DAMASCUS: Syria’s state grains agency has issued a new international tender to purchase and import 100,000 tonnes of soft milling wheat, European traders said on Wednesday.  The tender deadline is Jan. 28.

 Shipment of 50,000 tonnes was sought within one month of the opening of a letter of credit on the purchase with shipment of the remaining 50,000 tonnes sought within two months of the letter of credit opening.

  Wheat and other foods are excluded from Western trade sanctions imposed on Syria due to the government’s attempt to suppress the current uprising in the country. But traders say difficulties in financing grains sales because of banking sanctions have deterred international firms from participating in Syrian tenders.