The Syrian government has decided to increase the prices of petroleum products, which has sparked a wave of dissatisfaction and protests among citizens. The Syrian Ministry of Energy has announced that the prices of some petroleum products have risen by 25 to 40 percent.
Details of the Price Increase
According to the new rate list, the price of diesel has increased from 125 Syrian pounds to 175 Syrian pounds, indicating a 40 percent rise. Additionally, the price of 95-octane gasoline has risen from 152 pounds to 195 pounds, and 90-octane gasoline has increased from 147 pounds to 185 pounds. The price of household liquefied gas has risen from 1470 pounds to 1600 pounds, which is estimated to be about 8.8 percent.
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These changes have been implemented since Sunday, September 13, 2026 (22 Shahrivar 1405) and have quickly resonated on social media. Negative reactions to this decision have also manifested in the streets, with protests occurring in several provinces, including Idlib and Hama.
Public Reactions and Economic Consequences
Participants in these protests have called on the government to cancel the price increases and have protested against wage increases in line with rising living costs. Protesters chanted slogans criticizing government policies and demanding accountability from officials. In Idlib, the protests intensified, and some demonstrators blocked the international highway between Damascus and Aleppo.
The Syrian Ministry of Energy has explained that the current need for oil and petroleum products in the country is about 300,000 barrels per day, while domestic crude oil production is estimated to be around 100,000 barrels per day. This compels Syria to meet part of its needs through imports.
However, some social media users have warned about the consequences of rising fuel prices, deeming it a threat to citizens' purchasing power. Supporters of this decision believe that the price increase is not unexpected given the current global energy market conditions, while opponents argue that addressing the economic crisis requires a more gradual approach.
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