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Baladna and Gürmen Group Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Develop Textile Manufacturing in Syria
Baladna for Trading and Investment L.L.C. (“Baladna”), a subsidiary of Baladna Q.P.S.C., signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Türkiye-based Gürmen Group to explore the development and operation of a textile manufacturing facility in Syria. The agreement establishes a framework for cooperation aimed at supporting industrial development, attracting international expertise and creating new opportunities for local manufacturing and employment.The MoU was signed today at Eighteeth Tower in Lusail, Doha, by Ramez Al Khayyat, Baladna’s President, and Remzi Gür, Honorary Chairman of Board of Gürmen Group. The signing ceremony was attended by Saifullah Khan, Group Chief Finance and Investment Officer of Baladna, Paul Kenny, Chief Executive Officer, and Yasemin Gür Solmaz, Chairman of Gürmen Group, alongside senior executives and representatives from both companies.Under the MoU, the two companies will jointly assess the feasibility of establishing and operating a textile manufacturing facility in Syria through a potential joint venture. The collaboration brings together their respective expertise and capabilities to explore opportunities for developing a competitive textile manufacturing business, with the potential to serve both domestic and international markets.The cooperation aims to support the development of the local textile industry, encourage knowledge transfer, create employment opportunities and strengthen Syria’s manufacturing capabilities. The proposed project will be evaluated through a joint feasibility study and business plan to determine its commercial viability and implementation requirements.Marek Warzywoda, Group Chief Executive Officer of Baladna, said: “Our cooperation with Gürmen Group reflects our commitment to exploring investments that support Syria’s economic recovery and the development of its productive sectors. We see considerable potential in the textile industry, particularly through partnerships that combine international industrial expertise with local capabilities. Our ambition is to contribute to building sustainable industries that create employment opportunities, strengthen local production and support Syria’s competitiveness in regional and international markets.”Yasemin Gür Solmaz, Chairman of Gürmen Group, added: “Syria has a long history in textile manufacturing and a strong foundation of industrial knowledge and skilled talent. Through our cooperation with Baladna, we aim to explore the development of a modern textile manufacturing operation that benefits from our experience in production, technology and international markets. We believe that combining our respective strengths can help establish a competitive and sustainable business while contributing to the development of the local textile industry.”Baladna continues to advance its investment strategy in Syria through the development of an integrated dairy farm and processing facility, alongside strategic partnerships aimed at strengthening local production and supporting the country’s food security. The company is also collaborating with the International Finance Corporation to explore opportunities to develop the dairy sector and expand the participation of local farmers and livestock producers.As part of its broader investment plans, Baladna is pursuing opportunities across agriculture and industry, including textile manufacturing, sugar production and strategic crops. These initiatives are expected to have a significant impact on employment, creating substantial direct and indirect job opportunities, attract international expertise and introduce modern technologies, contributing to the recovery of Syria’s productive sectors and long-term economic growth.Founded in 1985, Gürmen Group is a prominent Turkish business group with operations in textiles, fashion and retail. The group has extensive experience in apparel manufacturing, industrial operations and international markets, bringing technical knowledge and operational capabilities to the proposed cooperation.Ends##
Baladna Syria and GrowFast Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Support Entrepreneurship and Innovation
Baladna Syria and GrowFast Sign Memorandum of Understanding to Support Entrepreneurship and InnovationDamascus, November 2026Baladna Food Industries LLC – Syria (“Baladna Syria”), a subsidiary of Baladna Q.P.S.C., signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with GrowFast for Investment and Entrepreneurship. The MoU establishes a general framework for cooperation to support entrepreneurship and innovation and help startups and other promising ventures grow. The parent company is a leading food producer and a pillar of food security in Qatar.Ahmad Al Husseini, Chief Operating Officer of Baladna Syria, and Mohammad Al-Badarneh, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of GrowFast, signed the MoU at the Royal Semiramis Hotel in Damascus. Dr. Kamel Abdallah, Chief Executive Officer of Baladna Syria, Marwan Dimas, Executive Director of Power International Holding Syria, and Malek Ajaj, Investment Director of GrowFast, witnessed the signing. Senior executives from both companies also attended.Under the MoU, the parties aim to coordinate their efforts and draw on their expertise and resources to support entrepreneurship and innovation. They intend to develop joint programmes and initiatives to identify promising ventures, support their growth, help eligible ventures access development, financing and investment opportunities, and strengthen ties with organisations that support entrepreneurs. The parties will agree on the details, implementation arrangements and requirements for these programmes and initiatives in subsequent agreements or implementation annexes.The signing ceremony also recognised the winning ventures from the previous season of “Nassaj Al Mustaqbal”, a competition for entrepreneurs in the textile industry.The parties also announced the launch of the “Entrepreneurship Acceleration and Empowerment Programme in Agricultural and Food Technologies”. The programme will help entrepreneurs, as well as students, graduates and researchers at Syrian universities, turn their ideas and research into practical solutions and ventures with the potential to grow. As part of this cooperation, Baladna also announced a competition for startups in agriculture and agricultural technology. The results and awards are due to be announced in May 2027. Support includes training at Syrian universities, mentoring and technical advice to help participants develop prototypes and assess their feasibility in areas such as smart farming, water management, crop and livestock production, and agricultural supply chains. The cooperation aims to draw on Baladna’s expertise in agriculture and food production and GrowFast’s experience in entrepreneurship training and business acceleration. GrowFast will coordinate implementation with Baladna under arrangements to be agreed by both parties.Dr. Kamel Abdallah, Chief Executive Officer of Baladna Syria, said, “We believe Syrian talent is a cornerstone of economic recovery. Alongside their commercial objectives, our investments in Syria carry a social responsibility towards a country whose potential we believe in. Through this initiative, we help entrepreneurs turn their ideas into productive businesses that can grow. Our support begins with cash awards and extends to helping entrepreneurs develop their capabilities and make their products more competitive. This is part of our broader vision to strengthen food security, create sustainable jobs and develop an agricultural and industrial sector in which Syrian farmers and entrepreneurs are active partners in growth.”Mr. Mohammad Al-Badarneh, Deputy CEO of GrowFast, added: “Working with Baladna will help us connect young people’s ideas and university research with the needs of the agricultural sector. Through training, mentoring and specialist guidance, we aim to help participants test their ideas, develop viable solutions and build business models capable of succeeding in the market.”This cooperation forms part of Baladna’s activities in Syria, which include developing a farm and a dairy processing facility with the aim of bringing its products to the Syrian market in 2028. Baladna is also working with the International Finance Corporation to assess the dairy sector and support the development of its value chain with the participation of small-scale livestock producers and farmers.Beyond the dairy sector, Baladna is exploring a portfolio of major agricultural and industrial projects spanning cotton and textiles, sugar beet and sugar production, strategic crops, and citrus. These projects would adopt a contract farming model that connects Syrian farmers directly to markets and secures a stable income for them. They are expected to create approximately 50,000 direct and indirect jobs. Baladna is also committed to bringing the latest agricultural and industrial technologies to Syria and attracting specialist international partners to enhance productivity and improve supply chain efficiency.GrowFast is an investment and entrepreneurship platform that works to develop industrial and productive sectors through its entrepreneurship initiative “Syria Up” and programmes that offer investment, business acceleration, training and connections to investment opportunities. GrowFast uses specialist methods to design and run entrepreneurship support programmes and draws on a network of experts, mentors and service providers. Its portfolio includes more than 14 industrial projects and more than 30 strategic partners.Ends
Baladna, Al Dahra Sign MoU on Global Farming, Feed Supply Partnership Spanning Syria and Beyond
Baladna, Al Dahra Sign MoU on Global Farming, Feed Supply Partnership Spanning Syria and Beyond Supporting global dairy expansion and integrated agribusiness operations Abu Dhabi, UAE – May 6, 2026 Baladna has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with Al Dahra Holding to explore a strategic partnership focused on global farming collaboration and long-term animal feed supply, supporting its dairy operations across multiple markets, including Syria. The MoU, signed in Abu Dhabi during the Make it in the Emirates 2026 forum, establishes a framework for cooperation in key agribusiness activities. These include the development of farming platforms, management of agricultural operations, and the supply of feed commodities tailored to Baladna’s requirements. Under the proposed partnership, Al Dahra would act as a global farming partner and strategic supplier, providing grains and other feed inputs while working closely with Baladna to align product specifications, volumes, and delivery schedules across its operations. The collaboration is expected to support Baladna’s expansion strategy, including its presence in Syria and other international markets. The MoU was signed by Mr. Marek Warzywoda, Group Chief Executive Officer of Baladna, and Mr. Wissam Abbas, Managing Director of Al Dahra GCC. The signing ceremony was attended by Mr. Saifullah Khan, Group Chief Financial Officer of Baladna, Mr. Maurice A. Ghattas, Board Member of Baladna Algeria, and Mr. Arnoud van den Berg, Group Chief Executive Officer of Al Dahra. Marek Warzywoda, Group CEO of Baladna, said: “This agreement represents a strategic step in strengthening Baladna’s global supply chain capabilities as we expand our dairy operations internationally. Partnering with a leading agribusiness player such as Al Dahra allows us to secure a reliable, high-quality feed supply while building an integrated farming platform that supports long-term food security and sustainable growth across key markets, including Syria.” Arnoud van den Berg, Group CEO of Al Dahra, said: “Our collaboration with Baladna reflects a shared vision to develop efficient and scalable agricultural systems that respond to growing global demand. By aligning our expertise in feed production and supply chain management with Baladna’s expanding dairy platform, we are well positioned to deliver tailored, end-to-end solutions that support productivity and long-term value creation across markets.” The agreement is expected to lay the foundation for long-term collaboration, enabling both companies to develop large-scale farming and feed supply solutions across key markets, including Syria.
Baladna and IFC Formalize Advisory Engagement to Assess the Viability of Syria's Dairy Value Chain
Baladna Food Industries has signed an advisory agreement with the International Finance Corporation (IFC), the private sector arm of the World Bank Group, to assess the feasibility of rebuilding and scaling Syria's dairy sector.The engagement will focus on evaluating ground-level conditions, including milk production capacity, collection logistics, and transport constraints. It will also examine demand, processing requirements, and overall market viability to determine whether sustainable, large-scale dairy production can be restored."By grounding potential future investments in practical realities on the ground, we aim to help restore domestic dairy production in a way that supports nutrition, creates jobs, and delivers long-term value," said Mr. Marek Warzywoda, Group CEO of Baladna. "This engagement reflects our commitment to applying Baladna’s integrated dairy expertise to markets where rebuilding food systems is both urgent and impactful."Mr. Wagner Albuquerque, IFC Regional Industry Director for Manufacturing, Agribusiness and Services, said the initiative reflects the AgriConnect approach: "building direct, practical links between smallholder farmers, market infrastructure, and private sector investment, so that farmers are active participants in resilient, inclusive value chains."The advisory work will focus on reintegrating small and medium-sized dairy farmers into structured, commercially viable supply chains. It will be delivered in phases, beginning with analytical and field assessments before advancing toward practical, scalable supply-chain models tailored to Syria's current conditions.
Baladna Signs $635M Contracts and Launches Airlift of 30,000 Dairy Cows to Algeria
Baladna has reached a major milestone in its $3.5 billion Algeria dairy project, signing over $635 million in second-phase contracts and launching a 109-flight airlift carrying 30,000 Holstein cows from nine US states. This marks one of the largest coordinated livestock airlifts globally.The operation forms part of a long-term plan to establish a herd of 270,000 animals across 117,000 hectares, positioning the project as one of the largest integrated dairy developments in the world.Once operational, the facility is expected to supply up to 50% of Algeria's powdered milk demand. The project will also generate more than 15,000 jobs locally and around 1,200 in the United States, contributing to economic development across both markets."This milestone reflects Baladna’s ability to execute complex, large-scale dairy projects and deliver tangible impact on national food security," said Mr. Marek Warzywoda, Group CEO of Baladna. "Our investment in Algeria is designed to build a long-term, sustainable dairy ecosystem that supports local production, job creation, and supply stability."For Baladna, the Algeria venture represents a significant step in its international growth strategy, reinforcing its role as a global leader in large-scale dairy development and a strategic partner in advancing food security.
Baladna partners with global cheese producer Bel Group to expand dairy offerings in Qatar
Qatar’s leading food and dairy producer, Baladna, has announced a strategic partnership with global cheese and snack giant, The Bel Group. The landmark collaboration brings new opportunities for both companies, starting with the production of The Laughing Cow® cheese jars in 2023. Baladna also aims to produce more of Bel Group’s products in the near future.Producing popular products by international brands such as Bel not only reduces imports and supply chain disruptions, but also provides a more responsible, environmentally conscious option for Qatari consumers.Commenting on the partnership, Malcolm Jordan, Chief Executive Officer of Baladna, said: “We are pleased to sign this partnership with Bel Group, who are world leaders in cheese products. This collaboration will allow us to expand the dairy offerings in Qatar and provide customers with even more high-quality products. As a leading dairy brand in Qatar, Baladna is committed to supporting food sustainability efforts in the country. We are excited to benefit from Bel Group’s unparalleled know-how as we look to expand our range of dairy products and make international brands more accessible in the Qatari market. We believe this partnership will have a positive impact on the dairy industry in Qatar and improve consumer choices.”Garo Matossian, Chief Executive Officer at BEL for Near & Middle East, said: “The Bel Group is deeply committed to making our products accessible to new consumers and building sustainable partnerships with local producers around the world. This strategic partnership with Baladna in Qatar is an exciting step forward in our presence in the Middle Eastern Gulf, in line with our mission to deliver healthier and responsible food for all. We are proud to partner with Baladna – they are Qatar’s homegrown company. By combining their expertise with our delicious cream cheese, and our knowledge of cheese products, this partnership will enable us to offer consumers, delicious, nutritious, and accessible cheese products, and become a leader in the region’s fast-growing dairy market.”The partnership with Bel Group is part of Baladna’s ongoing commitment to expanding its successful production model and ensuring self-sufficient dairy production in Qatar. As a homegrown Qatari brand, Baladna is dedicated to providing high-quality, locally-sourced products to the Qatari market and promoting sustainable food production with minimal impact on the environment. The company already exports its dairy and juice products to countries across the region, including Yemen, Afghanistan, Iraq, and Oman.
Baladna has announced its sponsorship of the 13th edition of HH The Amir’s Sword Showjumping and Dressage Championship
For the fourth consecutive year, Baladna has announced its sponsorship of the 13th edition of HH The Amir’s Sword Showjumping and Dressage Championship, which will be held at the Al-Rayyan Racecourse at the Racing and Equestrian Club in Qatar from February 20 – February 22. The aim is to contribute to the continuity and development of equestrian sport in the country and organize and host tournaments that support, develop, and encourage the birth of a new generation of promising Qatari equestrians.A partnership agreement was recently signed between Baladna and the Qatar Racing and Equestrian Club in the presence of Mr. Moataz Al-Khayyat, Chairman of the Board of Directors at Baladna, and His Excellency Mr. Badr Muhammad Al Darwish, President of the Qatar Equestrian Federation.This is the fourth consecutive time Baladna sponsors this championship as preparations for the event are in full swing amid anticipation and excitement to see who will come out victorious during the race. The championship is expected to be the biggest race at the club this season.Regarding the partnership, Mr. Moataz Al-Khayyat said: “We at Baladna are pleased to cooperate with the Racing and Equestrian Club through the sponsorship of HH The Amir’s Sword Showjumping and Dressage Championship, which is considered to be the most expensive horse racing festival in Qatar and the region and one of the most prominent sporting events in the nation.”“Our sponsorship of this prominent sporting event stems from our constant commitment to serving the Qatari community and investing in the Qatar National Vision 2030. Baladna continuously seeks to support and sponsor major sporting events in the country and contribute to securing Qatar’s position in the global sports arena,” he added.“Good luck to all participants in HH The Amir’s Sword Showjumping and Dressage Championship. We hope fans and the wider public enjoy the show.”The championship will be held across three days at the Al-Rayyan Racecourse with a sizeable number of participants. Several races will be held daily with different race lengths and various types of horses.
The Special visit of King of Malaysia to Baladna
Baladna was honored by the visit of His Majesty the King of Malaysia Al-Sultan Abdullah Ri’ayatuddin Al-Mustafa Billah Shah and His Royal Highness Tuanku Syed Faizuddin Putra Jamalullail, the Crown Prince of Perlis, to Baladna Farms with their delegation on December 15. The visit follows a joint agreement between Baladna and several Malaysian companies to establish a state-of-the-art integrated dairy farm in Malaysia.Ambassador of Malaysia to the State of Qatar H.E. Zamshari Shaharan; Baladna board members, and representatives from Malaysia’s Touch Group Berhad and FGV Holdings Berhad were also present.