Kingdom’s industrial exports now reach 142 countries

AMMAN — The Kingdom’s industrial exports, which make up 90 per cent of the total exports, have reached 142 countries, according to Jordan Exporters Association (JEA) President Ahmad Khudari.

Jordan's industrial exports jumped from JD500 million during the late 20th century to reach JD5 billion today, Khudari said in a statement on Saturday, marking His Majesty King Abdullah's birthday, which falls on Sunday.

Highlighting exports growth, Khudariexpressed thanks to His Majesty’s efforts towards building “distinguished” economic and trade partnerships with several countries worldwide, emphasising the role of bilateral and free trade agreements, notably joining the World Trade Organization and the FTAs signed with the USA and Canada, the Jordan News Agency, Petra, reported. 

The covid-19 crisis revealed the critical need to foster self-reliance, increase production, expand and diversify existing industrial investments to support foodstuff, medical and basic commodities self-sufficiency to enhancenational security, he said.

Since its establishment in 1988, the JEA has been making "remarkable" efforts to increase exports by organising Jordanian industrial companies participation in various exhibitions that reach markets in Canada, the USA, Africa, Europe, the Arab Gulf states and Australia, he noted, highlighting endeavors to entering South American markets, which have large numbers of Arab residents.

Khudari also went over the need to increase Jordanian exports, raise competitiveness, and create access to non-traditional markets, such as Africa, as well as enhancing presence in the American and European markets.

Head of the Jordan and Amman Chambers of Industry, Fathi Jaghbeer said that King Abdullah is the main supporter for the Jordanian industries, as he issues directives to ease all obstacles that hinder production. 

Jordan’s industry is in its “golden age”, thanks to His Majesty’s support, Jaghbeer said. He highlighted that His Majesty’s visits to several factories are a Royal message for the government that Jordanian industries are at the top of economic priorities.

During His Majesty's reign, the national industry has grown significantly, with exports that increased from $1 billion in 1998 to some $7 billion today, while industrial investments have grown over the last decade to account for 70 per cent of the kingdom's total investments, he said. 

He added that the industrial sector provides jobs for more than 240,000 workers, calling for addressing all challenges facing the sector, notably the high energy prices, and to create access to new markets.

He also highlighted the necessity of implementing Royal directives to ease investors’ measures, mainly the laws governing economic work, notably the general tax laws and investment encouragement.