Syria has a fragmented and developing product compliance system due to ongoing political instability and economic challenges. Regulatory enforcement focuses primarily on public health, import control, and basic consumer safety. The country relies heavily on import permits, acceptance of recognized foreign certifications, and selective enforcement of national standards through the Syrian Arab Organization for Standardization and Metrology (SASMO).

Key Authorities:

• Syrian Arab Organization for Standardization and Metrology (SASMO) – Responsible for developing Syrian National Standards (SAS) and managing conformity assessment programs.

• Ministry of Health – Regulates pharmaceuticals, medical devices, cosmetics, and food supplements.

• Syrian Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (SYTRA) – Oversees telecom and RF equipment regulation, including type approval and frequency management.

• Syrian Customs Authority – Enforces import regulations and verifies documentation at points of entry.

Key Compliance Elements:

• Accepted Standards:

  • Syria accepts products that comply with:

    • ISO, IEC, and Codex Alimentarius standards

    • Recognized foreign certifications (CE, FCC, GCC, FDA) for many regulated goods

  • SASMO standards are enforced for certain critical products such as food, construction materials, and electrical appliances.

• Product Registration (Ministry of Health):

  • Required for:

    • Medicines and vaccines

    • Medical devices and diagnostics

    • Cosmetics and food supplements

  • Registration involves:

    • Product dossiers including safety and efficacy data

    • Certificate of Free Sale or GMP certification from the country of origin

    • Labels in Arabic

    • Import permits for controlled items

• Telecom Type Approval (SYTRA):

  • All telecom and RF devices require type approval before import or sale.

  • Requires:

    • CE or FCC certification as supporting evidence

    • Technical specifications and frequency compatibility information

    • Applications submitted through a local importer or authorized representative

• Labeling Requirements:

  • Labels must be in Arabic, and include:

    • Product name

    • Manufacturer/importer contact details

    • Country of origin

    • Usage instructions and safety warnings

    • Expiry or batch number (for health-related products)

    • Certification or approval number (if applicable)

• Import Oversight:

  • Importers must provide:

    • Invoice and packing list

    • Certificate of origin

    • CoC or recognized foreign certification

    • Product registration certificates (for regulated products)

    • Telecom type approval certificate (if applicable)

    • Import licenses and customs declaration

• Market Surveillance:

Conducted by SASMO, Ministry of Health, and Customs. Inspections are primarily focused on critical health products and essential consumer goods. Non-compliant products may be confiscated, denied entry, or banned from sale.