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This is the VOA Special English Economics Report. Eighteen months of conflict in Syria have hurt the country’s economy. But in the capital, Damascus, a certain level of normalcy exists. Prices are higher. But goods are still available. VOA reporter Elizabeth Arrott recently visited Damascus. Her visit took place under the guidance of a Syrian government official. She says the Spice Market of Old Damascus is an unusual sight in a country affected by civil war. Syrian military forces are striking nearby towns were rebels have support. But in the center of Damascus, business is good. One man operates a business once by his father and grandfather. He sells cumin, dried peppers, pine nuts and almonds. He says work is about the same, but prices have gone up. This has affected both his customers and business. He is thankful that supplies are still arriving at his shop. But he says people are cutting back, and mainly buying only essential goods. Another shopkeeper says business has fallen. “You know we live in a very difficult atmosphere, the atmosphere of crisis.” Afif Dala is with the Syrian Ministry of Economy and Trade. He says Western restrictions on Syria for its violent reaction to government opponents have caused problems. But the government has worked to keep business in the capital normal. “But the Syrian economy actually depends on itself. There is a self-sufficiency in the Syrian economy because the Syrian economy is very diverse." | 
