Syria’s General Authority for Borders and Customs and CMA CGM Sign Strategic Logistics Partnership
Shipping Arabia, July 11, 2026 – Syria’s General Authority for Borders and Customs and CMA CGM have signed a long-term strategic partnership covering port development, inland logistics, air cargo and rail connectivity, supporting efforts to modernize the country’s transport infrastructure and strengthen its position as a regional trade and transit hub.
The agreement was signed at the People’s Palace in Damascus by Qutaiba Badawi, chairman of the General Authority for Borders and Customs, and Rodolphe Saadé, chairman and chief executive officer of CMA CGM.
The signing took place in the presence of Syrian President Ahmed al-Sharaa and French President Emmanuel Macron.
The partnership establishes a unified framework for current and future transport and logistics projects between the two parties, with the aim of developing a modern and integrated logistics network, improving the competitiveness of the Syrian economy, supporting export growth and attracting investment.
Key projects covered by the agreement include the development and operation of the container terminal at the Port of Latakia and the completion of dry port projects in Damascus and Aleppo.
The partnership also includes the establishment of an integrated logistics zone at the Nassib border crossing and the development of air cargo facilities at Damascus International Airport.
The parties will prepare a plan to rehabilitate railway connections linking Syria’s ports with major inland logistics centers, supporting more efficient cargo flows and stronger connectivity between maritime gateways and domestic markets.
Cooperation will also extend to professional training, workforce development and initiatives with a broader social impact.
The agreement is intended to integrate investments across Syria’s transport and logistics network, improve infrastructure efficiency and support the country’s reintegration into regional and international supply chains.
CMA CGM, one of the world’s largest shipping and logistics groups, operates in more than 160 countries and has maintained a presence in Syria for more than 30 years. The partnership is expected to establish a new phase of cooperation focused on developing ports, border crossings and logistics services in line with international standards.
#ShippingArabia #CMACGM #Syria #LatakiaPort #PortDevelopment #Logistics #DryPorts #RailFreight #Maritime #SupplyChain
