Syria begins official rollout of new currency

Syria’s central bank officially began the exchange of the country’s new currency, following months of preparations.

A decree issued earlier this week by Syrian President Ahmad al-Sharaa said that “old Syrian currency” will be gradually withdrawn from circulation according to a timetable set by the central bank and through designated exchange centers, Associated Press reported.

The new Syrian pound has been in circulation as of January 3.

On Monday, Syria unveiled new banknotes, including a redenomination that removes zeros and eliminates portraits in a step toward reinforcing national identity and restoring confidence in the economy.

Since the ouster of the Assad al-Assad regime in December 2024, Syria’s new administration has launched economic and political reforms aimed at improving conditions across the country.