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The problem of Shanghai's exports to Syria
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TRACKING NO. 20260220 / GLOBAL Zhongshen Trade · 23+ Years of Expert Trade Agency
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or complex compliance issues.
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We are a trading company based in Shanghai and recently want to export a batch of industrial equipment to Syria, but we've heard that the sanctions there are very strict, logistics are not smooth, and collecting payments is a major challenge. Could you please advise us on how to avoid risks in terms of compliance, transportation, and payment collection when exporting from Shanghai to Syria at present?
Eric ZhouYears of service：6Customer Rating：5.0
Senior Manager of Foreign Exchange & Tax RebatesStart a Chat
Syria is currently under international sanctions，and the risk of export compliance is extremely high. First，you must verify whether the product's HS code falls under China's "Control List for the Import and Export of Dual-Use Items and Technologies" or the military export control list. Second，even if the product is not subject to Chinese controls，you need to screen whether the end user is listed on the sanctions lists of the United Nations，the United States，the European Union，or China. It is recommended to obtain the complete company information of the Syrian buyer，including the registration number，address，and beneficiaries，through official channels for compliance screening. Regarding documents，it is essential to require the other party to provide a detailed and authentic end-use description and end-user declaration. Special reminder: Many Chinese banks directly reject transactions involving Syria. You need to confirm in advance with the bank whether you can handle the collection of funds，otherwise，the goods may be shipped but the payment may not be received. Overall，it is recommended to evaluate the situation carefully and avoid transactions unless absolutely necessary.
Evelyn LiYears of service：3Customer Rating：5.0
Cross-border Compliance SupervisorStart a Chat
From Shanghai to Syria, current shipments primarily rely on maritime transport, but there are very few direct routes. The vast majority of shipments require transfers at Jebel Ali Port in Dubai or Port Said in Egypt. When booking shipping space, it is essential to specify whether the destination port is Latakia or Tartus, and to confirm the transfer connection time at the transit port to avoid prolonged port congestion. The choice of carriers is extremely limited, and freight rates also include high war risk surcharges. It is recommended to adopt the FOB Shanghai clause, transferring transportation responsibilities and risks to the freight forwarder designated by the Syrian buyer, but ensuring that the forwarder has local customs clearance capabilities in Syria. Insurance must include war risk coverage, otherwise losses will not be compensated. For documentation, invoices, packing lists, and certificates of origin must be accurate and error-free. Syrian customs inspections are extremely rigorous, and any discrepancies will lead to customs clearance delays or fines. The entire transportation cycle is expected to take 45-60 days, so sufficient time must be reserved.
Jason WuYears of service：10Customer Rating：5.0
International Logistics & Supply Chain ManagerStart a Chat
Doing business with Syrian clients, collecting payments is the biggest challenge, but with the right strategies, it's still feasible. You must abandon the illusion of traditional USD wire transfers and actively propose RMB settlement solutions. By using Chinese banks with extensive experience in Syrian operations, such as Kunlun Bank, the success rate will be higher. If the client insists on USD, you can try transferring payments through agents in third countries (e.g., the UAE or Lebanon), but this will incur additional intermediary fees. During contract negotiations, it's essential to stipulate that "receiving valid payments" is a prerequisite for delivery to avoid selling on credit. In communication, be honest about China's strict compliance requirements and seek the client's understanding and cooperation in providing proof of non-sanctioned affiliations. Additionally, embed sanctions clauses in the contract, stipulating that neither party will hold the other accountable if contract performance is hindered by international sanctions. In the early stages, it's crucial to pilot small orders to verify the smoothness of payment channels before scaling up transaction amounts.