Protests have erupted across several Syrian cities after the government raised fuel prices by up to 40 percent, with demonstrators blocking a major highway for several hours.

The government increased diesel prices by up to 40 percent and petrol prices by 28 percent on Sunday. Authorities described the increases as temporary, citing a sharp rise in global fuel costs.

The government also pointed to an ongoing overhaul of the Baniyas refinery as a contributing factor. The upgrade is expected to raise the facility's capacity from 80,000 to 130,000 barrels per day.

Protests were reported in Hama, Khan Sheikhoun, and Maarat al-Numan. Demonstrators burned tyres and blocked the highway between Aleppo and Turkey. The price increases also prompted fierce debate on social media.

Syria is currently producing around 102,000 barrels of oil per day, while domestic consumption requires approximately 325,000 barrels per day, according to Syrian Energy Minister Mohammed al-Bashir. The country is relying on imports to make up the difference.

The Ministry of Energy said it would continue to review prices as global market conditions change. It also pledged to work toward expanding refining and storage capacity over the long term, according to state media.

Syria's fuel supplies are considered critical to the country's economic recovery as it seeks to rebuild after 14 years of war.