Syria remains classified in the E:1 category, which restricts exports of dual-use goods, technology and software, and also limits foreign-made goods with more than 10 percent US-origin content. The classification dates to Syria’s former designation as a state sponsor of terrorism.
Rubio lifted the designation
Secretary of State Marco Rubio formally rescinded that designation on Aug. 24. It followed the Trump administration’s earlier removal of Syria from the terrorism blacklist, a step taken more than two months before the lawmakers’ appeal.
Rubio described the move as another historic step toward helping the Syrian people prosper.
The Commerce Department had already loosened restrictions on many civilian exports to Syria back in September 2025. But the country still sits in E:1, which means restricted exports require individual licenses.
Licensing delays deter investors
Experts say the licensing process often takes months to complete. That delay, they say, has discouraged investors from committing capital to a country emerging from nearly 14 years of civil war.
Source: Commerce Department
