Nationwide Order on Butcher Shops
Syria's Ministry of Economy and Industry issued a circular on Thursday, 23 April 2026, instructing provincial directorates of internal trade and consumer protection to tighten supervision over white and red meat sellers. The directive sets out how meat may be ground, how it must be offered to the public, and what information has to be displayed to shoppers at the point of sale.
The circular was addressed to all provincial trade directorates, making the rules binding across the country rather than in specific governorates.
Pre-Ground Meat Banned
Under the new rules, butchers may no longer grind meat in advance or keep it on display already ground. Grinding must take place only when a customer requests it, and in the customer's direct view. The ministry said the measure is intended to rule out adulteration and make any substitution of low-quality cuts visible to the buyer before payment.
Labeling and Hygiene Requirements
Shops are required to clearly show the type of meat on offer — beef, lamb, or chicken — alongside its price, in a format that is visible and legible for consumers. The circular also insists on strict compliance with general hygiene standards and with the cleanliness and safety of the tools used for grinding.
Penalties Under Decree 8 of 2021
Inspectors have been directed to take legal action against shops that breach the new rules, in line with Legislative Decree 8 of 2021. The ministry framed the tightened oversight as part of a broader effort to curb fraud in the food sector, strengthen market supervision, and raise the quality of services provided to citizens.
Part of Wider Market Oversight
The directive applies the same standards to red and white meat outlets across the country and requires directorates of internal trade and consumer protection in every governorate to enforce it. The ministry said the new requirements are aimed at curbing adulteration and manipulation that harms consumers, and fit within ongoing work to improve food safety monitoring.