Analysis: Trump’s Middle East tour has more substance than the White House let on

In a bold foreign policy twist, President Trump just lifted U.S. sanctions on Syria during his Middle East tour, backing rebel-turned-leader Ahmed al-Sharaa in hopes of stabilizing the war-torn nation. While headlines focused on Qatar’s $20 billion Boeing jet deal, this move could unlock a new trade corridor. For the paper packaging industry, that means potential access to reconstruction-driven demand in Syria—think humanitarian aid packaging, infrastructure materials, and export-ready cartons. If Syria opens, expect a surge in regional corrugated demand and renewed supply chain routes connecting Europe, the Gulf, and the Levant.https://www.cnn.com/2025/05/15/politics/trump-syria-sanctions-israel-middle-east-tour

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