Higher diesel and petrol prices are increasing transport and food costs in Syria, which is already facing economic hardship. The fuel price hike took effect at midnight on Sunday, leading to public demonstrations across the country. A government decree raised diesel prices by 40 percent and petrol prices by 28 percent, which many Syrians view as a threat to their survival.
Protests erupted in various cities, including Aleppo, Idlib, Hama, and Deraa, with demonstrators burning tires and blocking key roads, including the main highway between Damascus and Aleppo. Although the intensity of the protests has decreased in some areas, discontent remains. On Wednesday, protesters in northeastern Syria blocked the M4 highway near Tal Tamr, preventing hundreds of oil tankers from passing, demanding a reversal of the price increases.
The government's decision is attributed to rising international oil prices, influenced by the ongoing conflict involving the United States, Israel, and Iran. The United Nations reports that nearly 90 percent of Syrians live below the poverty line, making any increase in fuel costs significantly impact transport and food prices.
Since February, the price of 95-octane petrol has increased by approximately 86 percent, while diesel prices have more than doubled. In the same timeframe, benchmark Brent crude prices rose by about 44 percent.
Syria is still recovering from a prolonged civil war, which officially ended with the fall of President Bashar al-Assad's regime in December 2024. The new government is attempting to improve the economy and lift international sanctions, but many citizens feel that progress is slow.
In Damascus, minibuses have raised fares from 30 to 45 cents due to the fuel price increase. Drivers report that their earnings are being consumed by fuel costs. One bus driver, Adel Ali Meree, stated, "I spent all my money on diesel. I only have four and a half dollars left."
Bashar Sleiman, who operates a tour bus, noted that the cost to fill his tank increased from $84 to $120, and he anticipates raising his daily rates by at least $15 to cover the added expenses.
Cross-border transport is also affected, with Ahmed Sweid, a driver for the Shaheen transport company, reporting that a round trip now requires $280 in diesel. The company has maintained ticket prices at $40 but is concerned about future financial viability.
Local markets are feeling the impact as well. In Damascus's Mezzeh neighborhood, produce seller Ahmed Obeid reported that delivery freight charges tripled overnight, increasing from $4 to $12 per load. He stated, "When fuel prices go up, transport costs go up. That extra cost is passed on to the consumer. But people don’t have money."
Damascus officials attribute the high fuel prices to the costs of securing fuel internationally. The Ministry of Energy reports that Syria produces about 100,000 barrels of crude oil daily, while domestic needs are estimated at 300,000 to 325,000 barrels. Approximately 60 percent of Syria's diesel supply is imported.
The People’s Assembly in Syria planned to question Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir regarding the price increases, but the session has been postponed until September 20 for further preparation. The government claims the price hikes are temporary, but many Syrians, facing inflation and damaged infrastructure, find it challenging to wait for market stabilization.