AGP Executive Report

Green Finance Push: Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) CEO Dr. Maher Al Mahrouq urged Qatari investors to back Jordan’s green economy priorities—renewables, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure—framing it as a key pillar of the Economic Modernization Vision 2023-2033 and a chance to deepen Qatar-Jordan cooperation in green finance. Labour Market Policy: The Ministry of Labour suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions for domestic workers, garment/textile, complementary-input manufacturers in development zones/QIZs/free zones, and high-skilled specialised roles. Public Debt Update: The Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) issued JD100m in 2026 treasury bonds (24th issue), with settlement June 7, 2026 and maturity June 7, 2036. ASE Market Watch: Amman Stock Exchange (ASE) closed down 0.64% to 4,076 points with JD18.8m turnover, as investors digested the week’s policy and financing signals.

Green Finance Push: ABJ CEO Dr. Maher Al Mahrouq urged Qatari investors to back Jordan’s green economy priorities—renewables, sustainable transport, circular economy and low-emission infrastructure—saying the banking sector and the Central Bank of Jordan are ready to scale green and sustainable financing. Labour Market Rules: The Ministry of Labour suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with exemptions for domestic work, garment/textiles, and certain high-skilled roles, aiming to prioritise Jordanian employment and prevent oversupply. Public Finance Oversight: OECD and INTOSAI highlighted Jordan’s Audit Bureau experience in a report on strengthening Supreme Audit Institution independence, stressing that legal guarantees must be backed by trust, reputation and balanced relations with authorities. ASE-ADX Link Expands: BHM Capital activated Amman Stock Exchange coverage via Abu Dhabi’s Tabadul platform, giving clients cross-border access to ASE trading. Regional Diplomacy: FM Ayman Safadi called for solidifying Lebanon’s ceasefire and keeping weapons under state control, while also urging stability in Gaza and respect for Jerusalem’s holy sites under Hashemite custodianship. Air Travel Disruption: British Airways extended Middle East flight cancellations, including Amman, Abu Dhabi and others, until Oct. 25 due to ongoing airspace restrictions.

Labour Market Policy: Jordan’s Ministry of Labour has suspended recruitment of non-Jordanians across most sectors from June 1, with limited exemptions (domestic work, garment/textile, complementary inputs in development/QIZ/free zones, and specialized high-skill roles), aiming to prioritize jobs for Jordanians. Capital Markets Integration: BHM Capital (UAE) activated Amman Stock Exchange market coverage via ADX’s Tabadul platform, making it the first UAE financial institution to route clients to ASE trading digitally. Trade & Connectivity: Turkey is discussing reviving the Hejaz Railway and extending it toward Oman, with an initial focus on linking Turkey to Aleppo, then Damascus and Jordan, as part of alternative routes to reduce reliance on chokepoints like the Strait of Hormuz. Food Safety: Local inspectors flagged serious restaurant hygiene breaches, including moldy salsa and unsafe food storage temperatures, leading to closures in at least one case. Diplomacy & Rights: Deputy PM/Foreign Minister Ayman Safadi met the EU human rights envoy to expand Jordan-EU cooperation, including a planned December 7 conference on preserving humanity in war. Travel/Business Climate: Jordan’s custodianship of Jerusalem holy sites drew a fresh UK reaffirmation that the “status quo” must be respected, a signal that regional political risk remains a factor for business confidence.

Water Security: Jordan’s Water Minister Raed Abu Saud warned the National Conveyance Project is needed to avoid a worsening water crisis, saying it would cover only about 40% of needs for roughly a decade and that tanker prices could spike during peak shortages. Aqaba Airport Deal: Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority chief Shadi Majali said an agreement is set to be signed with a foreign operator to manage and develop King Hussein International Airport, aiming to boost air connectivity and tourism, alongside new Royal Jordanian routes via Abu Dhabi and Riyadh. Trade & Investment: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports rose 17.6% in Q1 2026, while vehicle clearance at Zarqa Free Zone fell 65.3% in the first five months; separate coverage also points to Jordan’s broader push for industrial growth and investment incentives. Capital Markets Link: Amman Stock Exchange and Abu Dhabi Exchange launched an electronic trading link through Tabadul to deepen financial integration and liquidity. Forced Labour Tariffs: The US Trade Representative proposed Section 301 tariffs on 60 economies, including Jordan, citing failures to enforce forced-labour import prohibitions, with a July 7 comment hearing. Foreign Policy: Jordan condemned Israel’s approval of 2,126 new settler units in the West Bank as a violation of international law and a setback to the two-state solution.

Pharmaceutical Trade: Jordan’s pharmaceutical exports jumped 17.6% in Q1 2026 to about JD147 million, supported by expanding export markets and stronger international confidence in local products. Free Zones & Vehicles: Zarqa Free Zone vehicle clearance for the domestic market fell 65.3% in the first five months of 2026, with EV clearances down 85.7%, after 2025 import restrictions tightened standards. Smart Mobility: Amman’s investment arm (AVID) launched a smart parking project with private-sector partners, aiming for a unified digital system covering on- and off-street parking and about 5,600 spaces by 2031. Labor Rights: Jordan Labor Watch says around 90,000 ride-hailing and delivery drivers rely on app work but most lack social security, urging legal changes to treat them as employees. Finance & Markets: Amman and Abu Dhabi exchanges moved toward deeper integration via an electronic trading link through Tabadul. Regional Business Outlook: The EBRD said Jordan is taking steps to rationalize energy use and support agriculture and tourism, projecting 2.8% growth in 2027. Sports Investment Angle: The Jordan Economic Forum framed World Cup qualification as a chance to attract investment and boost tourism and related sectors.

Industrial Push in Karak: Jordan’s PM Jafar Hassan inaugurated six Chinese-operated Jinsheng International factories in Qatraneh, aiming to build an integrated industrial complex and create about 700 jobs, with steps underway to designate the area as a development zone. Digital Entrepreneurship Boost: King Hussein Business Park (KHBP) and intaj signed an agreement to support the Virtual KHBP, a smart virtual business platform planned for launch later this year to help companies and entrepreneurs run operations online. Logistics & Investment Incentives: Hassan announced new incentives for the Rawda Industrial Area in Maan, including reduced electricity and land costs and operational support until the area connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline, alongside progress on the Aqaba–Maan land port plan. Trade Policy Shockwaves: The US Trade Representative proposed additional tariffs tied to forced-labor imports, including a 10%–12.5% range for affected economies, as India-US trade talks continue. Water Enforcement: Jordan’s Water Authority reported illegal pipeline violations in Jizah and Ruseifa, including seizure of an illegal drilling rig and legal action against offenders.

Industrial Push: PM Jafar Hassan inaugurated six new Chinese-operated Jinsheng International factories in Karak’s Qatraneh area, part of an integrated industrial complex aimed at attracting investment and creating about 700 jobs, with steps underway to designate the complex as a development zone. Entrepreneurship & Digital Trade: KHBP and intaj signed an agreement to launch the Virtual King Hussein Business Park, a smart virtual platform meant to help startups and firms run operations online and access digital services. Logistics Incentives: Hassan announced new incentives for Maan’s Rawda Industrial Area—lower electricity and land costs and operational support until the area connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline—while pushing to complete the Aqaba-Maan dry port plan by year-end. Tourism Boost: Low-cost airlines will resume flights to Jordan on July 1, expected to lift European tourist arrivals as the sector stabilises after regional disruptions. Humanitarian Pressure: WFP suspended food assistance for 135,000 Syrian refugees in Jordan’s host communities due to a funding shortfall, while continuing reduced support for camp residents. Infrastructure & Water Enforcement: Maintenance work will start on damaged sections of Queen Alia Airport Road (JOD 5.9m Kuwait Fund loan), and WAJ detected illegal water pipeline violations in Jizah and Ruseifa, including unauthorized home supply extensions.

Capital Markets Integration: Jordan’s capital market institutions and the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange (ADX) have activated an electronic trading link via the Tabadul platform, letting investors trade across both markets through licensed brokerage firms—aimed at boosting liquidity, efficiency, and the investor base. Trade Performance: Industry Minister Yarub Qudah said Jordan’s exports rose 1.6% in Q1 2026 to JD 2.129 billion, with gains led by garments, crude potash, and pharmaceutical preparations, and higher shipments to Syria, China, and EU markets. Industrial Projects: King Abdullah inaugurated Arab Potash Company projects (solar evaporation ponds expansion and a power/steam plant) and launched Jordan Bromine Company initiatives in Ghor Al Safi, with total investment around JD 75 million to expand capacity and support fertiliser output. Regional Business Environment: A former Jordanian minister said Syria’s investment push needs clear, predictable laws and “bankable” projects to attract foreign capital as sanctions ease and Gulf interest grows.

Capital Markets: The Amman Stock Exchange and Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange have activated an electronic trading link via the Tabadul platform, aiming to widen the investor base and enable cross-market trading through licensed brokers. Trade & Industry: Industry Minister Yarub Qudah says Jordan’s exports rose 1.6% in Q1 2026 to JD 2.129 billion, led by garments, crude potash and pharmaceutical preparations, with stronger sales to Syria (+45.3%), China (+74.1%) and the EU (+69.9%). Mining & Energy Projects: King Abdullah inaugurated two Arab Potash Company projects in Ghor Al Safi—solar evaporation pond expansion and a power-and-steam plant—at about JD 75 million total, to boost capacity and secure sustainable energy. Household Costs: Economist Munir Diya warns holiday spending pressure is rising as essentials, fuel and utilities get pricier, while loan repayments can take 50–60% of monthly income. Fuel Tax Pressure: A new look at Jordan’s special petroleum tax highlights how fixed fuel levies and high tax burdens on fuel products are weighing on consumers amid inflation. Health Governance: The Reayah cancer programme is framed as a major shift in funding and access, covering key age groups and National Aid Fund beneficiaries from Jan 1, 2026.

Industrial Investment: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan inaugurated six Chinese-operated factories in Karak’s Qatraneh area, part of an integrated industrial push expected to create about 700 jobs and move the site toward “development zone” status. Industrial Incentives: Hassan also ordered al-Rawdah Industrial Zone (within the Ma’an Development Zone) to receive the same electricity, land and employment incentives as Karak’s King Hussein Bin Abdullah II Industrial City until it connects to the Arab Gas Pipeline. Logistics & Trade: Aqaba Port received 44,000 tons of US rice bound for Iraq despite regional shipping disruptions, while Jordanian authorities reported additional Iraq-bound cargoes including vegetable oils and other food and industrial goods. Capital Markets: The Amman Stock Exchange closed Sunday up 0.32% to 4,068 points on JS26.4m trading volume, with gains led by industrial and financial sectors. Business Recognition: Jordan Post issued commemorative stamps marking Jordan’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup, with collectors able to buy first-day covers and limited-edition folders starting June 2. Regional Business Climate: A Chinese-invested sanitary ware factory was inaugurated in southern Jordan with an $80m investment, with plans to expand exports to neighboring markets and potentially Europe.

Aqaba Port Trade: Jordan received 44,000 tons of US rice for Iraq at Aqaba Port, with officials saying unloading and delivery to Iraqi warehouses are being closely monitored despite regional shipping disruptions. Industrial Incentives: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan ordered expanded incentives for the Al-Rawdah Industrial Zone in Ma’an, matching benefits granted to Karak’s King Hussein Bin Abdullah II Industrial Estate until natural gas reaches the zone via the Arab Gas Pipeline. Logistics Push: Hassan also urged faster completion of the Aqaba-Ma’an Dry Port master plan and studies ahead of year-end, outlining a phased 4,000-dunam dry port linked to the Aqaba Railway via a 42 km line. New Factories in Karak: Hassan inaugurated six Jinsheng International factories in Qatrana, targeting 700 jobs and directing steps to convert the complex into a development zone to unlock further investment. ASE Market Watch: The Amman Stock Exchange closed up 0.32% at 4,068 points on JD26.4m trading volume, with industrial and financial sectors leading gains. Tourism Outlook: Low-cost airlines are set to resume flights to Jordan on July 1, with the tourism ministry expecting a “significant” boost in arrivals, especially from Europe. Eid Demand: Restaurant and sweets shop owners report strong Eid al-Adha demand, helped by salary timing and returning expatriates. Jordan Post Sports Commemoration: Jordan Post issued commemorative stamps for the national team’s 2026 World Cup qualification, with sales starting June 2. Foreign Policy: Jordan’s foreign ministry condemned Israeli extremists storming Al-Aqsa Mosque and raising flags inside, calling it a violation of international law and urging international action.

Tourism & Travel: Jordan’s Ministry of Tourism says low-cost airlines will resume flights to the Kingdom on July 1, aiming to lift tourist arrivals—especially from Europe—after earlier suspensions linked to regional tensions. Jobs & Skills: A World Bank-backed programme tied to Jordan’s National Employment Programme helped create 61,000+ job opportunities, with women and youth making up most beneficiaries. Health & Household Costs: Jordan’s Higher Population Council marks World No Tobacco Day with data showing more than half of Jordanians (15+) use tobacco; average spending hits 78 dinars per month, hitting low-income families hardest. Energy Transition: Experts say Jordan can position itself for green hydrogen despite limited conventional resources, leveraging solar/wind growth and Aqaba’s export logistics. Digital Infrastructure: Sparkle plans to extend its GreenMed submarine cable toward Jordan via Aqaba Digital Hub, strengthening Europe–Middle East–Asia connectivity. Regional Trade/Power: A Syria–Jordan–Lebanon energy pact is framed as a practical step to ease shortages and reactivate regional gas pipeline links.

Middle East Travel Disruption: Princeton students say the Iran war has already led to flight cancellations and uncertainty for summer travel plans, including internships previously offered in Jordan and Qatar. Digital Infrastructure & Connectivity: Sparkle signed an MoU to extend its GreenMed submarine cable through Jordan via Aqaba Digital Hub, aiming to link subsea capacity with local fiber and regional interconnection. Business & Trade Links: Jordanian state media highlighted Azerbaijan’s Independence Day, pointing to expanding Jordan-Azerbaijan ties and about $6.5m trade in 2024 across energy, tourism, and investment cooperation. Security & Content Risks: A report claims music streaming platforms are being used to spread extremist material, including songs urging Jordanians to join Hamas’s war. Regional Governance & Al-Aqsa Custodianship: Commentary and reporting renewed focus on Jordan’s role at Al-Aqsa amid claims of Israeli moves affecting the site’s status quo. Jordanian Economy Snapshot: World Bank coverage says 75% of beneficiaries of Jordan’s National Employment Program remain in the labor market.

Digital Infrastructure: Italian operator Sparkle plans to extend its GreenMed submarine cable through Jordan, signing an MoU with Aqaba Digital Hub and iLevant to integrate the subsea link with Jordan’s terrestrial fiber and regional interconnection platforms—positioning Jordan as a key Europe-Asia connectivity gateway. Local Business & Transport: The Stal̕əw̓asəm (Riverview) Bridge will close for weekend construction from 9 p.m. Friday May 29 to 5 a.m. Monday June 1, with business owners in New Westminster warning the disruption could hurt customer traffic. Regional Trade & Investment: Jordan’s state media highlighted Azerbaijan’s Independence Day coverage, citing expanding Jordan-Azerbaijan ties and bilateral trade of about $6.5m in 2024 across agreements on trade, tourism, investment and energy. Water & Sustainability: Jordanian researchers say air-conditioner condensate could be a usable alternative water source, with studies finding water quality suitable for uses like cleaning and gardening. Employment Outcomes: A World Bank report notes that 75% of beneficiaries of Jordan’s National Employment Program remain in the labor market.

Jobs & Skills: The World Bank says Jordan’s National Employment Program has disbursed $64.04m (57% of $112m total) and supported 61,000+ job opportunities, with women making up over half of beneficiaries and a sustainable employment rate of 75.68%. Tech Talent Gap: A Jordanian initiative called Techween highlights why many graduates still struggle to find work, pointing to policy gaps and a skills mismatch that pushes some talent toward the Gulf and abroad. Business & Growth: Jordan’s National Employment Program is also linked to “green jobs” targets, while the program’s results show 56% of participants staying employed six months after support ends. Regional Policy Watch: EU sanctions target seven Israeli settlers and affiliated entities tied to illegal settlement expansion in the occupied West Bank, including travel bans and asset freezes. Water Reuse Angle: Jordan-based research suggests air-conditioner condensate could be a usable alternative water source for cleaning and irrigation, potentially easing urban water stress.

Jobs & Skills: A World Bank report says Jordan’s National Employment Program has disbursed $64.04m (57% of $112m total) by May 2026, supporting over 61,000 job opportunities, with women making up more than half of beneficiaries and a 75.68% sustainable employment rate. Workforce Focus: The same program shows 56% of participants staying employed six months after support ends, while the Ministry of Labour continues adjustments to measure longer-term outcomes. Tech Talent Push: Techween is tackling Jordan’s university-to-work gap by probing why many graduates still struggle to find roles in the tech sector, citing policy mismatches and ongoing brain drain. Education Content Scrutiny: IMPACT-se reports Jordanian school textbooks for 2025-2026 include antisemitic and anti-Israel themes, including portrayals of Jews as “treacherous” and references that justify violence. AI Infrastructure Interest: A roundup highlights MENA startups building AI infrastructure (not just apps), pointing to growing investment in regional language and enterprise systems.