The war in Syria has had a fundamental impact on local economies in Syria, which are not only affected by ongoing military operations, destruction and continued displacement, but are also subject to fragmentation, international sanctions and domination by different political factions. Under these divisions, local economies have developed in different ways regarding trade relations inside Syria and with neighbouring countries. New patterns of economic activity have emerged, shaping the political economy on a local level. These patterns are unlikely to change in the near future and will therefore continue to affect local communities, their living standards and socio-political relations. For this publication, local researchers have produced five studies that provide an insight into crucial aspects of the Syrian economy today, such as the economic consequences of family dispersion and the significance of informal money transfers (Hawala). The other papers offer specific case studies that analyse the political economy of besieged areas, with Southern Damascus as an example, the war�s repercussions on vital economic branches such as the olive sector, and the provision of infrastructure by a neighbouring country such as Turkey�s electricity supply in A�zaz.