Amman: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan stated that His Majesty King Abdullah II's early directives have played a crucial role in establishing a robust strategic reserve and advancing the agricultural sector.
According to Jordan News Agency, Hassan led a meeting of the Higher Council for Food Security, where he called for coordinated efforts between the government and private sector. He emphasized the need for a proactive approach to strengthen the strategic reserves of staple goods and materials, ensure market stability, and address potential challenges amid current regional conditions.
The Prime Minister instructed relevant ministries and authorities to diligently monitor markets and prices, combat monopolistic practices, and enforce laws against violators. He underscored the council's vital role in formulating and overseeing national food security policies and strategies, ensuring the availability of essential food commodities, and tackling any emerging challenges.
The meeting featured presentations on procedures, plans, and programs from various stakeholders. Council members affirmed that the Kingdom's reserves of basic food items, supplies, and raw materials are secure and sufficient for several months.
Minister of Agriculture Saeb Khraisat outlined measures taken by his ministry to stabilize local markets and ensure the availability of farm products. These measures include regulating imports and exports, exploring new markets and outlets, and closely monitoring stock levels of goods and production inputs.
Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply Ya'rub Qudah highlighted the continuous monitoring of supply chains, trade, and transport in coordination with government agencies and the commercial and industrial sectors. He mentioned that proactive steps have been undertaken to enhance supply chain resilience, diversify import sources, and daily monitor stock levels to guarantee local market stability and the availability of goods.
Qudah assured that the strategic reserves of wheat and barley are secure and sufficient for the local market, alongside other basic food commodities. He also noted the availability of numerous alternatives to address any regional trade developments.
Jordan Chamber of Industry President Fathi Jagbeer emphasized the commitment of the Jordanian industry to maintaining current prices. He reported that factories are operating at full capacity and that local food industries meet approximately 65% of local market needs. The Chamber, in collaboration with government agencies, is monitoring stock levels of food commodities and production inputs at factories.
The Higher Council for Food Security is tasked with developing food security policies, plans, and strategies in partnership with various stakeholders, providing accurate data and information to bolster national food security efforts. The council, chaired by the Prime Minister, includes several key ministers, military and administrative leaders, and representatives from commerce and industry sectors.