Jordan

It has been an uneven year for Jordan’s tourism industry, with rising earnings yet declining visitor numbers. Both are reflections of the kingdom’s growing market, but also of the hovering uncertainty in the region and the impact it is having on visitor confidence.

Egypt’s recent decision to halt gas supplies to Jordan and the kingdom’s subsequent decision to lift fuel subsidies has placed the country’s already difficult energy situation under an added level of stress. However, the decisions also highlight the need for Jordan to create its own alternative forms of energy import and production, a process that is already under way.

The information and communication technology (ICT) sector is looking to further expand its reach across the region, with the giant Saudi market firmly in its sights -- though there have been suggestions that the congested domestic industry needs to consolidate to better equip it for overseas conquest.

With the latest economic figures showing that 2012 will ultimately end up being part of a longer slowdown than originally thought, officials in the kingdom are now looking at ways to use foreign investment to ensure the country is primed for a rebound and long-term economic growth.

Officials remain confident of solid economic growth this year, although there are concerns that domestic and regional unrest will leave the kingdom falling short of its objectives for 2012.

The agricultural sector is becoming more modernised and export-oriented, with an emphasis placed on increasing output and quality, as well as nurturing niche areas. Despite a number of challenges, particularly regional unrest severely curtailing exports to and through Syria, Jordan is in a strong position to leverage its competitive advantages as an agricultural producer.