Syria is set to host the “NASTEX 2026” International Textile Exhibition from April 1-4, under the patronage of President Ahmad al-Sharaa. The event aims to revitalize Syria’s vital textile industry and reassert the country’s position as a regional hub for trade and industry.
Textile is a Syrian Identity
At a press conference, Minister of Economy and Industry Mohammad Nidal al-Shaar highlighted the historic significance of Syria’s textile sector. “Textile is not merely an economic sector; it is integral to our national identity and economic heritage,” he said.
He emphasized that the exhibition will help reposition Syria as a key regional player in trade and industry, fostering strong economic partnerships between the East and West. These partnerships, he added, will allow Syria to shape its place on the global industrial map rather than merely searching for it.
Minister al-Shaar also underscored the sector’s potential to drive employment and foster national pride. “The textile industry represents more than just production; it tells the story of our nation, our culture, and our values,” he said. He stressed that the industry serves as a bridge connecting Syrians both at home and abroad.
He urged Syrian expatriates who have preserved their craft and shared their expertise internationally to return home. “The Syrian government is committed to creating a welcoming investment climate and encouraging your return through new partnerships,” he assured them.
Reviving National Heritage
Minister of Culture Mohammad Yassin Saleh echoed these sentiments, stressing that Syria’s textile industry is deeply intertwined with the country’s cultural identity. “The textile industry is not just an industrial sector; it reflects Syria’s heritage and collective memory,” he said. “Reviving this industry is about more than restoring production; it’s about reclaiming our nation’s spirit, traditions, and beauty.”
A Step Toward Economic Renewal
Mohammad Hamza, Director-General of the Syrian Exhibitions and International Markets Corporation, emphasized that the exhibition is a crucial step in revitalizing the textile sector and reaffirming its role as a key contributor to Syria’s national economy. “This exhibition will bring together industrialists, investors, traders, and key economic stakeholders under one roof, creating a direct platform for collaboration and new opportunities in production and marketing,” he said.
The exhibition will span 150,000 square meters and showcase a wide range of sectors reflecting Syria’s diverse industrial base. Participants will present the latest trends in textile design, interior decoration, and ready-made garments, all of which demonstrate the exceptional skill and quality of Syrian manufacturers.
