Syrian crews convert Baniyas vessel into 20,000-sheep livestock carrier

Converted livestock vessel departs Baniyas

A specialized livestock transport vessel departed Baniyas Port after being converted from a commercial ship into a carrier capable of transporting about 20,000 sheep. Syrian technical teams completed the conversion in a record six months, equipping the six-deck vessel to comply with international standards for safe long-distance livestock transport. The General Authority for Land and Sea Ports and Customs said the project was carried out entirely by local workshops, highlighting growing domestic expertise in ship maintenance and rehabilitation.

Part of wider port development push

The authority framed the launch as part of broader efforts to develop Syria’s port sector, noting recent strategic agreements including a 30-year BOT shipyard deal with a Turkish firm (with at least $190 million in planned investment) and a separate $800 million investment agreement with DP World for Tartus. Officials say these projects aim to localize maritime industry skills, create thousands of jobs, reduce dependence on foreign repair yards, and help turn Syrian ports into integrated maritime hubs, as reported by Enab Baladi