São Paulo – Syria is seeking investments to cultivate and produce herbs and medicinal and aromatic plants such as the Damascene rose and extract its oil. The announcement was made by the director-general of the Syrian Investment Agency (SIA), Madian Diyab. The news was published by SANA, the country’s official news agency.
The two investment opportunities are in the inland governorates of Damascus and Quneitra. Diyab said facilitations and stimuli would be provided for the two projects, including providing infrastructure and services required for production plants. The SAI would also secure the proper location by partnering with local administration or providing state property.
According to SANA, projects for manufacturing aromatic and medicinal oils require investment in high technology; in the two Syrian provinces, there is no competition from companies such as pharmaceutical and perfumery manufacturers, despite the availability of raw inputs.
According to UNESCO, the Damascene rose is part of the culture and tradition in parts of Syria, such as Al-Mrah village in rural Damascus. In addition to the expertise in producing essential oils and traditional medicine from the Damascene rose, local families make handicrafts with the flower and even have an annual festival dedicated to it. The Damascene rose begins blooming in May, when harvest and the yearly festival occur.
Translated by Elúsio Brasileiro
