As the Syrian government prepares to issue new banknotes and cut zeros from the country’s depreciated currency, many Syrians care most about easier everyday transactions.
Following an initial burst of activity when the regime fell and displaced people returned, markets in Reef Dimashq are faltering and facing new challenges.
Syrian markets are experiencing instability in the prices of basic goods as the black market exchange rate of the pound fluctuates sharply, while the Central Bank of Syria takes a hands-off approach.
The Central Bank of Syria aims to close the gap between the Syrian pound’s official exchange rate and its black market price, following a “momentary improvement” in its value when the regime fell.
