AGP Executive Report

Industrial Exports: Jordan’s industrial exports rose 2.6% in Q1 2026 to JD2.027 billion, driven by stronger shipments to Asia and Europe, with Switzerland leading growth (+306%) and China up 75%, according to the Jordan Chamber of Industry. Trade Facilitation: The Amman Chamber of Commerce reported certificates of origin exports reaching JD624 million in the first five months of 2026 (+24.1%), with 15,464 certificates issued (+10%). Labor Market Policy: Jordan will suspend foreign worker recruitment across most sectors from June 1, 2026 to boost jobs for citizens, while keeping exceptions for garment/textile, development zones, qualified industrial zones/free zones, and domestic workers. Tourism & Culture: The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, reaffirming Jordan as safe and boosting confidence for tourism. Jerash Festival Prep: Culture Minister Mustafa Rawashdeh inspected preparations for the 40th Jerash Festival, urging top logistical and technical readiness ahead of the July launch.

Workforce Policy: Jordan will suspend foreign worker recruitment across most sectors starting June 1, 2026, aiming to boost jobs for Jordanians as unemployment falls to 16% in Q1 2026; the move keeps exceptions for garment/textile, factories in development zones, qualified industrial zones/free zones, and domestic workers. Trade & Exports: Amman Chamber of Commerce certificates of origin rose 24.1% in Jan–May 2026 to JD624 million, with 15,464 certificates issued (+10%), led by the UAE and Syria, signaling steadier export documentation activity. Tourism Confidence: Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities welcomed the UK’s updated travel advisory, reaffirming Jordan as safe and reclassifying most regions as safe—an immediate boost for European visitor confidence. Aviation Connectivity: Air Arabia outlined a phased return of international routes from UAE hubs, with services including Amman and other regional links, plus scheduled resumptions such as Vienna (June 25) and London Gatwick (July 4). Regional Energy/Industry Diplomacy: Morocco condemned drone attacks affecting the Barakah nuclear plant in the UAE during an IAEA board session, underscoring regional concern for nuclear safety and stability.

Foreign Labor Policy: Jordan will suspend recruitment of foreign workers across most sectors starting June 1, 2026, aiming to prioritize local employment as unemployment falls to 16% in Q1 2026; exemptions include domestic workers, the garment and textile sector, and roles tied to development zones, QIZs and free zones, while approvals issued before the decision remain valid. Food Security & Agriculture: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024 (from 57.3% in 2020) as domestic production and surpluses expanded, with strong results in vegetables (cantaloupe 485%, zucchini 173%, tomatoes 167%) and full self-sufficiency in olives (100%); wheat remains low at 2.9%, showing imports still dominate key staples. Green Investment Push: The Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) urged Qatari investors to back Jordan’s green economy priorities—renewable energy, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure—framing it as a pillar of the Economic Modernization Vision 2023–2033 and highlighting the role of green finance in the banking sector. Industrial Growth Signals: Jordan’s government continues to drive industrial expansion, including factory openings and moves to convert industrial complexes and clusters into development zones, reinforcing momentum for investment and job creation.

Green Finance Push: The Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) says Jordan is pitching Qatari investors on green economy projects—renewables, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure—aligned with the Economic Modernization Vision 2023-2033. Food Security Update: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency climbed to 61.4% in 2024 (from 57.3% in 2020), driven by higher local output and surpluses in crops like vegetables and olives, while key staples such as wheat still rely heavily on imports. Labour Market Rules: The Ministry of Labour has suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions including domestic work and the garment/textile industry, plus certain production inputs in development zones, QIZs and free zones. Industrial Growth & Trade Links: Turkey is discussing reviving the Hejaz Railway and extending it toward Oman, with a possible reactivation of the Damascus–Amman section, as part of efforts to build alternative routes amid Gulf tensions.

Green Finance Push: The Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) says Jordan is opening the door for Qatari investors in renewable energy, sustainable transport, circular economy projects and low-emission infrastructure, aligning with the Economic Modernization Vision 2023–2033 and calling on banks to scale green financing. Labour Market Policy: Jordan’s Labour Ministry has suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, while exempting domestic work, garment/textile, and some production inputs in development zones, QIZs and free zones, plus high-skilled roles. Food Security Update: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency rose to 61.4% in 2024 (from 57.3% in 2020), driven by surpluses in vegetables and key crops like tomatoes, zucchini and cantaloupe, while wheat and other strategic items still rely heavily on imports. Industrial Growth & Trade Links: Turkey is discussing reviving the Hejaz Railway and extending it toward Oman as an alternative connectivity route, including a possible Damascus–Amman reactivation, while Jordan continues positioning industrial zones and logistics plans to attract investment. Venture Capital Spotlight: Anara Impact Capital, backed by KfW and Dara Holdings with Jordan’s ISSF among anchors, has reached a first close of $48m for seed-to-Series A impact startups across learning, wellbeing, financial access and climate resilience.

Labour Market Policy: Jordan’s Ministry of Labour has suspended the recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, while keeping exceptions for domestic workers, garment/textile and complementary input manufacturers in development zones, QIZs and free zones, plus specialized high-skilled roles. Food Security Update: Jordan’s food self-sufficiency climbed to 61.4% in 2024 (from 57.3% in 2020), driven by higher local yields and surpluses in vegetables and some fruits and livestock, though wheat, fish/seafood and other key staples still rely heavily on imports. Industrial Growth & Investment: The government continues pushing industrial expansion, including new factory openings and incentives tied to industrial zones and development areas, aiming to accelerate investment and sustainable growth. Regional Trade & Logistics: Turkey is discussing reviving the Hejaz Railway and extending it toward Oman, using the Damascus–Amman link as an early step, alongside work on a major Development Road corridor to diversify routes around the Strait of Hormuz. Trade Compliance Risk: The U.S. is moving forward with forced-labour related trade actions that could affect Jordan and other economies, raising the stakes for exporters and supply-chain compliance.

Forced-Labour Tariffs: The US Trade Representative has proposed Section 301 tariffs of 10%–12.5% on imports from 60 economies, including Jordan, after finding failures to enforce forced-labour import bans—setting up a fresh trade pressure point for exporters. Jordanian Exports Watch: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in Q1 2026 to JD147m, supported by market expansion and stronger regulatory recognition. Free Zone Traffic: Vehicle clearance at Zarqa Free Zone fell 65.3% in the first five months of 2026, with EV clearances down 85.7%, linked to tighter import standards. Industrial Push: The government continues rolling out industrial incentives and factory openings, including new plants in Karak and moves to expand industrial clusters. World Cup Economy & Work: With Jordan set for its first World Cup appearance, PM-directed public institutions will start later on match days, while JEF frames football as a growth lever for investment and tourism. Tourism Access: Jordan’s tourism authorities say they’re working to lift travel restrictions and advisories in multiple countries to boost inbound arrivals. Regional Trade Links: Easing trade flows remains a theme as Jordan backs corridor connectivity, including the Aqaba–Tartous route.

Pharma Exports Surge: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports jumped 17.6% in Q1 2026 to JD147m, driven by new market access and stronger international confidence, with the sector aiming for about JD2.1bn by 2033. Free Zone Trade Signals: Vehicle clearance at Zarqa Free Zone for the domestic market fell 65.3% in the first five months of 2026, with EV clearances down 85.7% after tighter import standards. Industrial Push in Karak: Jordan opened six new factories in Karak (Qatrana/Al-Qatrana area), reinforcing efforts to build industrial clusters and accelerate investment. Exports Momentum: Jordan’s overall exports rose to JD2.129bn in Q1 2026, alongside reports of stronger export categories and re-export activity shifts. Energy & Regional Trade: The EBRD said Jordan is rationalizing energy use and supporting agriculture and tourism amid regional war fallout, while praising the Aqaba–Tartous corridor to facilitate trade. Capital Flows Watch: Foreign investors held 46.3% of Amman Stock Exchange market value by end-May, with net selling in May but continued presence overall. Jordan-Japan Ties: A renewed focus on Jordanian-Japanese partnership highlights development cooperation in infrastructure, water, energy, and human development. World Cup as Investment Lever: JEF framed Jordan’s 2026 World Cup qualification as a chance to attract sports investment and spur tourism and growth across sectors.

Industrial Push in Jordan: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated six Chinese-owned Jinsheng International factories in Karak’s Qatraneh area, aiming to build an integrated industrial complex and create about 700 jobs, while directing steps to designate the site as a development zone. Industrial Incentives & Logistics: Hassan also announced new incentives for the Rawda Industrial Area (reduced electricity and land costs, plus support until it connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline) and stressed fast-track work on the Aqaba-Maan land port project, linked to the Aqaba Railway. Engineering Sector Dialogue: Hassan met the Jordan Engineers Association to discuss sector priorities and how to use engineering expertise in major water, energy, transport and infrastructure projects. Prices Watch: Jordan’s wholesale price index rose 1.13% in Q1 2026 year-on-year, with textiles and fuel/metals/construction materials among the biggest movers. Food Security Shock: The World Food Programme suspended food assistance for 135,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan’s host communities due to a funding shortfall, while continuing reduced support in camps. Regional Trade & Shipping: A new “Red Sea Express” service links Egypt’s Ain Sokhna, Jordan’s Aqaba, and Saudi ports to cut transit times and delays for faster container movement. Gulf Disruption Risk: Iran launched missile and drone attacks on Bahrain and Kuwait and targeted civilian shipping routes; US and local air defences reported interceptions, raising uncertainty for regional logistics.

Industrial Expansion in Karak: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated six new Chinese-owned Jinsheng International factories in Qatraneh, part of an integrated industrial complex aimed at attracting more investment and creating about 700 jobs, with steps underway to designate the site as a development zone. Incentives for Southern Industry: Hassan also announced new incentives for the Rawda Industrial Area, matching those in King Hussein bin Abdullah II Industrial City, including reduced electricity and land costs and operational support until the area connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline. Trade and Exports: Industry Minister Yarub Qudah said Jordan’s exports rose 1.6% in Q1 2026 to JD 2.129 billion, led by garments, crude potash and pharmaceutical preparations, with gains to Syria, China and the EU. Wholesale Prices: The Department of Statistics reported the general wholesale price index rose 1.13% year-on-year in Q1 2026, with textiles and fuel/metals/construction materials among the biggest movers. Food Security Pressure: WFP suspended food assistance for 135,000 Syrian refugees in host communities in Jordan due to a funding shortfall, while maintaining reduced support in camps. Logistics Link for Trade: The “Red Sea Express” service connects Egypt’s Ain Sokhna, Jordan’s Aqaba, and Saudi ports, aiming to cut port delays and speed regional shipping.

Jordan Trade Watch: Industry Minister Yarub Qudah says Jordan’s exports rose 1.6% in Q1 2026 to JD 2.129 billion, led by garments, raw potash and pharmaceuticals, with gains to Syria (+45.3%), China (+74.1%) and the EU (+69.9%). Industrial Expansion: King Abdullah inaugurated Arab Potash’s solar evaporation ponds expansion and a new power/steam plant in Ghor Al Safi, boosting capacity and aiming to lift potash output by 35,000 tonnes; the projects total about JD75 million. New Factory Push: PM Jafar Hassan opened six Jinsheng International Group factories in Al-Qatrana (Karak), part of an integrated industrial cluster expected to create 700 jobs and expand production of porcelain, appliances, stainless steel, lighting and sanitary ware. Re-exports & Logistics: Zarqa Governorate’s re-export value hit about JD31.8 million in May, with vehicles and accessories leading, reinforcing Zarqa’s role as a commercial and logistical hub. Digital Inclusion: Orange Jordan backed the “Digital First” project phase via the Codecast podcast, supporting youth with disabilities and digital inclusion efforts. Regional Disruption: Beirut flight cancellations continued amid renewed Israeli preparations to resume strikes, affecting routes including Amman and Kuwait.

Exports & Industry Pulse: Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yarub Qudah said Q1 2026 exports rose 1.6% to JD 2.129 billion, led by garments, crude potash and pharmaceutical preparations, with gains to Syria (+45.3%), China (+74.1%) and the EU (+69.9%). Mining & Fertiliser Investment: King Abdullah inaugurated Arab Potash Company projects in Ghor Al Safi, including solar evaporation pond expansion and a power/steam plant, aiming to boost capacity and secure sustainable energy (about JD75m total). Industrial Expansion: A Chinese-invested sanitary ware factory was inaugurated in southern Jordan with $80m investment, expected to strengthen manufacturing value-add and support exports. New Factories & Incentives: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated six factories in Karak and directed expanded incentives for the al-Rawdah Industrial Zone, while officials pushed progress on the Aqaba–Ma’an dry port plan. Trade & Logistics: Aqaba Port received 44,000 tons of US rice for Iraq despite regional shipping disruptions. Water Security Watch: A global study warns nearly one-third of groundwater wells show declining levels, with Middle East depletion affecting springs and wetlands. Market Snapshot: The Amman Stock Exchange closed up at 4,076 points with JD20.4m volume.

Industrial Investment Push: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated six Chinese-operated Jinsheng factories in Qatrana, Karak, targeting an integrated industrial complex and about 700 jobs, and ordered steps to convert the site into a development zone to unlock more incentives. Industrial Zones Incentives: Hassan also directed that Al-Rawdah Industrial Zone in Ma’an receive the same electricity, land and employment support privileges as the King Hussein bin Abdullah II Industrial City in Karak until it’s connected to the Arab Gas Pipeline. Logistics & Trade: Jordan’s Aqaba Port received 44,000 tons of US rice for Iraq despite regional shipping disruptions, while more food and industrial cargo continues to dock or await unloading. Port/Market Signals: The Amman Stock Exchange closed up, with trading volume reaching JD26.4m and gains led by industrial and financial sectors. Automotive Retail Expansion: Akamas Automotive opened a second EXEED/EXLANTIX showroom on Mecca Street in Amman, adding a flagship sales and service hub for Jordan’s growing demand. Energy Outlook: Experts say Jordan can capitalize on green hydrogen thanks to solar and wind growth and Aqaba’s export logistics.

Industrial Incentives: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan ordered expanded incentives for the al-Rawdah Industrial Zone in the Ma’an Development Zone, matching benefits from the King Hussein bin Abdullah II Industrial City in Karak (preferential electricity tariffs, land incentives, and employment support) until gas supply via the Arab Gas Pipeline. Logistics & Trade: Hassan also pushed to speed up the Aqaba–Ma’an Dry Port master plan and technical/economic studies before year-end, outlining a 4,000-dunam, expandable dry port integrated with the Ma’an zone and linked to the Aqaba Railway via a 42-km branch. New Factory Openings: Hassan inaugurated six Jinsheng International factories in Qatrana, Karak, targeting an integrated industrial complex expected to create 700 jobs and move toward development-zone status to attract further investment. Capital Markets: The Amman Stock Exchange closed Sunday with ASE trading volume of JD26.4m and the general index up 0.32%, led by industrial and financial sectors. Automotive Retail: Akamas Automotive opened its second EXEED/EXLANTIX showroom on Mecca Street in Amman, adding a flagship sales and service hub for Jordan’s growing demand. Employment Support: A World Bank-backed programme reported over 61,000 job opportunities created nationwide, with women and youth forming the majority of beneficiaries.

Jobs & Skills: A World Bank-backed Jordan Support to Private Sector Employment and Skills programme helped create 61,000+ job opportunities, with women and youth making up most beneficiaries, using wage subsidies, on-the-job training and skills support. Green Hydrogen Push: Experts say Jordan can realistically scale green hydrogen, citing fast-growing solar and wind capacity plus Aqaba’s logistics role for export projects. Regional Energy Cooperation: A new Syria–Jordan–Lebanon energy deal aims to use Jordanian LNG import infrastructure and reactivate the Arab Gas Pipeline, easing shortages and boosting regional power links. Trade & Investment Signals: Jordan’s foreign investment momentum continues, with reports highlighting $2bn+ attracted in 2025 and ongoing development financing. Infrastructure & Logistics: Aqaba ports are reported to have handled a 35% surge in cargo in the first five months of 2026, underlining Jordan’s role in regional trade flows. Military Humanitarian Role: Jordan has deployed 142,000+ personnel in UN peacekeeping since 1989, including major medical and civilian protection work.

Jordanian Travel & Education Disruption: Princeton students say the Iran war has already shaken summer travel plans, with flights to and from Israel suspended and Jordan internship programs reportedly canceled, including placements in Amman and other Jordanian institutions. Extremist Content on Music Platforms: A report alleges Hamas sympathizers are using streaming services to spread hate and calls for violence, including a track urging Jordanians to join the fight, raising fresh concerns for online moderation. Energy & Industry Deal Watch: Antares signed what it calls the world’s first multi-year commercial HALEU supply deal with Urenco, a milestone for microreactor fuel—an energy supply story with long-term implications for regional industrial competitiveness. Water Reuse in Jordan: Researchers highlight AC condensate as a usable alternative water source, pointing to practical reuse for cleaning and irrigation—relevant for Jordan’s water-stress agenda. Bilateral & Investment Signals: Coverage notes Jordan’s growing ties with Azerbaijan, including trade, tourism, investment and energy cooperation, alongside broader foreign investment momentum for Jordan.