Amman, Sept. 22 (Petra) – Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply, Yarub Qudah, said the Economic Modernization Vision is a cross-government roadmap to advance Jordan’s economy through diverse programs and initiatives, under constant follow-up by His Majesty King Abdullah II and regular evaluations.
Speaking at an event organized by the French Chamber of Commerce and Industry in Jordan and the Franco-Jordanian Business Club, the minister said the vision was prepared and reviewed by the private sector. He added that the second executive program for the next three years will be issued soon, following recent debate.
Despite regional challenges, especially the ongoing Israeli aggression against Gaza and its repercussions, Jordan’s economy has achieved positive results, with growth at 2.7 percent in the first quarter of this year, compared to projections of 2.2 percent. National exports rose by more than 9 percent during the first half of the year, foreign investment increased by 14 percent, and container traffic through Aqaba Port grew by 33 percent, reflecting stronger transit trade and higher exports to Syria, he said.
The minister stressed that the indicators clearly underline economic stability, security, and effective measures, enhancing the investment climate and attracting new ventures.
Qudah pointed out that Jordan and France maintain strong cooperation across various levels, though the trade balance remains heavily tilted in favor of France, with Jordan importing JD267 million worth of French goods last year, while exports to France were much lower.
He called for discussions on ways to increase bilateral trade and develop effective mechanisms to achieve this goal by exploring untapped opportunities, underlining the key role of the private sector in both countries.
Qudah affirmed that both nations have strong reasons to work toward deeper economic cooperation, whether within the framework of the EU-Jordan Association Agreement, or bilaterally. The agreement, he noted, calls for gradually liberalizing trade in goods, services, and capital, while fostering balanced economic and social relations through dialogue and cooperation.
//Petra// AO
