USSEC is resuming its presence in Syria after years of inactivity, following eased restrictions that reopen the market for U.S. Soy. The organization plans to rebuild ties with the country’s feed and oilseed industries, which once relied heavily on its technical support. Industry stakeholders say the renewed engagement could help Syria meet rising protein demand amid demographic growth.

Jim Sutter
USSEC CEO

The U.S. Soybean Export Council (USSEC) has announced plans to restart activities in Syria, marking a renewed phase in a relationship that began in 1995 and paused in 2010. In its earlier tenure, the organization supported the development of Syria’s poultry and edible oilseed sectors through technical training and capacity-building programs. Jim Sutter, USSEC CEO, highlighted the strategic value of the re-entry, saying, “As we seek to diversify global markets for U.S. Soy, Syria has great potential, and we look forward to getting our feet on the ground and building partnerships with the industry once again.”

Syria’s population of 23 million is projected to grow by 60% and reach 37 million by 2050, driving long-term demand for high-quality protein sources. Ammar Bardan, Chairman of Bardan Import and Export Commodity Trading, said “With the anticipated growth and revitalization of the Syrian economy, and given that U.S. soybeans and soybean meal are widely recognized for their quality and performance in both the feed and oil industries, we foresee a significant increase in the demand for soy products in the Syrian market in the coming period.”

The poultry sector remains central to Syria’s food security, and renewed cooperation with U.S. Soy could strengthen supply chains that rely on consistent protein inputs. Historically, U.S. Soy was a key supplier to several Middle Eastern feed markets.