The Syrian Federation of Chambers of Commerce is witnessing active movement to vitalize its role in supporting the business environment and contributing to the development of economic policies. In this context, the Federation's specialized committees stand out as technical arms working to develop the technical and organizational activities and operations of the Federation.In a move reflecting this approach, the newly formed Taxes and Fees Committee in the Syrian Federation of Chambers of Commerce held its first meeting, chaired by Nashat Al-Rifai. The meeting was attended by Louai Al-Bounni, Director of the Specialized Committees Office at the Federation, alongside committee members: Manal Al-Shiah, Khaldoun Al-Farraj, Wesam Abu Zaid, and Abdul Rahman Al-Rifai.The meeting discussed the committee's work plan for the upcoming phase, and the mechanisms to enhance its role in following up on tax and customs dossiers related to the business sector. This comes in line with current economic changes and responds to the needs of the commercial community.Participants stressed the importance of holding periodic meetings on a monthly basis to ensure continuous follow-up on the issues raised. They also emphasized preparing a clear work program that defines the committee's priorities and courses of action during the coming period. Furthermore, deliberations tackled the tax evasion dossier and ways to curb it through practical measures that contribute to enhancing tax compliance and establishing a culture of commitment among taxpayers.The attendees highlighted the importance of spreading tax awareness among economic activities, considering it a fundamental pillar for building a more efficient and transparent tax system, thereby strengthening trust between taxpayers and the authorities responsible for tax collection.The committee also discussed the need to prepare accurate studies and statistics on tax revenues and customs duties, as this data represents an important tool to support economic decision-making and develop relevant legislation. Emphasis was placed on the importance of updating tax and customs laws and regulations to match economic variables and enhance the competitiveness of the business environment.Meanwhile, the Chairman of the Committee, Nashat Al-Rifai, pointed out the necessity for the committee to play an active role within the various entities associated with its work. He stated that the committee must be a partner in studying and expressing opinions on new laws and circulars, particularly those directly reflecting on private sector activities.He added that rebuilding trust between the business sector and the state represents one of the primary goals of the committee's work. This will be achieved by studying the impacts of economic decisions and evaluating their outcomes to help provide a more stable and clear business environment, and to boost the commercial sector's contribution to the economic development process.This step is viewed as an indicator of the Syrian Federation of Chambers of Commerce's endeavor to activate its role as a representative of the private sector and a partner in drafting economic policies through its specialized committees, which work to convey the visions and proposals of the business community to the relevant authorities and contribute to developing a legislative environment more suitable for economic and investment activity
3/6/2026
