Amman: Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Ya'rub Qudah emphasized the critical role of integration and partnership between the government and political parties in bolstering Jordan's comprehensive modernization efforts and driving sustainable economic growth.
According to Jordan News Agency, during a meeting with Secretary-General of the Change Party Fawzan Abadi and party representatives, Qudah described the Economic Modernization Vision as a long-term national project. This vision is structured around defined priorities and implementation programs with a clear timeline, aiming to enhance national exports, boost the competitiveness of the industrial, commercial, and service sectors, increase their contribution to the Gross Domestic Product (GDP), create employment opportunities, and improve service quality.
Qudah pointed out that Jordanian exports experienced a 10 percent increase in 2025 compared to the previous year, reaching approximately JD9.5 billion. This growth was attributed to the continued expansion of national industrial output. He further noted that the industrial sector contributes around 24 percent to the Kingdom's GDP and provides nearly 260,000 jobs, establishing it as a key pillar of economic growth and employment generation.
The minister elaborated on the ministry's comprehensive strategy to support the industrial sector. This involves opening new export markets, concluding preferential trade agreements, and maximizing the benefits of Jordan's free trade agreements, enabling Jordanian products to access more than 150 countries worldwide.
Qudah stated that the Industry Support Fund has assisted about 700 industrial companies, resulting in the creation of more than 4,000 jobs, a 40 percent increase in exports, and a 30 percent rise in sales. He also underscored the ministry's focus on women's economic empowerment and support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
He outlined ongoing strategic projects, such as the National Water Carrier Project, railway initiatives, connecting industrial cities to the natural gas network, and upgrading transportation infrastructure. These endeavors are anticipated to strengthen the investment environment. Additionally, the government is working on settling outstanding dues owed to factories and suppliers to improve liquidity and sustain production activity.
Qudah remarked that Jordan maintains robust monetary indicators and foreign currency reserves at the Central Bank of Jordan, exceeding international coverage standards for imports, thereby supporting monetary stability and investor confidence. The ministry is prioritizing high-value industries, including mining, pharmaceuticals, and apparel manufacturing.
On the topic of food security, Qudah asserted that Jordan serves as a regional model for market stability, with strategic wheat and barley reserves remaining secure and sufficient for extended periods. He reviewed government measures aimed at mitigating the impact of global price increases and maintaining supply chain continuity.
Secretary-General Abadi highlighted the importance of collaboration between program-based political parties and government institutions in supporting political and economic modernization efforts. He lauded the ministry's role in supporting productive sectors and enhancing economic competitiveness, reaffirming the party's support for national programs aimed at stimulating investment and creating youth employment opportunities.