Syria Signals Major Investor Policy Shift, Embraces International Arbitration to Attract Foreign Capital

In a significant move to rebuild investor confidence and attract foreign capital, the Syrian Investment Authority (SIA) has announced its commitment to adopting international arbitration standards for resolving investment disputes. The policy shift was detailed by SIA’s Director-General, Talal Al-Helali, following Syria’s participation in Paris Arbitration Week, signaling a clear intent to align its investment framework with global best practices.

Quick Facts

• Adopting international arbitration via the International Chamber of Commerce.
• Engaging global bodies like the ICC and LCIA.
• World Bank prepared to offer up to $1.5B for projects.

Building Trust Through Global Dispute Resolution

Talal Al-Helali confirmed that Syria’s participation in the Paris event was a strategic move to send a positive message to the global investment community. He emphasized that Syria will now accept the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC) as an arbitration body in investment contracts. This decision aims to increase transparency and provide reliable legal guarantees for foreign investors considering opportunities in the country.

The SIA delegation held meetings with key institutions, including the Paris International Arbitration Court and the ICC, to discuss cooperation and learn from advanced international experiences in dispute resolution. Further discussions took place in London with representatives from the London Court of International Arbitration (LCIA), hosted by the law firm Hogan Lovells and attended by the Syrian-British Business Council.

New Investment Law to Anchor Reforms

According to Al-Helali, these arbitration reforms are designed to complement Syria’s new investment law. The legislation introduces a range of facilities and guarantees intended to stabilize the business environment and create a more attractive proposition for foreign capital. The combined measures underscore Syria’s push to reintegrate into the global economy.

As part of this effort, plans are underway to establish a modern Syrian arbitration center based on international standards. However, Al-Helali stressed that investors will be given the freedom to choose their preferred arbitration venue, whether inside Syria or through reputable international institutions, reinforcing contractual freedom and building trust. Local arbitration mechanisms are also being developed with specialized training and procedures aligned with global models.

World Bank Puts $1.5B on the Table for Reconstruction

In a related development, Al-Helali revealed that a meeting was held with World Bank representatives to discuss support for Syria’s reconstruction phase. The Bank expressed its readiness to provide financial support of up to $1.5 billion to fund approximately ten critical projects in infrastructure and development.

Discussions also covered plans to restructure Syria’s banking sector and reintegrate it into the international financial system—a crucial step for restoring investor confidence and facilitating capital flows.

About Syrian Investment Authority

The Syrian Investment Authority (SIA) is the government body responsible for investment in Syria. Its mission is to promote the country as a major investment destination, provide a one-stop-shop service for investors, and work on continuously enhancing the investment climate.

Source: SANA