The Cabinet decided to cancel the decision of suspending the importation of goods whose customs duties exceed 5%. In an interview with the Syrian TV, Minister of Economy and Trade Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar said that the decision to suspend importation had a negative impact on the market and raised the prices of goods, and that the decision was reversed due to the legitimate demands of citizens as it had more negative repercussions than expected.

Al-Shaar said that after discussions with citizens, chambers of trade and commerce and farmers, it was apparent that the decision doesn't suit production and consumption patterns, adding that alternative methods can be used to preserve Syria's foreign currency reserves while maintaining the flow of goods to and from Syria.

He said that one such method is downsizing the program for financing exports by the Central Bank, which will free up a significant amount of foreign currency, maintain the traders' freedom and keep the flow of goods, thus preventing price hikes and preserving trade agreements with other countries.

Al-Shaar said that the private sector is self-funding and that traders and industrialists often suggested funding imports via their savings and their foreign currency accounts abroad.

He stressed that his ministry is constantly evaluating issues and exchanging opinions with citizens and officials to produce resolutions that benefit citizens first, affirming that prices will return to normal as the government will step in to monitor them without leniency.

Al-Shaar said that there will be new decision to support national industries and employ workers as fighting unemployment is a priority, noting that Syria achieved much in self-sufficiency and that the current state of foreign currency reserves is good.

He concluded by affirming the importance of agriculture in Syrian economy, saying that efforts will be made to advance this sector and achieve added value through agricultural industries.