Baladna has signed a memorandum of understanding with Turkiye-based Gurmen Group to explore the development and operation of a textile manufacturing facility in Syria. The agreement lays out a framework for cooperation focused on supporting industrial development, attracting international expertise, and generating new opportunities for local manufacturing and employment — marking a concrete step in Baladna’s growing investment interest in Syria textile investment.
The MoU was signed at Eighteeth Tower in Lusail, Doha, by Ramez Al Khayyat, President of Baladna, and Remzi Gur, Chairman of the Board of Gurmen Group. The signing ceremony was attended by Saifullah Khan, Group Chief Finance and Investment Officer of Baladna; Paul Kenny, Chief Executive Officer; and Yasemin Gür Solmaz, Chairman of Gürmen Group, along with senior executives and representatives from both organisations.
Joint Feasibility Study to Determine Commercial Viability
Under the terms of the MoU, the two companies will jointly assess the feasibility of establishing and operating a textile manufacturing facility in Syria through a potential joint venture. The collaboration is designed to bring together their respective expertise and capabilities to explore opportunities for developing a competitive textile manufacturing business, with the potential to serve both domestic and international markets.
The proposed cooperation aims to support the growth of the local textile industry, encourage knowledge transfer, create employment opportunities and strengthen Syria’s manufacturing capabilities. The project will be evaluated through a joint feasibility study and business plan to determine its commercial viability and the requirements for implementation.
Marek Warzywoda, Group Chief Executive Officer of Baladna, stated: “Our cooperation with Gürmen Group reflects our commitment to exploring investments that support Syria’s economic recovery and the development of its productive sectors. We see considerable potential in the textile industry, particularly through partnerships that combine international industrial expertise with local capabilities. Our ambition is to contribute to building sustainable industries that create employment opportunities, strengthen local production and support Syria’s competitiveness in regional and international markets.”
Yasemin Gur Solmaz, Chairman of Gurmen Group, said: “Syria has a long history in textile manufacturing and a strong foundation of industrial knowledge and skilled talent. Through our cooperation with Baladna, we aim to explore the development of a modern textile manufacturing operation that benefits from our experience in production, technology and international markets. We believe that combining our respective strengths can help establish a competitive and sustainable business while contributing to the development of the local textile industry.”
Baladna’s Broader Investment Plans in Syria
The Syria textile investment agreement is part of Baladna’s wider and expanding investment strategy in the country. The company is already advancing the development of an integrated dairy farm and processing facility in Syria, alongside strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening local production and supporting national food security.
Baladna is also collaborating with the International Finance Corporation to explore opportunities in the dairy sector and to expand the participation of local farmers and livestock producers. As part of its broader investment plans, the company is pursuing opportunities across agriculture and industry, including textile manufacturing, sugar production and strategic crops.
These combined initiatives are expected to generate substantial direct and indirect employment, attract international expertise, introduce modern technologies, and contribute to the recovery of Syria’s productive sectors and its longer-term economic development.
About Gurmen Group
Founded in 1985, Gurmen Group is a prominent Turkish business group with operations spanning textiles, fashion and retail. The group carries extensive experience in apparel manufacturing, industrial operations and international markets, bringing considerable technical knowledge and operational capabilities to the proposed cooperation with Baladna.
