Zarqa:The national engineering industries sector has set a goal to boost its total exports to JD 2.5 billion by 2033 and create 15,000 direct jobs by 2031. This plan is part of a new strategy intended to enhance industrial competitiveness, expand domestic production, and attract investment.
According to Jordan News Agency, The Engineering Industries Sector Strategy for 2026-2029 aims to increase exports from core engineering industries to JD 1.043 billion by 2029. It also focuses on boosting local value addition and drawing industrial investment. The strategy was developed by the Ministry of Industry, Trade and Supply with input from the Economic Reform Program, the Jordan Chamber of Industry, and other stakeholders.
The sector, which includes around 4,800 establishments and employs approximately 35,200 people, significantly contributes to industrial growth. In 2024, core engineering industries exported JD 639.2 million, while the total sector exports reached JD 1.3648 billion.
A key priority is to enhance domestic manufacturing value by reinforcing local content and replacing imports with locally made products. The strategy plans to double the gross fixed capital formation in the metal products and electrical equipment subsectors by 2029, with a goal for women to hold at least 20 percent of new jobs.
Challenges identified include high energy costs, limited export financing, and supply chain vulnerabilities. However, the strategy also recognizes opportunities from shifts in global supply chains, free trade agreements, and regional reconstruction efforts, notably in Syria.
The strategy envisions positioning Jordan as a trusted regional partner in high-value engineering products. It stresses the importance of product quality, precision, and technical reliability and aims to enhance the ability of manufacturers to compete in domestic, regional, and international markets.
Implementation revolves around strengthening local value chains, building workforce capabilities, and diversifying export markets. It includes initiatives like a local content program, the Zarqa Engineering Innovation Centre, and compliance with the European Union's Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism.
The strategy highlights the importance of metal products, electrical equipment, and metal furniture due to their export potential and domestic impact. It also addresses other subsectors, including electronics, machinery, and jewelry.
Coordination among government and industrial agencies is vital to achieve these targets, with a focus on monitoring performance indicators and increasing the international presence of Jordanian engineering products. This strategy is part of broader efforts to enhance industrial productivity as part of the Economic Modernisation Vision.