Gov’t to buy supplies from local manufacturers

AMMAN — The Cabinet on Sunday approved a decision to buy supplies for ministries and public departments from local manufacturers, provided that there are offers from at least three local companies. 

The decision is aimed at stimulating the national economy and was taken due to border closures with Syria and Iraq, which decreased exports to these countries and to traditional markets, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The public purchases listed in the decision include stationery, food items, clothes, shoes, furniture and electric devices, according to Petra. 

Later on Sunday, the Amman Chamber of Industry (ACI) commended the Cabinet decision, noting that it is in the best interest of local industries.

ACI President Ziad Homsi said the move comes “at the right time”, especially under the current circumstances affecting local industries, noting that it will increase the sector’s ability to create more jobs and support the national economy, Petra reported.

Homsi, who is also a senator, said this decision will also enable the local industry sector to deal with competition in the local market, urging Jordanian manufacturers to commit to national standards.