Amman: After a 15-year hiatus, Jordanian trucks on Friday crossed the Bab al-Hawa-Cilveg¶z border crossing between Syria and Turkey, marking a pivotal step in re-establishing a crucial conduit for Jordanian exports to Turkish and European markets.
According to Jordan News Agency, the opening of this vital route was the result of concerted efforts and close coordination between the Jordanian and Turkish Ministries of Transport, successfully removing all customs and procedural obstacles at the crossing. On Friday afternoon, three Jordanian trucks entered Turkey "smoothly and in accordance with established procedures," demonstrating an advanced level of technical and administrative cooperation between the two sides to facilitate land freight movement on this essential route.
National economy stakeholders view the resumption of Jordanian exports through the Bab al-Hawa crossing as reflecting a significant interest at the official level in strengthening trade between Jordan, Turkey, and European nations. This is particularly important given the strategic significance of the crossing as a key land link between Jordan and Europe. Reopening the crossing is expected to positively impact the trade deficit between Jordan and European countries by increasing the volume of Jordanian exports and enhancing their competitiveness in European markets, especially agricultural and commercial goods.
The crossing will also enhance Jordan's strategic position in terms of land connectivity between Turkey, European countries, and regional nations via Jordanian territory. "Reopening Bab al-Hawa crossing is evident in many aspects, notably geographical connectivity between Turkey and the Middle East, which will contribute to reducing transport and delivery costs," stated Nabil al-Khatib, Vice President of the Amman Chamber of Commerce and Head of the Jordanian Logistics Association.
The crossing is anticipated to increase transit and logistics opportunities, revitalize trade with European markets, and support regional economic growth. Al-Khatib emphasized that this step would bolster economic stability by strengthening Jordanian-Syrian economic relations and aiding Syria's integration into the regional economic system.
Deifallah Abu Aqoula, President of the Jordanian Association of Owners of Clearance and Cargo Transport Companies, described the Bab al-Hawa crossing as "a vital artery and a strategic corridor" for transit between Jordan and Turkish and European markets, which will revitalize the land freight sector. He noted that the crossing will connect the Kingdom to international land supply chains and strengthen its logistical position, thereby boosting Jordanian exports and opening up broader horizons, particularly for agricultural products, while reducing shipping costs and transit time.
Hani Abu Hassan, head of the Irbid Chamber of Industry, also highlighted that the resumption of land transport through Bab al-Hawa crossing is "a strategic step that will enhance the competitiveness of Jordanian exports."