From Foundation to Prominence

SMTA was founded on June 10, 1953, in Aleppo, and within months extended its presence to Lattakia, Damascus, and Tartous — covering Syria’s key maritime and economic zones.

That same year, SMTA was appointed the exclusive Lloyd’s Agent in Syria, entrusted with surveys, inspections, and claims settlement services on a nationwide scale — a role that firmly established our international credibility.

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Pioneers in Marine Representation (1950s–1980)

From the mid-1950s until the nationalization of maritime agencies in 1980, SMTA served as official agent for over 48 international shipping companies, including:
   •    Major oil firms: BP, Shell Tankers, Standard Oil, Anglo Iranian Oil Co.
   •    European & Asian lines: Co. Française d’Armement Maritime, K.N.S.M., NYK, Splosna Plovba, Hellenic Lines
   •    British and Mediterranean lines

This period marked SMTA as one of the most prominent and diverse shipping agencies in the region.

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Multisector Expertise

Over the decades, SMTA built a reputation for service across multiple sectors:
   •    Marine Cargo Surveying & Claims Handling
Serving major underwriters, including the Lloyd’s Agency Network and various Far East insurance markets.
   •    Airline Representation
General Sales Agent (GSA) for KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, with a large network of over 150 travel agents and deep market knowledge.

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Endurance Through Change

SMTA continued to operate through periods of conflict, nationalization, and instability. Despite the evolving political and economic landscape, our core values of integrity, precision, and professionalism remained non-negotiable.

While some agency roles were suspended due to regional dynamics, SMTA has preserved its independence, retained its infrastructure, and remains a respected name in both local and international circles.

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Carrying the Legacy Forward

Today, SMTA continues to draw strength from its past while preparing for the future.

We focus on our core services — marine surveying, airline representation, and travel coordination — while gradually reactivating select partnerships and exploring opportunities for strategic realignment.

Our enduring presence in Syria’s major ports and economic hubs ensures we remain ready to support clients with precision, neutrality, and decades of industry insight.

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  • Freight Forwarding & Logistics

  • Partnering with Levant Express & Schenker, serving key industrial and commercial clients in northern and western Syria.

  • Licensed Travel & Tourism
    Managing reservations, ticketing, and passenger support via licensed branches in Aleppo and Tartous.

  • Hospitality Representation
    GSA for select international hotels, including the Hilton Mersin (Turkey).