GRANDE SICILIA © Marc Ottini

Grimaldi resumes activity in Syria after lift of sanctions

Ro-roGrimaldi Lines’ 4,300 CEU/3,100 lane metre GRANDE SICILIA carrying cars, machinery and heavy equipment docked at the Syrian port of Latakia 4 October, reopening Grimaldi Lines’ route between Syria and Italy after more than seven years of suspension due to western sanctions.

Ali Adra, head of public relations at Latakia Port, said to the Syrian Arab News Agency, that the shipment reflects growing confidence in Syrian ports and could boost trade and maritime activity. He added that recent steps to simplify customs and unloading procedures have already led to a rise in traffic in recent months.

Fadi Marcos, local agent for Grimaldi Group, stated that the arrival is a breakthrough in economic and diplomatic relations, hoping for continued cooperation and more vessels to follow. Latakia Port has according to the Syrian Arab News Agency received more than 330 ships since the start of the year, officials say, helped by streamlined procedures and new equipment installed under an agreement with French shipping giant CMA CGM.

Oct 10 2025