوطن ↗