Canada, the United States, and the European Union have each
introduced significant — though not uniform — changes
to their sanctions regimes targeting Syria. These developments open
new pathways for humanitarian assistance, commercial activity,
investment, and financial engagement, while simultaneously
increasing the complexity of cross-border compliance
obligations.
While the regulatory landscape is shifting toward
relaxation, sanctions are far from
eliminated. Businesses must continue to navigate
substantial restrictions, heightened due diligence expectations,
and divergent international frameworks.
1. Canada Announces Major Easing of Syria Sanctions
On February 18, 2026, Canada enacted the
most extensive update to the Special Economic Measures
(Syria) Regulations since their introduction.
