Damascus, Jan. 15 (SANA) The Syrian General Authority for Ports and Customs has signed a strategic investment agreement with Turkey’s Kuzey Star Shipyard to introduce shipbuilding in Syria under international standards, in a move that is the first of its kind in the Syrian maritime sector.
The deal, signed by Authority head Qutaiba Ahmad Badawi and company representatives, provides for the construction of a fully integrated shipyard in Tartus Port under a build–operate–transfer (BOT) model. The Turkish firm will build, equip, operate, and manage the facility, enabling advanced shipbuilding, repair, and maintenance operations.
According to the contract, the investment will run for 30 years, with Kuzey Star committing at least $190 million over the first five years to develop docks, warehouses, and operational infrastructure. The agreement places no financial obligations on the Syrian side.
The deal also grants a 20% discount on shipbuilding and repair services for Syrian government vessels, while requiring the company to provide 1,700 direct jobs and 3,500 indirect jobs, with at least 95% of the workforce to be Syrian. Training and technology transfer are also mandated.
This project will strengthen Syria’s port infrastructure, position Tartous as a regional maritime hub, and open new opportunities for investment and economic growth.
