The aftermath of the Assad regime’s collapse in Syria has ushered in a period of profound instability, with its repercussions spilling over into Lebanon. The economic impact is particularly acute, as challenges in regulating import and export operations across the Lebanese-Syrian border exacerbate existing vulnerabilities. Instead of fostering stability, the borders have become increasingly porous, enabling smuggling activities that harm Lebanese production and ignite security tensions. A stark example of these tensions was the recent clashes between the Lebanese army and Syrians in Maaraboun, near the border.

Ibrahim Al-Tarshishi, head of the Lebanese Farmers and Growers Association, highlighted that the situation remains precarious, with new hurdles emerging. Speaking to Al-Modon, Al-Tarshishi noted that while the new Syrian authorities’ initial measures seemed promising, the situation quickly took a negative turn.

"The first week saw a positive impact on Lebanese production as Syrian authorities allowed imports of bananas and other goods and halted smuggling. We viewed this as a hopeful sign," he said.

However, the optimism was short-lived. Syrian authorities imposed a $66-per-ton tax on Lebanese bananas and halted trucks leaving Lebanon, citing drivers’ lack of valid residency permits or entry visas. This has significantly disrupted trade flows, further compounding Lebanon’s economic challenges.

Currently, Lebanese exports are in a state of stagnation, with trade operating at minimal levels. Al-Tarshishi warned of worsening conditions as Syrian measures continue to obstruct legitimate trade routes.

“These measures act as barriers to lawful import and export,” he said, adding that smuggling networks, emboldened by a lack of enforcement, are flourishing.

Over 300 tons of Syrian potatoes are smuggled into Lebanon daily, undermining local farmers’ ability to sell their produce. These goods flood markets in areas such as Tripoli, Abdeh, Sin El Fil, Beirut, Qob Elias, Bekaa, Sidon, and the south. Al-Tarshishi also pointed to smuggling’s detrimental impact on Lebanon’s poultry sector, with chicken meat and eggs entering the market illegally, further damaging an already struggling industry.

The allure of smuggling’s financial rewards has widened its scope, with Turkish goods now being smuggled through Syria into Lebanon. This adds to the strain on Lebanese production and intensifies the competition faced by local producers in an already fragile economy.

The surge in smuggling has also raised security concerns. Smuggling routes, which require protection, have led to an increase in border-related violence. The recent clash between the Lebanese army and a group of Syrian gunmen is a case in point. According to an army statement, the incident occurred while troops were blocking an illegal crossing in Maaraboun–Baalbek. Syrian individuals attempted to reopen the crossing using a bulldozer, prompting the army to fire warning shots. The situation escalated when the Syrians fired back, injuring a soldier and sparking an exchange of gunfire. The army has since implemented strict military measures in the area.

Al-Tarshishi warned that such incidents are indicative of the challenges ahead.

“This is a glimpse of the difficulties we will face if Syrian authorities fail to combat smuggling along the border,” he said.

Smuggled goods are inundating Lebanese markets, further destabilizing the economy. The tightening of controls at official border crossings has inadvertently encouraged smuggling, as many goods that previously entered Lebanon legally now traverse illegal routes.

“Smuggling routes remain secure, so goods that were once imported legally are now being smuggled,” Al-Tarshishi explained.

The unchecked influx of smuggled goods poses a severe threat to Lebanese exports and creates unfair competition in the local market. Faced with these challenges, Lebanese exporters are considering strikes, road blockades, and efforts to intercept smuggling trucks to draw attention to their plight.