From 1 August, the Assad regime will force Syrians visiting their country to exchange USD $100 for Syrian pounds.

As the official exchange rate is 53% of the actual rate in the black market, the new requirement is effectively an entry tax.

Why was it imposed?

While the tax will give the regime a new source of US dollars, I think it primarily aims to filter out the least fortunate Syrians abroad from returning as the situation, especially in Lebanon, continues to deteriorate by the hour.

I told Enab Baladi...(starting at 11th paragraph)

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