Amman: Iraqi economic representatives from both public and private sectors were briefed by the Jordan Chamber of Commerce (JCC) board members on the measures Jordan has undertaken to join the World Trade Organization (WTO).
According to Jordan News Agency, Firas Sultan, the JCC Second Vice President, highlighted Jordan’s efforts in integrating into the global economy through economic and trade reform policies. He explained that Jordan has successfully balanced economic openness with the interests of both public and private sectors, which were crucial steps before the country accessed the WTO in 2000.
Sultan detailed the trade reforms that Jordan implemented, including economic openness, trade liberalization, and adjustments to the legal environment, which began in the late 1990s. These reforms were necessary to align with WTO criteria. Specific legislative changes were made in areas such as intellectual property, specifications and standards, agriculture, protection of local production, general sales tax, customs, import and export, and non-Jordanian investments.
Further, Sultan noted that Jordan committed to liberalizing its service sectors to allow service suppliers and investors from WTO member states access to the Jordanian market. This move was part of the broader strategy to enhance economic integration with global markets.
Members of the JCC emphasized that WTO membership has opened international markets to Jordanian exports of goods and services. It has also created an attractive business environment and contributed to improvements in economic indicators.