New customs system at Semalka border crossing raises fees 

The Semalka border crossing administration informed ANHA agency that preparations are underway to adopt a new customs system called "Coordinator" affiliated with the Syrian Interim Government, following the merger process based on the agreement signed between the General Commander of the Syrian Democratic Forces and the head of the Syrian Interim Government, Ahmed al-Sharaa, during the coming period, with its implementation to begin this week as an alternative to the system currently in place.

According to information released by the border crossing administration, this system is expected to lead to a significant increase in customs duties on various goods, which will directly impact the prices of basic commodities and exacerbate the suffering of citizens already struggling with difficult economic conditions.

The figures illustrate the extent of the anticipated increase: the duty on a ton of rice has risen from approximately $13 to $27, the duty on a ton of vegetable oil has jumped from $20 to approximately $250, the duty on a ton of flour has increased from $11 to $53, and the duty on a ton of sugar from $13 to $53.

Furthermore, the cost of clearing a truckload of fruits and vegetables is expected to rise from around $200 to thousands of dollars, foreshadowing a widespread increase in food prices.

Observers believe that these substantial increases reflect an economic policy that disregards the living conditions of the population, particularly given the low incomes and high poverty rates, which could further worsen the economic crisis.

The Autonomous Administration had previously adopted flexible customs policies, focusing on keeping tariffs within acceptable limits to maintain price stability and ensure the flow of essential goods to markets. This contributed to mitigating price fluctuations compared to other regions of Syria.

Experts point out that the difference between the two approaches lies in their priorities. According to current data, the policies of the interim government tend to increase revenue by raising tariffs without any regard for the living conditions of citizens, while the Autonomous Administration focuses on balancing revenue with protecting citizens' purchasing power.

Given these circumstances, observers warn that implementing the new system without accompanying measures to mitigate its effects could lead to a new wave of inflation, further complicating access to basic necessities and weakening the purchasing power of residents in the region.

Sh-S

ANHA