Amman: Jordan looks to Uzbekistan in the heart of Central Asia as a new economic partner to expand into new markets and showcase the Kingdom’s diverse investment opportunities, economists say.
According to Jordan News Agency, His Majesty King Abdullah II’s state visit to Uzbekistan and talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev mark a new chapter in economic and trade relations, as bilateral agreements and cooperation protocols are expected to be signed during the trip.
In interviews with Petra, economists highlighted prospects in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, textiles, home appliances, IT, agriculture, tourism, education, and mining. They emphasized the close relationship between the countries’ leaderships and the importance of broad cooperation and diversified trade partnerships.
Jordan Exporters Association President, Senator Ahmad Khudari, stated that the royal visit is a key opportunity to expand Jordan’s export base into a promising market with significant economic potential. Jordanian exporters could benefit from access to the Uzbek market, particularly in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, fertilizers, and agricultural products.
Jordan Businessmen Association President Hamdi Tabbaa stressed the need to leverage mutual interests and opportunities, noting that both countries’ strategic locations and stable investment climates provide a solid foundation for joint projects. He pointed to a memorandum of understanding between the association and Uzbekistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry as a tool to further deepen cooperation.
Amman Chamber of Commerce Vice President Nabil Khatib commented that the royal visit will give momentum to economic exchanges by opening new channels for private sector cooperation. Although bilateral trade is below ambitions, Khatib noted that Uzbekistan is a market rich in opportunities, especially in agriculture, light industries, and natural resources. He called for boosting trade, easing visa procedures, and enhancing transport and tourism between the two countries.
Jordanian exports to Uzbekistan include chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and plastics, while imports mainly consist of copper and food products, according to official data. Jordan also has export potential in phosphate acid, natural phosphates, and chalk products. The two countries recorded notable growth in trade, reaching about $6 million in 2023, compared with $2.9 million in 2022, which indicates a promising start.