In a dramatic turn of events, Syria has witnessed widespread protests following a significant increase in fuel prices. The unrest, sparked by the government’s decision to raise diesel and petrol prices, has led to demonstrations in several key cities, highlighting the economic challenges the country faces as it seeks to recover from years of conflict.
The government announced the price hikes on Sunday, citing a sharp rise in global fuel costs and ongoing maintenance at the Baniyas refinery. This critical infrastructure project aims to boost the refinery’s capacity from 80,000 to 130,000 barrels per day, a move that officials hope will stabilize fuel supplies in the long term.
Protests spread across Syria
Protests erupted in cities such as Hama, Khan Sheikhoun, and Maarat al-Numan, with footage showing crowds gathering on the streets and burning tires. The demonstrations also prompted a fierce debate on social media, reflecting the public’s frustration with the rising costs.
A protester burns tires on the highway between Aleppo and Turkiye to protest against fuel price increases in Syria on September 13, 2026 [Mahmoud Hassano/Reuters]
The economic context
Syria currently produces about 102,000 barrels of oil per day, far below the 325,000 barrels needed for domestic consumption. This shortfall has forced the country to rely heavily on imports, a situation that has been exacerbated by the recent price increases.
Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir explained that the price hikes were necessary due to the rising global costs of securing fuel. The Ministry of Energy has indicated that it will continue to review prices as market conditions change and will work to expand refining and storage capacity in the future.
The role of the Baniyas refinery
The Baniyas refinery plays a crucial role in Syria’s economic recovery. The ongoing overhaul aims to increase its capacity significantly, which could help alleviate the country’s fuel shortages. However, the temporary increase in prices has put additional strain on the population, leading to the recent protests.
According to the state-run Syrian Arab News Agency (SANA), the government is committed to long-term solutions to improve fuel supplies. This includes expanding refining and storage capacity, which is essential for the country’s economic stability.
The path forward
As Syria seeks to rebuild after 14 years of war, the availability of fuel remains a critical factor in its economic recovery. The recent protests highlight the delicate balance between implementing necessary economic measures and addressing the immediate needs of the population.
The government’s ability to manage these challenges will be crucial in determining the country’s future economic stability. With ongoing efforts to expand refining capacity and stabilize fuel supplies, there is hope that Syria can overcome these difficulties and achieve long-term economic growth.
