This case study examines export promotion not as a narrow technical exercise, but as a core component of economic governance, using Türkiye’s experience as a case study with direct relevance for post-sanctions and post-conflict contexts such as Syria. It argues that rebuilding productive capacity and generating sustainable growth require far more than the lifting of external restrictions; they depend on the deliberate construction of legal, institutional, and financial systems that enable national products to compete internationally.

The analysis shows how Türkiye has combined compliance with multilateral trade rules and deep integration into global markets with the strategic use of policy space to support its exporters. Central to this model is a coherent governance framework anchored in legislative harmonization, strong institutional coordination led by the Ministry of Trade, and the active deployment of economic diplomacy. Export policy is thus framed as an extension of state capacity and inter-ministerial coherence, rather than a collection of isolated incentive schemes.

The article highlights the effectiveness of targeted incentives that address market-entry barriers, risk exposure, branding, and technological upgrading, while avoiding distortionary production subsidies. Financial instruments such as export credit, insurance, and cost-recovery schemes are shown to generate high multiplier effects, especially when combined with investments in industrial zones, technology parks, and digital transformation. Particular emphasis is placed on small and medium-sized enterprises, whose support is presented as central to job creation, regional stabilization, and resilience in crisis and recovery settings.

Risk management and what the authors describe as “smart protectionism” form another pillar of the Turkish experience. By aligning export controls, financial stabilization tools, and selective safeguards with international trade rules, Türkiye has managed to protect strategic sectors and mitigate external shocks without undermining its credibility as a trading partner.

Drawing lessons for Syria, the article concludes that reconstruction requires an export-oriented strategy grounded in legal certainty, unified governance, smart incentives, SME support, and disciplined use of policy space. Sanctions relief, while necessary, is insufficient unless paired with a deliberate effort to rebuild the institutions and incentives that underpin competitiveness and long-term economic stability.