Syria

Description of Syria

Syria, located in the heart of the Middle East, has been a focal point of global attention in recent years due to its ongoing civil war and complex geopolitical dynamics. Despite its rich history and cultural heritage, the country has faced significant challenges that have impacted its economy, society, and overall development. As a geopolitical and macroeconomic analyst, delving into the intricacies of Syria's macroeconomic statistics provides valuable insights into how the country navigates its path forward amidst adversity and uncertainty.

Population And Age Structure

For Population, total, Syria's population of 20,772,595 is below the average population of 40,097,746. Syria ranks 60 out of 194 countries in total population.

The percentage of Population ages 0-14 in Syria is 34.47%, above the average of 27.34%. This places Syria at rank 55 out of 194 countries in this demographic.

In terms of the total Population ages 0-14, Syria's 7,160,123 is below the average of 10,327,379. Syria ranks 56 out of 194 countries for this age group.

The percentage of Population ages 15-64 in Syria is 60.98%, slightly below the global average of 63.44%. Syria ranks 138 out of 194 countries in this demographic.

The total Population ages 15-64 in Syria is 12,667,075, significantly below the average of 26,003,407. Syria ranks 58 out of 194 countries for this age range.

The percentage of Population ages 65 and above in Syria is 4.55%, much lower than the average of 9.22%. Syria is ranked 126 out of 194 countries for this demographic.

In terms of the total Population ages 65 and above, Syria has 945,397 individuals, which is well below the average of 3,766,959. Syria ranks 70 out of 194 countries in this age group.

Summary

Syria's total population is below the global average, with a significant portion of individuals in the younger age group (0-14 years old). However, the country has a below-average population in the working-age group (15-64 years old) and a much smaller percentage of the population aged 65 and above compared to the global average.

These demographic indicators are crucial as they provide insights into the country's dependency ratio, healthcare needs, and workforce dynamics. A high percentage of youth may strain resources for education and healthcare, while a smaller working-age population can impact economic productivity and support for the elderly population.

Population Miscellaneous

For Rural population, Syria's value of 9,248,998 is significantly below the attribute average of 18,044,041. Syria is ranked 59 out of 190 countries in this category.

In terms of Rural population (% of total population), Syria's value of 44.525% is above the attribute average of 41.158%. Syria ranks 79 out of 190 countries for this metric.

Syria's Urban population of 11,523,597 is notably lower than the attribute average of 22,425,747. Syria holds the 54th position out of 194 countries in terms of Urban population.

The Urban population (% of total population) in Syria is 55.475%, below the attribute average of 59.691%. Syria ranks 116 out of 194 countries in this regard.

Syria's Age dependency ratio (% of working-age population) stands at 63.99%, surpassing the attribute average of 59.22%. Syria is ranked 57 out of 194 countries for this indicator.

With a Birth rate of 19.67 per 1,000 people, Syria is slightly above the attribute average of 19.38. The country holds the 81st position out of 192 countries in terms of Birth rate.

Syria's Death rate of 4.99 per 1,000 people is significantly below the attribute average of 8.21. Syria is placed at the 181st position out of 192 countries for this metric.

The Fertility rate in Syria is 2.798 births per woman, slightly higher than the attribute average of 2.603. Syria is ranked 68 out of 190 countries in this aspect.

Summary

Syria has a relatively low rural population compared to the global average, but a higher percentage of its total population lives in rural areas. The country also has a lower urban population and a lower urban population percentage compared to the global average. Despite a higher dependency ratio, Syria has a slightly higher birth rate and fertility rate but a significantly lower death rate compared to the global average. These indicators are important as they provide insights into Syria's demographic composition, urbanization level, and population trends, which are crucial for policymakers in areas such as healthcare, infrastructure development, and social welfare planning.

Military

Analysis of key stats for Syria:

1. Arms imports (SIPRI trend indicator values): Syria's arms imports value of 84,000,000 is below the average of 205,522,123. Syria ranks 43 out of 113 countries in this attribute.

2. Armed forces personnel, total: Syria has 269,000 armed forces personnel, which is above the average of 165,908. Syria ranks 26 out of 164 countries in this attribute.

3. Armed forces personnel (% of total labor force): Syria's percentage of armed forces personnel in total labor force is 5.39%, significantly above the average of 1.28%. Syria ranks 4 out of 164 countries in this attribute.

Summary

Syria stands out in terms of its military capabilities compared to other countries. With above-average levels of arms imports and armed forces personnel, Syria ranks relatively high globally. The high percentage of armed forces personnel in the total labor force indicates a significant allocation of resources towards military activities, potentially impacting the country's economy and overall development.

Natural Resources

1. Syria has a Forest area of 5220.8 sq. km, ranking 136 out of 191 countries. This value is significantly below the average Forest area of 211606.11 sq. km among 191 countries.

2. In terms of Land area, Syria's 183630 sq. km places it at rank 87 out of 194 countries, well below the average Land area of 665166.51 sq. km.

3. Syria's Surface area of 185180 sq. km ranks 87 out of 194 countries, showing a considerable deviation from the average Surface area of 689779.56 sq. km.

4. With 4660617 hectares of Arable land, Syria ranks 51 out of 190 countries, falling short of the average Arable land of 7329543.16 hectares.

5. The Land under cereal production in Syria spans 2904822 hectares, placing it at rank 47 out of 174 countries. This value is notably lower than the average of 4206011.63 hectares.

6. Syria receives an Average precipitation of 252 mm per year, ranking 155 out of 178 countries. This value is significantly lower than the average of 1157.83 mm per year.

7. Syria's Renewable internal freshwater resources total 7.132 billion cubic meters, positioning it at rank 131 out of 178 countries. This value is notably below the average of 240.41 billion cubic meters.

Summary

Syria's key macroeconomic indicators reveal a concerning pattern of limited natural resources, particularly in terms of forest area, land area, arable land, and freshwater resources. These statistics indicate a vulnerability in food security, environmental sustainability, and water management within the country. Addressing these resource challenges is crucial for Syria's long-term economic development, resilience to climate change, and overall stability.

Resource Rents

Syria's total natural resources rents account for 6.37% of its GDP, which is above the average of 4.63%. This places Syria at rank 42 out of 175 countries in the dataset.

In terms of forest rents, Syria's value is 0.03% of GDP, well below the average of 1.53%. This places Syria at rank 134 out of 174 countries.

Syria's oil rents contribute 4.02% to its GDP, higher than the average of 2.51%. This places Syria at rank 20 out of 117 countries.

Natural gas rents in Syria represent 2.33% of its GDP, surpassing the average of 1.25%. This places Syria at rank 11 out of 96 countries.

Summary

Syria stands out among nations for its significant reliance on natural resources, with both total natural resources rents and oil rents contributing notably to its GDP. However, the country's low forest rents indicate a potential area for development. The high rankings in natural gas rents suggest a lucrative sector that could drive economic growth and investment in Syria.

Commodities

Analysis of key production and consumption metrics in Syria:

Summary

In Syria, key production metrics such as cereal, aquaculture, capture fisheries, and total fisheries production are all significantly below global averages, ranking the country low in comparison to other nations. Additionally, Syria's fertilizer consumption per hectare of arable land is extremely low, placing it near the bottom of the list globally.

These findings are crucial as they indicate a significant gap between Syria's agricultural productivity and that of other countries. The low production levels and fertilizer consumption suggest potential challenges in food security, agricultural development, and overall economic growth in Syria. Addressing these disparities and enhancing production efficiency could be vital for the country's sustainable development and self-sufficiency.

Intellectual Property

1. Industrial design applications, nonresident, by count: Syria has a value of 80, which is below the average of 1415.83. Syria ranks 78 out of 112 countries in this attribute.

2. Industrial design applications, resident, by count: With a value of 328, Syria is below the average of 9799.58. It ranks 48 out of 113 countries in this category.

3. Patent applications, nonresidents: Syria's 16 applications are significantly lower than the average of 6538.40. The country ranks 92 out of 129 in this attribute.

4. Patent applications, residents: Syria's 76 applications fall below the average of 19037.56. It ranks 72 out of 117 countries for this statistic.

5. Trademark applications, nonresident, by count: Syria's 5582 applications are below the average of 15878.93. The country ranks 64 out of 130 nations in this category.

6. Trademark applications, resident, by count: With 8189 applications, Syria is well below the average of 111055.78. It ranks 53 out of 129 countries for this attribute.

7. Scientific and technical journal articles: Syria's 453.27 articles are significantly lower than the average of 15103.76. The country ranks 97 out of 192 in this field.

Summary

Syria lags behind global averages in key macroeconomic indicators such as industrial design applications, patent applications, trademark applications, and scientific and technical journal articles. These low values indicate a lack of innovation, investment in research and development, and participation in intellectual property protection. These indicators are crucial for a country's economic growth, competitiveness, and ability to compete in the global market, highlighting the need for Syria to focus on enhancing its innovation ecosystem and knowledge-based industries to drive sustainable development.

Broad Economy Attributes

In terms of GDP (current US$), Syria's value is $11,156,757,922.03, significantly below the average of $442,870,224,838.68. Syria ranks 137 out of 189 countries included in the data.

For GDP per capita (current US$), Syria's value is $537.09, well below the average of $15,462.11. The country ranks 183 out of 190 countries in the dataset.

Regarding GNI (current US$), Syria's value stands at $10,707,497,858.05, also notably lower than the average of $452,040,815,370.70. Syria ranks 136 out of 185 countries surveyed.

Summary

Syria's GDP, GDP per capita, and GNI are all significantly below the global averages, positioning the country in lower ranks compared to a large set of nations. These indicators are crucial as they reflect the economic health and development level of a country. The low values suggest economic struggles and lower income levels for the population, indicating challenges in growth, prosperity, and overall well-being for Syria.

Broad Value Added

- Gross value added at basic prices (GVA) in Syria is $11,177,129,168.42, significantly below the average of $360,070,943,595.12. Syria ranks 128 out of 176 countries in this attribute data.
- Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) in Syria is 36.64%, much higher than the average of 10.86%. Syria ranks 4 out of 182 countries in this attribute data.
- Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added in Syria is $4,088,043,982.78, below the average of $19,924,732,828.07. Syria ranks 80 out of 182 countries in this attribute data.
- Services, value added (% of GDP) in Syria is 41.07%, below the average of 56.72%. Syria ranks 165 out of 183 countries in this attribute data. - Services, value added in Syria is $4,582,481,729.52, significantly below the average of $295,837,711,130.69. Syria ranks 142 out of 183 countries in this attribute data.
- Industry (including construction), value added in Syria is $2,486,232,209.73, significantly below the average of $118,421,095,413.50. Syria ranks 138 out of 183 countries in this attribute data.

Summary

Syria's economy is characterized by a significant disparity in key macroeconomic indicators compared to global averages. The country has a notably low Gross Value Added at basic prices, ranking low globally. However, Syria excels in the contribution of Agriculture, forestry, and fishing to its GDP, ranking high above the average. These indicators are crucial as they highlight Syria's economic structure, its reliance on the agricultural sector, and the challenges it faces in diversifying and developing other sectors to improve overall economic performance.

Manufacturing Value Added

1. Medium and high-tech manufacturing value added (% manufacturing value added): In Syria, the value is 21.52%, which is below the average of 24.49%. This places Syria at rank 80 out of 149 countries in this dataset.

Summary

In Syria, the medium and high-tech manufacturing value added accounts for 21.52% of the total manufacturing value added, placing the country below the global average of 24.49%. This indicates that Syria may have room for growth and development in high-tech manufacturing sectors to enhance its industrial capabilities and competitiveness in the global market.

Money

Inflation, GDP deflator (annual %): In Syria, the inflation rate measured by the GDP deflator is exceptionally high at 48.85%, significantly above the average of 6.90%. This places Syria at the 4th rank out of 188 countries in the dataset for this attribute.

Summary

In Syria, the inflation rate measured by the GDP deflator stands at a staggering 48.85%, far surpassing the global average of 6.90%. This places Syria among the top 5 countries worldwide for this indicator. Such a high inflation rate can signal economic instability, erode purchasing power, and negatively impact investment and savings, posing significant challenges for the country's economic development and overall stability.

Consumption Expenditure

Final consumption expenditure (current US$): In Syria, the final consumption expenditure is significantly below the average level compared to 159 countries, ranking 111th out of the total. This indicates a relatively lower level of overall spending in the country.

Final consumption expenditure (% of GDP): Syria's final consumption expenditure as a percentage of GDP is above the average level, ranking 9th out of 159 countries. This suggests that Syrian economy relies more on domestic consumption compared to the average.

General government final consumption expenditure (current US$): The general government final consumption expenditure in Syria is well below the average, positioning the country at the 128th rank out of 158 countries. This signifies a lower level of government spending in the country.

General government final consumption expenditure (% of GDP): Syria's general government final consumption expenditure as a percentage of GDP is also below average, with a rank of 132 out of 158 countries. This indicates a relatively smaller share of government spending in the economy.

Household and NPISHs Final consumption expenditure (current US$): Syria's household and NPISHs final consumption expenditure is significantly below the average level, ranking 108th out of 158 countries. This hints at lower overall household spending in the country.

Households and NPISHs final consumption expenditure (% of GDP): The final consumption expenditure by households and NPISHs as a percentage of GDP in Syria is notably higher than average, ranking 3rd out of 158 countries. This reflects a relatively higher reliance on private consumption within the Syrian economy.

Summary

Overall, Syria demonstrates a pattern of lower levels of final consumption expenditure across different sectors compared to the global average. Despite higher final consumption expenditure as a percentage of GDP in certain areas like household and NPISHs, the country ranks below average in general government and overall final consumption expenditure. This highlights a potential imbalance in the distribution of spending within the Syrian economy, with a heavier reliance on private consumption rather than government-led investment or expenditure.

These findings are crucial as they indicate the economic structure of Syria may be skewed towards private consumption, which could have implications for long-term economic development, sustainability, and resilience to external shocks. Addressing the disparities in government and private sector spending could be essential for achieving a more balanced and stable economic growth trajectory in the country.

Debt

- Syria's Total debt service (% of GNI) is significantly below the average of 5.98%, ranking 120th out of 120 countries.
- Syria's Public and publicly guaranteed debt service (% of GNI) is far below the average of 2.84%, also ranking 120th out of 120 countries.
- Syria's External debt stocks (% of GNI) are below the average of 65.42%, ranking 72nd out of 120 countries.
- Syria's Debt service on external debt, total (TDS, current US$) is substantially below the average, ranking 123rd out of 123 countries.
- Syria's Debt service on external debt, public and publicly guaranteed (PPG) (TDS, current US$) is well below the average, ranking 123rd out of 123 countries.
- Syria's External debt stocks, public and publicly guaranteed (PPG) (DOD, current US$) are significantly below the average, ranking 82nd out of 123 countries.
- Syria's External debt stocks, total (DOD, current US$) are notably lower than the average, ranking 87th out of 123 countries.

Summary

Syria ranks among the lowest in terms of total debt service, public debt service, and external debt compared to a broad set of countries. These indicators suggest that Syria has relatively low levels of debt burden and external obligations, which could indicate financial stability and lower risk of default for the country. This is important as it may signal a reduced need for international financial assistance and potentially attract foreign investment due to lower perceived financial risks.

Broad Trade Attributes

1. Trade (% of GDP): Syria has a Trade value of 48.40% of GDP, which is below the average of 82.34%. Syria ranks 121 out of 163 countries in this attribute data.

2. Merchandise trade (% of GDP): Syria's Merchandise trade value is 77.68% of GDP, above the average of 60.01%. Syria ranks 37 out of 186 countries in this attribute data.

3. External balance on goods and services (current US$): Syria has a negative External balance of $2,102,053,260.55, below the average of $3,405,509,011.13. Syria ranks 116 out of 163 countries in this attribute data.

4. External balance on goods and services (% of GDP): Syria's External balance is -18.84% of GDP, which is below the average of -5.97%. Syria ranks 138 out of 163 countries in this attribute data.

Summary

Syria's trade as a percentage of GDP is significantly below the global average, indicating potential limitations in international economic engagement. However, its merchandise trade value surpasses the average, suggesting a strength in tangible goods exchange. The negative external balance on goods and services highlights a reliance on imports and weakness in the trade balance, which could pose challenges for economic stability and growth.

Broad Export Attributes

Regarding "Exports of goods and services (current US$)", Syria has a value of 1,648,984,774.38 which is below the average of 129,596,864,610.19. Syria is ranked 131st out of 163 countries for this attribute.

As for "Exports of goods and services (% of GDP)", Syria's value is 14.78%, which is below the average of 38.19%. Syria is ranked 143rd out of 163 countries for this attribute.

Summary

Syria's exports of goods and services in terms of both total value and as a percentage of GDP are significantly below the global average, ranking 131st and 143rd out of 163 countries, respectively. This indicates a relatively low level of trade activity for the country compared to its peers. The low export values may signify challenges in economic diversification, limited access to international markets, or domestic instability affecting production and trade. Improving export performance could be crucial for enhancing economic growth, generating foreign exchange, and fostering overall economic resilience for Syria.

Merchandise Exports

Regarding Merchandise exports (current US$), Syria's value of $4,099,000,000 is significantly below the average of $89,542,711,229.95. Syria ranks 115th out of 187 countries in this attribute's data set.

For Merchandise exports by the reporting economy, residual (% of total merchandise exports), Syria's value of 4.37% is above the average of 3.20%. Syria holds the 24th rank out of 166 countries in this attribute's data set.

Summary

Syria's merchandise exports value of $4,099,000,000 is significantly below the global average of $89,542,711,229.95, ranking 115th out of 187 countries. However, Syria's residual value for merchandise exports, at 4.37%, surpasses the global average of 3.20%, placing Syria 24th out of 166 countries. These findings highlight Syria's limited overall export value but also indicate a higher reliance on residual exports compared to other countries, which may have implications for the country's trade dynamics and economic stability.

Technology Exports

1. Medium and high-tech exports (% manufactured exports): In Syria, the percentage of medium and high-tech exports is 22.69%, which is below the average of 34.29%. This places Syria at rank 89 out of 149 countries in the dataset.

Summary

In Syria, the percentage of medium and high-tech exports is 22.69%, lower than the average of 34.29%, positioning Syria at the 89th rank out of 149 countries in the dataset. This indicates a lower level of technological sophistication and innovation in Syria's manufacturing sector compared to the global average, potentially affecting its competitiveness in the international market and ability to drive economic growth through high value-added exports.

Broad Import Attributes

For Imports of goods and services (current US$), Syria's value is significantly below the attribute average of $126.19 billion. With a value of $3.75 billion, Syria ranks 123 out of 163 countries in the dataset.

As for Imports of goods and services (% of GDP), Syria's value of 33.62% is below the attribute average of 44.15%. This places Syria at rank 98 out of 163 countries in the dataset in terms of this indicator.

Summary

Syria's low value of $3.75 billion for Imports of goods and services (current US$) positions it well below the global average of $126.19 billion, ranking 123 out of 163 countries. Additionally, Syria's Imports of goods and services (% of GDP) at 33.62% is also below the average of 44.15%, placing Syria at 98 out of 163 countries for this indicator. These statistics suggest that Syria may have limited integration with the global economy and could be facing challenges in diversifying its sources of goods and services, which could impact its economic growth and resilience.

Merchandise Imports

1. Merchandise imports (current US$): Syria's merchandise imports amount to $4,568,000,000. This is significantly below the average of $89,385,605,263. Syria ranks 125th out of 190 countries in this attribute.

2. Merchandise imports by the reporting economy, residual (% of total merchandise imports): Syria's percentage of total merchandise imports allocated to the reporting economy is 52.49%. This is much higher than the average of 2.51%. Syria's rank is 2nd out of 180 countries in this category.

Summary

Syria's merchandise imports are significantly below the global average, indicating a relatively closed economy in terms of imported goods. However, the country allocates a high percentage of its total merchandise imports to its own economy, ranking second globally. This high level of domestic allocation suggests a focus on promoting local industries and self-sufficiency, which can be important for economic stability and national security.

Infrastructure

Analysis of key statistics for air transport and port traffic in Syria:

1. Air transport, freight (million ton-km): Syria's value of 1.78 million ton-km is significantly below the average of 1384.37 million ton-km, ranking 98 out of 126 countries in the dataset.

2. Air transport, registered carrier departures worldwide: With 2659 departures, Syria falls well below the average of 134365.61 departures, ranking 117 out of 149 countries.

3. Air transport, passengers carried: Syria carried 299469 passengers, much lower than the average of 11848242.70 passengers, placing it at rank 103 out of 149 countries.

4. Container port traffic (TEU: 20 foot equivalent units): Syria's port traffic of 243348 TEU is notably beneath the average of 6907110.27 TEU, ranking 94 out of 110 countries.

Summary

Syria's air transport and port traffic statistics are significantly lower than the global averages, indicating a lack of connectivity and trade volume compared to other countries. The low rankings in freight ton-km, carrier departures, passengers carried, and container port traffic suggest challenges in economic development, international trade, and integration into the global market. These indicators are crucial as they highlight areas where Syria may need to focus on improving infrastructure, logistics, and trade relations to enhance economic growth and competitiveness.

Information Technology Infrastructure

Analysis of key stats for Syria:

1. Secure Internet servers: Syria has 686 secure internet servers, significantly below the global average of 458,294. Syria ranks 125 out of 193 countries in this category.

2. Secure Internet servers (per 1 million people): The country has 33.02 secure internet servers per 1 million people, much lower than the average of 14,067.17. Syria ranks 159 out of 193 countries in this metric.

3. Individuals using the Internet (% of population): With 35.78% of its population using the internet, Syria falls below the average of 64.77%. The country ranks 146 out of 180 countries in this aspect.

4. Fixed broadband subscriptions: Syria has 1,548,100 fixed broadband subscriptions, well below the average of 6,591,956.35. Syria ranks 62 out of 185 countries in fixed broadband subscriptions.

5. Mobile cellular subscriptions: With 16,660,253 mobile cellular subscriptions, Syria is below the average of 42,526,463.87 subscriptions. The country ranks 62 out of 193 countries in mobile cellular subscriptions.

Summary

In summary, Syria lags behind global averages in key internet and communication indicators such as secure internet servers, internet usage, fixed broadband subscriptions, and mobile cellular subscriptions. These lower figures indicate a lack of widespread access to digital technologies and connectivity within the country, which could hinder economic development, innovation, and participation in the global digital economy.

Energy Consumption

Analysis of Renewable energy consumption (% of total final energy consumption) in Syria: The focus country value is 1.08%, significantly below the attribute average of 32.18%. Syria ranks 176th out of 191 countries in this dataset.

Analysis of CO2 emissions (kt) in Syria: The focus country value is 25,234.6 kt, below the attribute average of 171,895.94 kt. Syria ranks 74th out of 188 countries in this dataset.

Summary

Syria's renewable energy consumption accounts for only 1.08% of its total final energy consumption, placing it well below the global average of 32.18%. Similarly, the country's CO2 emissions stand at 25,234.6 kt, significantly lower than the average of 171,895.94 kt. These statistics indicate Syria's heavy reliance on non-renewable energy sources and relatively low carbon footprint compared to other nations. Addressing these disparities is crucial for Syria to align with global sustainability goals and reduce its environmental impact.

Taxes

The tariff rate applied in Syria is 9.21%, which is higher than the average tariff rate of 5.21%. Syria ranks 31st out of 153 countries in terms of tariff rate, indicating a higher-than-average level of trade barriers among the included countries.

Summary

Syria maintains a relatively high tariff rate of 9.21%, surpassing the global average of 5.21%. This places Syria at 31st out of 153 countries in terms of tariff rates, signifying a notable presence of trade barriers compared to other nations. These findings are crucial as they suggest that Syria's trade policies might hinder international trade and potentially limit economic growth by restricting imports and exports through higher tariffs.

Top Stats

Ranks in Top Decile For:

Attribute Rank/Total
Armed forces personnel (% of total labor force) 4/164
Agriculture, forestry, and fishing, value added (% of GDP) 4/182
Inflation, GDP deflator (annual %) 4/188
Final consumption expenditure (% of GDP) 9/159
Households and NPISHs final consumption expenditure (% of GDP) 3/158
Merchandise imports by the reporting economy, residual (% of total merchandise imports) 2/180

Ranks in Bottom Decile For:

Attribute Rank/Total
Death rate, crude (per 1,000 people) 181/192
GDP per capita (current US$) 183/190
Services, value added (% of GDP) 165/183
Total debt service (% of GNI) 120/120
Public and publicly guaranteed debt service (% of GNI) 120/120
Debt service on external debt, total (TDS, current US$) 123/123
Debt service on external debt, public and publicly guaranteed (PPG) (TDS, current US$) 123/123
Renewable energy consumption (% of total final energy consumption) 176/191