Country: Syrian Arab Republic Source: World Food Programme Please refer to the attached file. HIGHLIGHTS The Central Bank of Syria officially announces the launch of a new currency in January 2026 to address challenges in the banking sector and liquidity constraints. Recent trade policy adjustments include the suspension of chicks and hatching egg imports to support domestic poultry production, alongside the authorization of tomato imports to mitigate rising local market prices. The cost of living in January 2026, as measured by the Minimum Expenditure Basket (MEB), increased by 7 percent to SYP 2.4 million, from SYP 2.2 million in December 2025. This decrease was driven by higher prices for vegetables and fruits. The parallel market exchange rate appreciated from SYP 11,827 per USD in December 2025 to SYP 11,702 per USD in January 2026. Meanwhile, the official exchange rate remained stable at SYP 11,055 per USD.