Summary
The Syrian government has regained control of major oil and gas fields from the Kurdish-led Syrian Democratic Forces (SDF) in the northeast. This development could help Syria's energy sector recover after years of war and economic sanctions, although challenges remain such as damaged infrastructure and the need for investment. Foreign investments may increase now that many sanctions are lifted following the end of the al-Assad regime.
Key Facts
- The Syrian government took control of key oilfields, including al-Omar, the largest in the country.
- The handover of these fields from SDF to the Syrian government was part of a ceasefire agreement.
- Syria's energy sector has been struggling due to war damage and sanctions.
- Damaged infrastructure and lack of investment are major challenges for Syria's energy recovery.
- Syria has about 2.5 billion barrels of oil and 8.5 trillion cubic feet of natural gas reserves.
- Before the conflict, Syria produced 380,000 barrels of oil per day.
- By 2019, production had dropped to between 15,000 and 30,000 barrels per day.
- The lifting of many sanctions has opened the door to potential foreign investment.
