Jordan

Through its industrial estates, free zones and development zones, Jordan has continued to attract local and foreign investment. These make a vital contribution to national exports and to the economy in general, despite some concern that Jordanians have not benefitted from the jobs created. At the same time, the government is working to unify...

Addressing Jordan’s energy imbalance had already been at the top of the government’s agenda before its Egyptian natural gas imports began to be disrupted in early 2011. But in view of the ongoing attacks on the Egyptian gas pipeline, policymakers now see the country’s energy balance as an issue of national security. As such, the government is keener...

Up to this point, Jordan’s transport sector has been dominated by road infrastructure, with the aviation network and the seaport at Aqaba also playing important roles. Though less well developed, the country’s rail network is now the focus of government-led modernisation and expansion plans.

With solid fundamental growth, companies in Jordan’s insurance sector are currently focusing on improving technical profits and boosting penetration rates. As the 28 insurance providers compete to increase market share, customers are also benefitting from low premiums and high quality provision of services.

In the face of rising energy costs and limited access to financing for smaller businesses, many Jordanian manufacturers can nonetheless feel optimistic in 2012. Despite the political unrest which overtook much of the Middle East in 2011, Jordanian exports proved surprisingly resilient, both within the region and further afield, and are being...

At a time when parts of Jordan’s transport sector are struggling because of regional turmoil and the wider economic downturn, industry analysts say it is crucial to plan ahead and modernise the country’s legislative framework in preparation for better times. A number of such changes are under way, with the government working to reform outdated laws...