Damascus, 18 January 2026 – The Ministry of Economy and Industry, and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in partnership with the Government of Japan, launched a series of local and sectoral workshops as part of the eighth edition of the Syrian Private Sector Dialogue (PSD8). The workshops mark the start of nationwide private sector discussions on economic recovery and the potential development of the business environment in Syria. 

For the first time since the launch of the Syrian Private Sector Dialogue in 2018, the eighth edition is being held inside Syria, following seven previous editions conducted outside the country. This shift reflects enhanced national ownership of the dialogue process and enables broader geographic and sectoral participation, while linking discussions more directly to the country’s current economic context.

The preparatory workshops, implemented in partnership with the Syrian Forum, are being conducted across several governorates, bringing together private sector actors of different sizes and sectors, including small and medium enterprises, entrepreneurs, women, and youth. Dedicated consultation sessions will also engage Syrian private sector representatives in the diaspora. The workshops follow an evidence-based, participatory approach to identify key challenges, opportunities, and priorities at the local and sectoral levels.

The outcomes of the workshops will inform a rapid diagnostic assessment of the private sector and the business environment in Syria. This assessment will serve as a key input to the National Syrian Private Sector Dialogue, scheduled to take place in Damascus from 07 to 09 February 2026. The national dialogue will convene government representatives, private sector actors from inside Syria and the diaspora, experts, and international partners to discuss shared economic priorities and develop practical, actionable recommendations.

Through the eighth edition of the initiative, UNDP aims to reach more than 500 participants across all stages of the dialogue process, including preparatory workshops, specialized consultation sessions, and the national dialogue, reflecting the diversity of the Syrian private sector.

The Syrian Private Sector Dialogue is part of UNDP’s broader support to economic recovery and sustainable development in Syria. By promoting structured public–private dialogue and evidence-based policy discussions, the initiative seeks to strengthen partnerships, support a more inclusive business environment, and contribute to economic recovery and job creation.

Media contacts: 

Dania Darwish | Communications Specialist | UNDP Syria Country Office | dania.darwish@undp.org