Japan is preparing to lift economic sanctions on 16 Syrian entities in September, a move that signals a new phase in Tokyo’s gradual easing of restrictions on Damascus and its growing interest in supporting Syria’s reconstruction and economic recovery. The information was reported by Yomiuri Shimbun, citing senior government sources.
Key Sectors Expected to Benefit
According to the newspaper, Tokyo is considering removing entities operating in telecommunications, oil, and banking from its sanctions list. The step aligns with Japan’s broader intention to expand economic cooperation with Syria and increase Official Development Assistance (ODA) in the coming period.
If implemented, the decision would reduce the number of Syrian entities under Japanese sanctions from 31 to 15. Restrictions will remain in place for 59 individuals, including fugitive terrorist Bashar al-Assad. Japan has not yet released the names of the 16 entities expected to be delisted.
A Gradual Shift Since 2025
Japan began easing its sanctions on Syria on 30 May 2025, when it lifted asset freezes and financial restrictions on four Syrian banks: the Industrial Bank, Popular Credit Bank, Saving Bank, and Agricultural Cooperative Bank.
At the time, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the move reflected political developments in Syria and was intended to support efforts to achieve peace, stability, and improved living conditions. Sanctions on 59 individuals and 31 entities remained in place following that announcement.
A Warming Relationship Between Tokyo and Damascus
The anticipated Japanese step comes amid a noticeable uptick in Syrian-Japanese engagement. On 4 August, the two sides held their first round of political consultations in Damascus, discussing diplomatic representation, development cooperation, trade and investment, educational and cultural exchange, and regional developments.
In July, officials from both countries met to explore opportunities for expanding economic, trade, and investment cooperation, as well as capacity-building initiatives aimed at supporting Syria’s economic recovery and encouraging private-sector participation.
In recent months, Japan has repeatedly affirmed its commitment to supporting Syria’s reconstruction and development, with particular emphasis on strengthening the role of the private sector and advancing public-private partnerships.
A New Step Toward Economic Re-Engagement
If formally approved, lifting sanctions on 16 additional entities would mark another step in rebuilding economic ties between Tokyo and Damascus. The significance is heightened by the fact that the entities expected to be removed operate in core sectors essential to economic activity and investment.
Japan’s direction comes at a moment when Syria is seeking to broaden its international economic partnerships, attract investment, and accelerate reconstruction. Easing restrictions on Syrian institutions could open wider channels for financial, commercial, and development cooperation with Japan in the next phase.
This article was translated and edited by The Syrian Observer. The Syrian Observer has not verified the content of this story. Responsibility for the information and views set out in this article lies entirely with the author.
