Syrian Central Bank governor announces details of the new currency
The Central Bank of Syria announced that the issuance of Legislative Decree No. 293 of 2025, concerning the launch of the new Syrian currency, marks a pivotal national milestone and the beginning of a new economic and monetary phase in the country.
Governor of the Central Bank, Abdul Qader al Hasriya, confirmed that January 1, 2026, will be the official date for launching the new currency and starting the replacement of the old one, stressing that the process will be smooth and well organized.
In statements published via the Central Bank’s official Telegram channel, al Hasriya said that the decree grants the bank broad powers to determine exchange deadlines and designate currency exchange centers, in order to ensure proper implementation and simplified procedures for citizens.
He emphasized that the transition mechanism will be announced clearly and transparently during a dedicated press conference, which will help strengthen public trust and consolidate partnership with citizens.
He added that the executive instructions regulating the issuance of the new currency will be issued by a decision of the Central Bank governor, with a focus on facilitating procedures in all regions.
He also noted that the Central Bank will continue working between December 25 and 27 to complete the final preparations.
Hasriya stated that the new Syrian currency represents a symbol of financial sovereignty after liberation and the title of a new phase achieved through collective cooperation and institutional management.
He described it as a national achievement and a solid step toward economic stability and recovery, reflecting unity and modernization following the restoration of political sovereignty.
Earlier this month, the Central Bank clarified that banking operations are continuing as usual and that services provided to citizens and investors won’t be affected during the preparation period.
The Syrian Central Bank confirmed that all details related to the new currency will be announced once the necessary technical and administrative arrangements are completed.
According to informed sources, the Syrian government reached an agreement last August with the Russian state-owned money printing company Goznak to produce the new banknotes, with plans to launch them on the first anniversary of the overthrow of former President Bashar al Assad.
The reform is expected to include the removal of two zeros from the currency in an effort to restore confidence in the Syrian pound, which has suffered severe depreciation since 2011. While the final design of the new banknotes hasn’t yet been revealed, they are expected to feature Syrian national landmarks rather than individual figures.
The Syrian pound has sharply declined since the outbreak of the crisis, with the exchange rate reaching approximately 11,500 pounds per US dollar, compared to about 50 pounds before the war, making daily transactions and remittances increasingly difficult for citizens.
