Deputising for King, Khasawneh inaugurates UGC Jordan paint factory in Zarqa

AMMAN — Deputising for His Majesty King Abdullah, Prime Minister and Minister of Defence Bisher Khasawneh on Monday inaugurated a UGC (JOTUN Jordan) paint factory in Zarqa, launching the plant’s full operation phase.

The factory, which produces paint and construction chemicals, was built during the pandemic in 2020, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

During the ceremony, Khasawneh reiterated the government’s support for local products that contribute to enhancing sustainable development and providing jobs for Jordanians.

He also highlighted the government’s endeavours to improve the investment climate in the Kingdom, notably support local investments and attract further foreign investments, stressing that the new electricity tariff would help in cutting operation costs in vital various sectors to push forward the economic wheel, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The premier toured the factory, which reflects the Norwegian JUTON’s 100 years of experience, taking a first-hand look on the production lines, 

CEO of the factory Shadi Anabtawi briefed the gathering on the products, noting that reducing the costs of transport and storage would directly improve prices and enhance competitiveness.  

JOTUN CEO Morten Fon expressed pride in establishing the first factory of the company in Jordan, stressing the “solid” ties between Jordan and Norway, Petra reported.

The factory produces some 15 million litres of paint a year, with the production capability could reach 35 million litres by 2024.