Syria's central bank on Sunday issued detailed guidelines for the launch of a new national currency, confirming plans to remove two zeros from the Syrian pound as part of a major monetary reform planned for 2026.
Central Bank Governor Abdulkader Husrieh said under the reform, every 100 old pounds will be exchanged for one new pound. The exchange process will start on Jan. 1, 2026, and run for 90 days, with a possible extension if needed. Both old and new banknotes will circulate during the transition. Vendors will be required to accept both.
Husrieh stressed that the currency exchange would be carried out free of charge, with no commissions, fees, or taxes imposed under any circumstances.
The measure constitutes a direct currency replacement and will not increase the overall money supply. He described it as a key step to maintain price stability during the transition.
Starting from Jan. 1, 2026, all bank account balances and electronic accounts within Syria will be denominated in the new Syrian pound. Husrieh noted that the new currency forms part of a broader monetary reform package aimed at improving cash circulation, simplifying daily transactions, and strengthening financial stability after years of economic strain. The new banknotes feature enhanced security measures against counterfeiting while highlighting Syria’s culture, history, and geographical characteristic.
Syria's central bank issues guidelines on launching new currency
