RESTRICTEDWORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/ACC/JOR/22
30 September 1999
(99-4045)
Working Party on the
Accession of JordanOriginal:  English
ACCESSION OF JORDAN
Additional Questions and Replies
The Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has submitted the following additional
replies to questions raised by Members, with the request that they be circulated to members of theWorking Party.
_______________WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 2
II. ECONOMY, ECONOMIC POLICIES AND FOREIGN TRADE
2. Economic Policies
(a) Main directions of ongoing economic policies
Pricing System
Question 1.  
We seek completion of paragraph 29 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6, indicating how national
treatment has been applied to price controls on chilled meat listed in table 1(b).
Answer:
Jordan made a decision to eliminate price controls on imported chilled meat.   Legal measures
to eliminate this practice will be adopted in October 1999.
Question 2.  
We seek similar information in paragraph 29 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6 concerning the price
controls on imported barley, bagged and loose, as noted in table 1(b).
Answer:
Jordan confirms that price cap applies equally on imported and domestically-produced barley
(bagged and loose) and does not violate national treatment (Article III of the GATT 1994).
Question 3.  
Please confirm in para 29 that the profitability controls applied to imports of human and
veterinary medicaments noted in table 1(b) are applied equally in scope and incidence on
domestic goods referenced in Table 1(a), or unif y the tables to ensure that this is indicated .
Answer:
For veterinary medicaments, profitability control applies equally on imports and
domestically-produced medicaments.
As for human medicaments, price control applies on domestically-produced medicaments
whereas profitability control applies on imported ones.
Question 4.  
We suggest the last sentence of paragraph 29 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6 be made a separate
paragraph and redrafted as follows:
29. The representative of Jordan confirmed that prices for goods and services in
every sector of Jordan were determined  freely by market forces with the
exception of those listed in Table1 (a and b)
29bis. The representative of Jordan confirme d that Jordan would apply, from the date
of accession, the price and profitability controls described in paragraphs 26-29WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 3
and Table 1(a and b) and any applied in the future, in a WTO-consistent
fashion, and would take account of the interests of exporting WTO Members as
provided for in Article III.9 of the GATT 1994.  Jordan would publish any list of
goods and services subject to State price controls in the Official Journal,
including any changes regarding existing price controls.  The Working Party
took note of these commitments.
Answer:
Jordan agrees to this suggestion.
(d) Foreign and Domestic Investment Policies
Question 5.  
A high level of transparency should be main tained by Jordan on its investment regime in
relation to its obligations under Article X of the GATT 1994. For example, the introduction of
new laws and regulations, and the amendment thereto, should be duly publicised. Also, areasonable period of time between the introd uction and the enactment of the laws and
regulations on the investment regime should be granted.
Answer:
The Jordanian Constitution provides that laws should be published in the Official Gazette.
The Constitutional provision No. 93 (ii) provides:
A law shall come into force after its promulgation by the King and the lapse of thirty days
from the date of its publication in the Official Ga zette unless it is specifically provided in the
law that it shall come into force on any other date.
Therefore, every law states in its first article that it shall come into force after thirty days or
more of the date of publication.
Question 6.  
We would like to expect that an official branch or agency as an inquiry point can be established
to provide the relevant information on invest ment. Furthermore, the Jordanian authorities
should set down conditions, in a manner as explicit as possible, whether or not foreign
investment is permitted.
Answer:
The Investment Promotion Corporation, estab lished through the Investment Promotion Law
No. 16 of 1995, is the inquiry point in Jordan regarding relevant information on investment.
Moreover, the Ministry of Industry and Trade will  be the inquiry point under GATS, and since the
Investment Law is a horizontal law under the GATS,  both of these entities would serve the purpose.
Foreign investment is permitted in Jordan.  A foreign investor can own 100 per cent of the
equity in a Jordanian entity except in the following three sectors:  Mining;  Construction Contracting;
Commerce and Commercial Services.
The Investment Promotion Corporation is prepar ing a new regulation to define what is meant
by Commerce and Commercial Services.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 4
(e) Competition Policies
Question 7.  
The current situation and future action plan to  introduce the relevant laws and regulations on
competition should be informed to the Working Party. Also, the description in this paragraph
should be up-dated, if necessary.
Answer:
The Draft Law on the Prevention of Monopolistic Practices and Encouragement of
Competition has been submitted to the Parliament.
III. FRAMEWORK FOR MAKI NG AND ENFORCING POLICIES AFFECTING
FOREIGN TRADE IN GOODS AND TRADE IN SERVICES
Question 8.  
We appreciate the information noted in paragraph 39 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6, concerning
the prerogatives of the central authorities in the national economy and foreign trade.
We seek the following commitment for inclusion in WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6:
39bis. The representative of Jordan stated th at if Jordanian laws or other acts should
be found to contradict international treaties or agreements, the provisions of the
international treaty or agreement, such as the WTO, would apply.  The
representative of Jordan confirmed that sub-central entities had no autonomous
authority over issues of subsidies, taxa tion, trade policy or any other measures
covered by WTO provisions.  He confirmed that the provisions of the WTOAgreement, including Jordan's Protocol, shall be applied uniformly throughout
its customs territory and other territories under Jordan's control, including in
regions engaging in border trade or fronti er traffic, special economic zones, and
other areas where special regimes for tariffs, taxes and regulations are
established.  He added that when apprized of a situation where WTO provisionswere not being applied or were applied in a non-uniform manner, central
authorities would act to enforce WTO provisions without requiring affected
parties to petition through the courts.  The Working Party took note of these
commitments.
Answer:
Jordan commits to include the suggested paragraph 39bis in WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 5
IV. POLICIES AFFECTING TRADE IN GOODS
1. Import Regulation
(a) Registration requirements for Engaging in Importing
Jordan has confirmed in the response to question 11 in WT/ACC/JOR/18 that foreign
ownership of firms in the area of trade and tr ade services may not exceed 50 percent.  Earlier,
Jordan had noted that this was provided for by Investment Regulation No. 39 for 1997, issued inaccordance with Article 24 of the Investment Promotion Law No. 16 of 1996.
The response to questions 12 states that a profession license to import will be automatically
conferred on foreign or domestic companies, and that this license allows an importer to get an
import card, without which importers must pay a 5 percent penalty.
Jordan has also stated in the response to question 13 that foreign owned businesses registered in
Jordan are licensed to import in exactly the same way as domestically owned enterprises, but
that foreign companies not registe red in Jordan do not have the right to import for commercial
purposes.
These responses do not state clearly the situatio n for firms that wish to import in Jordan, or
what their ability is (a) to get a importers licen se and hence an import card; or (b) to conduct
trade.  Jordan needs to review its responses and is sue a clear description of what is and what is
not possible for companies, foreign and domestically owned, in trade.
Question 9.  
Does this 50 per cent foreign ownership rule, in  effect, preclude foreign companies that engage
in importation or exportation from being registered in Jordan and from importing or
exporting? Does it preclude foreign companies from participating in trading services?  If so,
how then can partially or fully foreign owned businesses be a licensed to import in exactly thesame way as domestically owned enterprises, as stated in the response to question 13?  How is
membership in the Chamber of Commerce, access to a professional license to import, and access
to an import card related to the equity ownership of the firm?
Answer:
Please refer to the Report on the Right to Trade (WT/ACC/JOR/25).
Question 10.  
Please define precisely what the term trade mean s and trading services for the purposes of these
regulations.  Does it include the basic right to import and to export?  Does it refer only to the
right to distribute imports, e.g., through wholesaling and retailing?  Please address each element
separately.
Answer:
Please refer to the Report on the Right to Trade (WT/ACC/JOR/25).WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 6
Question 11.  
Do both foreign and domestic individuals, i.e., persons not registered as firms or corporate
entities have the right to import for their own us e?  For resale to other individuals or to firms?
Answer:
Please refer to the Report on the Right to Trade (WT/ACC/JOR/25).
Question 12.  
When a firm registers, must it include import ing and exporting in its registration request in
order to trade?  If yes, how difficult is it for a firm already registered to alter its registration to
include the right to trade?
Answer:
Please refer to the Report on the Right to Trade (WT/ACC/JOR/25).
Question 13.  
We seek clarification from Jordan as to the trad ing rights of (a) fully domestically-owned firms;
(b) firms with less than 50 percent foreign equi ty; (c) firms with more than 50 percent foreign
equity; and (d) fully foreign owned firms.  For each category:
- Which can register as Jordanian firms with the right to import for their own
use, e.g., in manufacturing?
- Which can register to import for further distribution?
- Which can export?
Answer:
Please refer to the Report on the Right to Trade (WT/ACC/JOR/25).
Question 14.  
We seek Jordan’s assistance in clarifying the info rmation provided to date on the right of firms
and individuals to trade, so that we may better understand how Jordan’s requirements relate to
the requirement in GATT Article III:4 that imports from WTO members shall receive
treatment no less favorable than th at accorded to like products of national origin in respect of
all laws, regulations and requirements affecting th eir internal sale, offering for sale, purchase,
transportation, distribution or use
We seek confirmation from Jordan that its req uirements on the right of foreign and domestic
individuals and firms to import and export goods within Jordan’s customs territory are
consistent with WTO Agreements, in particular Articles III, XI, and VIII of the GATT;  that
individuals and firms are not restricted in their ability to import or export goods based on the
scope of business of their registration and that th ey can easily change their registration to allow
for trade; that the criteria for registration are published in the official journal and generally
applicable to all.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 7
Answer:
Please refer to the Report on the Right to Trade (WT/ACC/JOR/25).
(b) Characteristics of National Tariffs
Question 15.  
As many items as possible should be bound at its current applied rate.  The differences between
the offer rates and the current applied rates shou ld be reduced by Jordan as far as possible.
Answer:
The issue is being addressed in bilateral negotiations.
Question 16.  
The response to question 18 of WT/ACC/JOR/18 states that the new Customs Law is currently
being reviewed to determine whether or not it fully complies with the WTO requirements, and
that a report will be provided during this Work ing Party meeting regarding that matter.   We
would appreciate having this report.
If Jordan does not intend to abolish its current compound tariff rates on bananas, grapes,
calves, sheep and goats, yet has not incorporated any compound rates in its tariff offer, how
does Jordan intend to ensure that the tariffs applied are lower than the bound rate of duty?
Answer:
The review of the new Customs Law No. 20 of 1998 was completed in March 1999.  The
report was forwarded in April 1999 to the WTO Secretariat as part  of comments to the Elements of
Draft Report.  A summary of the report may be found in Paragraph 46 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6
dated June 1999.
Jordan prepared draft amendments to the Customs Law No. 20 to ensure full conformity with
the WTO requirements.  These amendments will be submitted to the Parliament in October 1999.   Acopy of the draft amendments will be submitted to the WTO Secretariat in September 1999.
Jordan intends to maintain compound duties on bananas, grapes, apple, calves, goats, and
sheep and has incorporated them in its tariff offer.
(c) Tariff quotas, tariff exemptions
Question 17.  
According to the response to question 24 in document WT/ACC/JOR/18, ten companies
including the Jordanian Tanning Company and the Vegetable Oil Factories Company continue
to receive tariff exemptions and that these terms will be phased-out automatically upon
expiration of terms.
Which products from these companies receive tariff exemptions? Also, it is stated that duty
exemptions will remain for companies that have Concessions and agreements with the
government.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 8
Please provide the terms of these concessions and agreements to the Working Party.  What are
the conditions these companies must meet under these agreements?
Please provide specifics on expiration of te rms? Is there a large variation in the various
expiration of terms in the agreements with the Government?
Answer:
The tariff exemptions apply on all imported products used for production, operations, and
expansion except the following items: Cars and spare parts, tires, petroleum products, vans and buses
and their spare parts, stationary, computers devices , air conditions, hand tools, consumption materials,
goods and materials used for employees house, products similar to Jordanian products.  As a
condition, exempted goods must be used for companies production, operations, and expansion.
None of these companies is exempted form income tax and none of the customs exemptions
are contingent upon export.
Customs duties exemptions for these companies will cease upon expiration of the terms of
concessions.
Company Name Terms of concessions and agreements; conditions; and expiration
Phosphate
Mining CompanyThe company has exclusive mining rights of Phosphate for four different mines
in Jordan, which are granted based on Law No. 12 of Natural Resources 1968.
Mining rights are usually granted for thirty years and are subject to
renegotiations and renewal once they expire. The company also has the
exclusive right (indefinite term) to import, store and sell explosive materialsused in the local market for mining and quarrying purposes.
PetroleumRefinery
CompanyThe concession Law No. 19 of 1958 was issued to approve the concession
agreement signed between the Jordanian Government and the Petroleum
Refinery Company. The term of concession grants the company the exclusive
right to refine oil and sell in Jordan. The company alone shall have the right to
import oil and Hydrocarbon necessary to the local market. The concession
expires in 2008.
Jordan CementFactories
CompanyThe Jordan Cement Factories has a concession for fifty years and it is valid
from 1951 to 2001. The company has the exclusive right to search, extract and
produce cement and its by-products in any area or land of the Hashemite
Kingdom of Jordan for the purpose of supplying the local market with all itscement demand. The concession expires in year 2001.
Arab PotashCompanyThe Arab Potash Company has a concession Agreement which was granted in
1958 and for 100 years according to law No. 16 of 1958, issued to approve the
concession agreement. The company has the exclusive right to mine and
extract Dead Sea minerals from the Dead Sea. The concession expires in year
2058.
JordanianTanning
CompanyThe Jordanian Tanning Co. has a concession agreement that was granted in
1962, for forty years, according to the Law No. 9 which approved the
concession agreement. The company has the exclusive right to import and
export rawhides and skins and also it has exclusive right to export tanned
leather. The concession expires in year 2002.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 9
Company Name Terms of concessions and agreements; conditions; and expiration
Jordanian
Electric
CompanyThe Jordanian Electric Co. has a concession agreement that was granted in
1961 for fifty years according to Law approving the concession agreement.
The company has exclusive right to distribute electric power to Amman, Zarqa,Madaba, Salt areas and suburbs with electricity power. The concession expires
in year 2012.
The company is not engaged in international trade activities and does not have
exclusive right to generate power. Its main objective is to distribute electric
power in the above mentioned areas. (n atural monopoly with regard to power
distribution at the local level)
Irbid Governorate
ElectricThe Irbid Electric Co. has a concession agreement that was granted in 1961, for
fifty years, according to Law No. 1 of 1961 approving the concession
agreement. The company has the exclusive right to distribute electric power toAjlun, Irbid, Mafraq and Jerash areas. The concession expires in year 2011.
The company is not engaged in international trade activities and does not have
exclusive right to generate power. Its main objective is to distribute electric
power in the above mentioned areas. (n atural monopoly with regard to power
distribution at the local level)
Vegetable OilFactoriesCompanyThe Vegetable Oil Factories Co. has exclusive right to Margarine to the local
market. Concession agreement was granted in 1956 for thirty years accordingto agreement has been extended for another fifteen years for. The concession
expires in year 2001.
However this is not implemented in practice.
Arab Company
for
Manufacturing
White CementThere is no concession agreement between the Jordanian Government and the
Arab Company for Manufacturing White Cement.
The company is exempted from paying customs duties as per cabinet decision
dated 10 November 1984.
Arab BridgeMaritime
CompanyThe company has a concession agreement that was granted in 1985 for fifty
years according to Maritime cooperation agreement between three Arab
countries (Jordan, Egypt, and Iraq). The company has the exclusive right to
transport cargo, mail and passengers from Aqaba to Noueibe and return.
The company is registered in Panama; and , therefore, is not subject to
Jordanian laws on income tax.
As may be noticed from the table above, there is large variation in the various expiration of
terms in the agreements with the government.
Question 18.  
Jordan states that it does not consider the cust oms duty exemptions for these companies to be
actionable subsidies under the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures.   
We continue to disagree with this statement, in that continued provision by the Government of
Jordan of the benefit on contracts remaining me ets the description of such a subsidy in the
indicative list in Annex I.   We seek Jordan’s cooperation in identifying the remaining period
during which these subsidies will apply, listing the scope of the subsidy, and addressing the needto eliminate its application in the context of the accession.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 10
Answer:
These subsidies are not prohibited subsidies. Therefore, there is no WTO justification for
eliminating these subsidies.  Although these subs idies may be considered as actionable subsidies
under the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures, their purpose is to encourage
production.  They are not intended to cause adverse effects to the interests of other countries.  If other
countries can prove according to the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures thatsuch subsidies are causing injury to their industr y, then Jordan will be ready to take appropriate
actions including immediate elimination or reduction of such subsidies if warranted.
As for the scope of these subsidies and the remaining period for their application, please see
the reply to Question 17 above.
(d) Other duties and charges
Question 19.  
Jordan should brief the WP on the steps it has ta ken since the last meeting to address the issue
of its non-tariff fees, taxes, and charges on imports to bring them into line with the WTO.
Jordan’s Law Unifying Taxes and Fees Applied to Imports and Re-exported Goods combines a
number of taxes, charges, and fees applied to im ports into the customs tariff.  Has that already
been done, i.e., do Jordan’s applied tariffs already reflect this unification?
Answer:
Jordan's applied tariff already reflects this unification.  In addition, please see the report on
fees/charges.
Question 20.  
This law also states that, in addition to th e customs tariff, imports of sheep and goats are
charged 2 JD per head and imported calves 10 JD per head.  Is this tax applied to domestic
livestock as well?  If not, what is the WTO justification for this import tax?
Answer:
Prior to February 1997, these were part of customs duties:
- Sheep and goats: 5 per cent + 2 JD/head
- Calves: 5 per cent + 10 JD/head
In February 1997, a 2 JD/head for sheep and goats and 10 JD/head for calves were introduced
in Law No. 7 of 1997 on Unification of Taxes and Duties
In March 1997, the 2 JD/head for sheep and goats and 10 JD/head for calves were eliminated
from customs duties.  Only 5 per cent customs duty remained for calves, sheep, and goats.
Jordan plans to (1) amend Law No. 7 before accession to the WTO to eliminate the 2 JD/head
for sheep and goats and 10 JD/head for calves and (2) re-introduce in its customs tariff schedule these
two compound rates as was the case prior to February 1997.
Question 21.  
The response to question 31 states that currently, Jordan is evaluating the application an import
fee on transistor radios.  Can Jordan gives an  update on its disposition of the current fee?WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 11
Answer:
Jordan made a decision to eliminate the import fee on transistor radio.  Legal measures will
come into effect to eliminate such practice before the end of October 1999.
Question 22.  
Jordan states that it intends to address its seasonal exemptions for customs duties and import
fees granted for certain agricultural products not currently applied on a most-favored nation
basis by reviewing its current trade agreements.  Jordan also states that non-tariff ad-valorem
charges for exchange permits, re-exported goods tax, and overtime wage fees for re-exported
and imported goods will be dealt with in the context of establishing its WTO tariff schedule.
Please update the WP on efforts made to address these issues.  What steps is Jordan taking to
eliminate the non-MFN seasonal exemptions and the non-tariff charges on applied to imports
and re-exports?
Answer:
Seasonal exemptions for customs duties are granted only to a number of Arab countries with
which Jordan has currently protocol trade.  Jordan  intends to maintain these preferences within the
context of the Arab Free Trade Area.  As for other issues raised in this question, please see the Report
on Fees/Charges (WT/ACC/JOR/27).
Question 23.  
The reply to question 35 and 38 states that Jordan will brief the WP on what it will do to bring
its remaining import fees applied on an ad valorem basis into line with WTO, i.e., Article VIII.
These import fees include:
- the fine for importing without an importer card,
- the fee for overtime services,
- consular fees for certifying commercial bills
- 86.5 Fils on each imported packet of 20 cigarettes,
- JD 10 and JD 3 for viewing video films,
- overtime fee of 0.002 of the c.i.f. value of  the imported good that exceeds JD 50
an 0.001 on goods in transit,
- a mining fee of JD 25/per ton for the export of scrap iron,
- a valuation fee of 2 per cent on re-exported foreign goods.
Jordan should list all such remaining non-tariff charges, where necessary by HS tariff number,
and indicate how it intends to address these measures.
We seek Jordan’s cooperation in assuring that th e non-tariff taxes, charges, and fees applied to
imports meet WTO criteria, e.g., that customs char ges are related to the cost of the service
requiring the fee, and not the value of the import; that taxes are applied as well to domestic
goods, and that all tariff charges are applied below the negotiated bindings.
We seek a commitment from Jordan that it le vies no duties and charges on imports other than
ordinary customs duties and charges for services rendered.  Any such charges applied to
imports after accession should be in accordan ce with WTO provisions.  We seek confirmation
that Jordan would not list any other charge s in its Goods Market Access Schedule under
Article II:1(b) of GATT 1994, binding such charges at "zero".
Answer:WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 12
Please see the Report on Fees/Charges (WT/ACC/JOR/27).
(e) Quantitative Import Restrictions
Question 24.  
Concerning the response to question 41, on the importation of used cars, for Jordan’s
application of 34 different standards to the import of used cars to be WTO consistent, the same
standards must be applied to used cars wi thin Jordan, and applied in a similar manner.
Please indicate how Jordan intends to apply th ese standards to the sale and use of used cars
produced domestically.
Answer:
Jordanian standards on cars are currently suspended and are likely to be totally withdrawn.
When applied, however, the same standards are applied equally on imported and locally manufactured
cars in Jordan.
Question 25.  
Concerning the response to question 44, on th e importation of sheep over age 1.5 years and the
response to question 47 on diesel powered transport, Jordan’s responses do not indicate that
either current regime is consistent with WTO provisions.  The explanations given cast doubt on
Jordan’s willingness or ability to implement th e WTO Agreements on SPS and TBT in the near
term.   We seek Jordan’s review of these responses with a view to proposing a plan with specificbenchmarks for the elimination of the bans and their progressive replacement with appropriate,
WTO consistent measures applied within the parameters of the TBT and SPS agreements.  Can
Jordan provide a timetable as to when these measures will be eliminated?
Answer:
Jordan decided to eliminate the ban on mineral water and replace it with automatic import
licensing (Council of Ministers Decision dated 25 March 1999).  Jordan also decided to eliminate the
ban on table salt.  The legal measure regarding decision on table salt will be adopted in October 1999.
Jordan decided to eliminate the restrictions on the import of cars that are older than 5 years
(and recently older than 7 years).  Legal measures for bringing this into effect will be adopted in
October 1999.
Regarding the restrictions on the import of sheep older than 1.5 year, a technical committee
consisting of representatives from the Ministry of Agriculture, the Jordan Institute of Standards and
Metrology, and the concerned institutions with the private sector have been working on developing
technical regulations for live sheep and carcasses.  As soon as these technical regulations are adopted
(expected in 1999), such restrictions will be eliminated.
Regarding the ban on the import of diesel powered vehicles, such restriction will not be lifted
until Jordan's refinery is modernized to produce lower sulfur diesel fuel.  The percentage of sulfur in
the diesel fuel produced by Jordan petroleum Refinery is high.  This percentage in Jordan reaches 1.5
per cent whereas acceptable ranges in other countries are much lower.   The high sulfur content leads
to high intensity of sulfur oxide that subsequently causes negative impacts on both the environment
and the health of population.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 13
At this point, Jordan does not plan to eliminate the current prohibition on the import of plastic
waste.  Processing plastic waste is a major envir onmental problem in Jordan.  Until now, it has not
been possible to control the process of gathering, transporting and processing plastic waste on the
basis of scientific principles.  In addition, recycling plastic waste is very limited in Jordan.  Hence,
importing plastic waste will aggravate the current problem and may lead to other problems.  To date,
Jordanian factories have not been able to process Jordanian plastic waste.
Question 26.  
Jordan’s ability to deal successfully with such clear and visible violations of WTO provisions
will build confidence in its commitment to movi ng its trade regime into conformity with the
WTO Agreement.
Concerning the ban on mineral water and table sa lt, we urge Jordan to eliminate this ban and
establish appropriate tariff-based regulation for their importation.  Could Jordan update the
Working Party as to when these bans will be lifted?
Answer:
Please see the reply to Question 25 above.
Question 27.  
The Jordanian authorities should indicate, in a manner as clear as possible, whether or not an
import license can be granted. A comprehensive list of items subject to prior approval andimport licensing should also be provided. The list should be based on the HS numbers, and an
alleged justification with the WTO Agreement should be described. Prior approval of some
items, such as certain electric apparatus and inst ruments listed in Table 4, cannot, in our view,
be justified under national security, safety, health and environment.
Answer:
Please see the Report on Jordan's Import/Export Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
(f) Import licensing procedures
Question 28.  
Jordan has stated a number of times in this section that it will prepare a report for the Working
Party in response to questions posed at the thir d WP meeting.  We seek Jordan’s circulation of
that report for WP review, and that the sp ecific questions posed receive response.
On several occasions, Jordan indicates that th e Response to question 49 will answer other
questions.  The response to question 49 is inadequate in most cases, as it does not directlyaddress the request for specific information on the requirements.
As indicated in WT/ACC/JOR/18, It is apparent from the responses that Jordan is still using
quantitative restrictions, prior permits, and import licensing to restrict importation of many
products.  These restrictions cannot, in general, be justified as exceptions to the requirements of
GATT Article XI or under other WTO provisions.  Some of the measures appear to violate
GATT national treatment and MFN provisions.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 14
Jordan should indicate, prior to the next WP meeting, how it intends to deal with these
measures, i.e., to eliminate the quantitative restr iction and bring its licensing requirements into
line with the WTO Agreement on Import Licensing .
Jordan should undertake to eliminate or amend these measures prior to accession.  If a delay is
sought, Jordan should make specific proposal s on the timetable it seeks for the progressive
removal of the barrier as soon as possible.
Answer:
Please see the Report on Jordan's new Import/Export Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
Question 29.  
Concerning the response to question 49 in WT/ACC/JOR/18 we are pleased to hear that Jordan
is examining the list of products subject to pr ior approval and plans to eliminate those products
that cannot be justified under WTO rules.
We suggest, however, that Jordan also review the application of the WTO Agreement on Import
Licensing Procedures.  Licensing for statistical purposes is, by definition, automatic.  And
Jordan must implement, prior to accession, the transparency and due process requirements of
the Agreement in the administration of all-licen sing requirements or prior permit restrictions
that act as licenses.
We seek a report from Jordan, prior to its ne xt WP, on its progress in removing the current
restrictions and replacing them with WTO-consistent measures, including an updated list of
products remaining subject to prior approval and a time frame for elimination or revision of
these requirements.
Answer:
Please see the Report on Jordan's new Import/Export Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
Question 30.  
Concerning Jordan’s prior approval safety justification for H.S. items 9501, 9503.20, 9504 why
wouldn’t a one-time approval of these products address Jordan's concerns?
Answer:
Please see the Report on Jordan's new Import/Export Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
Question 31.  
Concerning the category 8543, this tariff category is too broad and probably contains a number
of subcategories.  Would Jordan please breakdo wn these products by 6-digit HS and provide
prior approval justification for each item.
Answer:
Actually there is only one item now: 85.43.89.   This will be subject to non-automatic
licensing under Jordan's new import/export licensing regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 15
Question 32.  
For HS items: 8525,8531,8543.209,8526.91,8525, 8525.201, 8517.11, 8518.10, 8517, 8543.899,
8529, 8529.101, 8543.891, and 2106.90.  We believe that if Jordan should find it necessary to
maintain prior approvals, it could address its na tional security and health concerns with a one-
time certification process (also known as type certification).  This process would eliminate the
prior approval requirement for each piece of equipment and provide for an efficient one-timeapproval.
Answer:
Please see Report on Jordan's New Import/E xport Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
Question 33.  
Specific to HS items 2941, 3002, 3003, and 3004:  Would certification from the U.S. Food and
Drug Administration address Jordan's health concerns on this product for imports from the
United States?  What are Jordan’s reasons for re-certification requirements?
Answer:
Jordan does not require re-certification for the following imports: HS items 2941, 3002, 3003,
and 3004.  Registration of all medicaments and antibiotics, however, is required in Jordan as the case
in any other country.  Once medicaments or antibiotics are registered in Jordan, then they may be
imported into Jordan.  Automatic licensing under the new import/export licensing regime is requiredto simply ensure that the imported medicaments or antibiotics are registered in Jordan.
FDA certification is required for importing every batch of products of human origin.
Question 34.  
Concerning question 70, the Food and Drug Administration already requires pharmaceutical
products (medicaments) to state the expiration  date on each pharmaceutical container label.
Since the Food and Drug Administration already requires pharmaceutical products
(medicaments) to state the expiration date on each pharmaceutical container label, wouldn’t
this expiration date required by the FDA on all medicine containers address Jordan’s concern?
If not, please explain why.
Answer:
The expiration date required by the Food and Drug Administration addresses Jordan's needs
and is honoured in Jordan.
Question 35.  
The response to question 49 states that the legislation governing prior approvals vary from one
government institution or ministry to another.  In  general, the main criterion to provide a prior
approval is to determine whether or not the product in question has impact on health, safety,
environment, national security, public order and moral, and conservation of natural resources.
There is no time limit provided in legislation for issuing prior approvals.  It, however, varies
from one ministry to another; from one day to one year provided that all required documents
are submitted.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 16
Jordan should review these criteria and ensure their consistency with the Agreement on Import
Licensing Procedures, as well as the substantive requirements of other relevant WTO
Agreements, e.g., Articles XX and XXI of the GATT, and the WTO Agreements on Agriculture,
TBT, and SPS.
Answer:
Please see Report on Jordan's New Import/E xport Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
Question 36.  
Concerning the response to question 54:  Woul d you elaborate on the eligibility requirements
for enterprises applying to import goods, which require prior approval?
Answer:
Please see Report on Jordan's New Import/E xport Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
Question 37.  
The response to question 55 is inadequate.  Depending on the nature of the licensing
requirement, Jordan is obligated under WTO provisions to provide an opportunity for prior
comment, including notification that this o pportunity exists.  Jordan should review its
procedures with a view to bringing them into conformity with the WTO.
Answer:
Please see Report on Jordan's New Import/E xport Licensing Regime (WT/ACC/JOR/28).
 (h) Customs valuation
Question 38.  
Paragraph 72 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6 states th at Jordan’s new Customs Law No. 20 conform
largely to the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement.  It states further that the transaction value
is to be used for customs purposes, and notes that the Jordanian representative has confirmedthat the Article 5.2 valuation method would also be used.  Presumably, the alternative valuation
methodologies incorporated in the Customs Valuation Agreement are included in Articles 28 to
32 of Jordan's Customs Law No. 20 of 1998.  Articles 28-32, however, do not contain all aspects
of the Agreement.
Can Jordan states that Customs Law No. 20 in fact, comprises all aspects of the CV Agreement?
If not, what portions seem to be missing.
Does Jordan have other laws or regulations that cover customs valuation?  How does Jordan
intend to proceed to implement the Agreement?
Answer:
The review of the new Customs Law No. 20 of 1998 was completed in March 1999.  The
report was forwarded in April 1999 to the WTO Secretariat as part of comments to the Elements of
Draft Report.  A summary of the report may be found in Paragraph 46 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6
dated June 1999.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 17
Jordan prepared draft amendments to the Customs law No. 20 to ensure full conformity with
the WTO Customs Valuation Agreement.  Draft amendments will be submitted to Parliament in
October 1999.  A copy of the draft amendments will be submitted in September 1999 to the WTO
Secretariat.
In October 1999, Jordan will be adopting the Interpretive Notes (as is) of the WTO Customs
Valuation Agreement in the form of implementing regulations.  In addition, instructions will be issuedin December 1999 on customs valuation of carrier medium bearing software and interest charges.
(j) Preshipment inspection
Question 39.  
As Jordan has stated on several occasions that it intends to implement a contract for pre-
shipment inspection services, we expect that Jordan will submit information to the Working
Party as soon as possible, e.g., the requirements of the tender for PSI services and the substance
of the contract that develops.
Jordan should understand that it is responsible for ensuring that the operations of this firm
meet WTO norms, after accession, including that charges and fees are consistent with Article
VIII, that the firms observes the due process and transparency requirements of the relevant
WTO Agreements, in particular, GATT Article X, the Agreement on Preshipment Inspection
and the Agreement on the Implementation of Article VII of the GATT 1994, as well as the
substantive provisions of these Agreements.
Answer:
Jordan does not have in place a system of pre-shipment inspection.  In addition, Jordan does
not intend to establish such system in the near future.
In case of the introduction of pre-shipment inspection in the future, however, Jordan will
ensure that it will be in full conformity with  the WTO Agreement on Pre-shipment Inspection.  In
addition, Jordan will ensure that the operations of the preshipment inspection firm will meet WTO
norms including that charges and fees are consistent with Article VIII, that the firms observe the due
process and transparency requirements of the relevant WTO Agreements, in particular, GATT Article
X, the Agreement on Preshipment Inspection and the Agreement on the Implementation of Article VIIof the GATT 1994, as well as the substantive provisions of these Agreements.
(k) Application of internal taxes on imports
Question 40.  
Jordan’s applied sales tax rates, which is applied at a higher rate on a wide range of imported
products when compared to domestically-produ ced goods, discriminates against imported goods
and violates Article III of the GATT  1994
Per the response to question 78-82, we take note of Jordan's stated intention to remove the
differential rates of General Sales Tax prior to ac cession and its plans to enact legal measures to
bring its regime into conformity with Article III of the GATT 1994 before the end of 1999, but
we note that no plan is described to accomplish this goal, and no indication is given that any
specific action has been taken since the last WP to address the issue.
What specifically has Jordan done to add ress this issue since the last WP meeting?WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 18
We are encouraged by Jordan’s intention, but we would like to see draft legislation as soon as
possible outlining how Jordan intends to change this practice.  We also look forward to
reviewing a table listing Jordan's new tax levels, as soon as possible.
Answer:
The Ministry of Finance is currently preparing amendments to the General Sales Tax Law in
order to bring the application of General Sales Tax into full conformity with the Article III of theGATT 1994.  Draft amendments will be ready for submission to the WTO during October 1999.
Amendments are expected to be adopted by  the Parliament during October/November 1999.
(l) Rules of origin
Question 41.  
Articles 24-27 of the new Customs Code are inadequate in addressing the provisions of the
Agreement on Rules of Origin.   Does Jordan has any additional laws or regulations that
address the Agreement?
Answer:
Jordan prepared draft amendments to the Cust oms Law No. 20 to ensure conformity with the
WTO Rules of Origin.  These amendments will be submitted to the Parliament in October 1999.   A
copy of the draft amendments will be submitted to the WTO Secretariat in September 1999.
Jordan plans to adopt the Harmonized Rules of Origin once passed by the Committee on
Rules of Origin of the WTO in its final form.
Question 42.  
In light of the lack of progress in addressing th is issue, we re-submit the original questions for
substantive response, in the hope that Jordan will develop real legislation establishing rules of
origin based on international norms.
We welcome Jordan's statement from last year that it is working on developing its rules of
origin and shall do its best to assume the obligations under the Agreement on Rules of Origin as
soon as possible. We look forward to receiving a description of the rules of origin under
development.
- Please provide a description, and as soon as possible, a copy of the legislation, to
the Working Party.
- We also would appreciate a translation of the relevant provisions for the rules of
origin of Jordan's preferential arrangements.
- Please provide an update on the Government of Jordan's efforts to implement
the WTO Agreement on Rules of Origin, including the status of draft legislationor regulations.
- What is Jordan's time table for the implementation of the Rules of Origin
Agreement prior to the date of WTO accession?WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 19
We look forward to receiving a description of the rules of origin under development, as noted in
response to question 131 of WT/ACC/JOR/13 and to questions 83 and 84 of WT/ACC/JOR/18.
Please provide a description, and as soon as possible, a copy of the legislation, to the Working
Party.
While we appreciate Jordan's assurance that  it will ensure conformity with the WTO
Agreement on Rules of Origin prior to the date of WTO accession we need to see tangibleevidence that Jordan is moving to develop legi slation that would accomplish that objective.
Answer:
Please see the reply to Question 41 above.
(m-o)     Anti-dumping, countervailing duties and safeguards
Question 43.  
We are reviewing the National Production Protection Law No. 4 for the year 1998 and the chart
provided in response to question 86 of WT/ACC/JOR/18 in detail.  We will have detailedcomments later, in writing.  We commend Jordan for its efforts in drawing up the law, which is
a good attempt to capture basic elements of the WTO Safeguard Agreement.  We look forward
to receiving copies of the regulations as well.  Is  the law in operation yet?  If so, have there been
any cases yet and what was their disposition?  Please submit the regulations for Antidumping
and Countervailing Duty application as soon as possible, for WP review.
Answer:
Currently, Jordan is in the process of drafting regulations on countervailing, anti-dumping,
and safeguard measures.   These are expected to be finalized in October 1999.  Draft will be submitted
to the WTO Secretariat as soon as finalized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
The Law on Protection of National Production came into effect in December 1998.
Seventeen cases have been filed at the Ministry of industry and Trade.  No decisions were made
regarding any of these cases.
Question 44.  
The current situation of Jordan and its future action plan to introduce and anti-dumping
legislation should be informed to the Wor king Party and reflected in its Report.
Answer:
The Law on Protection of National Production came into effect in December 1998.  Jordan is
in the process of drafting implementing regulations on countervailing, anti-dumping, and safeguardmeasures.   These are expected to be finalized in October 1999.  Drafts of these regulations will be
submitted to the WTO Secretariat as soon as finalized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
 2. Export Regulations
(d) Export licensing proceduresWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 20
Question 45.  
We are pleased Jordan is phasing out export pr ior approvals, which violate Article XI of the
GATT.   Please provide a timetable for the elimination of the prior approval requirement for the
exportation of these items.
Answer:
Prior approvals for the following items were recently eliminated: Halibuna (milk), precious metals,
including gold and silver bullion and coins.  The following remaining products will be subject to
automatic export licensing.  Please see the report on the new import/export licensing regime.
Product
Wheat
Wheat flour and other wheat products (semolina, bran, broken wheat)
Sugar
Rice (ordinary brand)
Milk for industrial use
Ewes and cows
Marble slabs
Broken marble
Mineral ores
Radioactive materials and sources, and exhausted uranium
Fresh fruit and vegetables destined to protocol trade countries
(e) Other measures
Question 46.  
Jordan's re-export fee for services rendered collected by the Customs Authority are assessed at
the rate of 2 per cent of declared value as an inspection fees and 0.2 percent of declared value
for customs overtime fees.
Neither of these fees is related to the cost of th e service.  By definition, they are based on the
value of the good.  This is not consistent with the provisions of Article VIII of the GATT and
Jordan should revise it.
Answer:
Please see the Report on Fees/Charges (WT/ACC/JOR/27).
(f) Export Financing, Subsidy and Promotion Policies
Question 47.  
Jordan’s interest rate subsidies for loans to promote exports appear to be prohibited subsidies
within the meaning of Article 3 of the SCM Agreement.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 21
In addition, the exemption from income tax of profits from exports noted in the response to
question 7, provided for in Ministerial Decision  No. 3394 of 1994 (authorized by Article 3/C of
the Income Tax Law No. 57 of 1985) would also appear to be the sort of subsidy prohibited by
Article 3 of the SCM Agreement.
- We seek the immediate elimination or revi sion of the programme, notification of
the remaining subsidies in place from previous use of the programme, and aspecific commitment from Jordan to terminate all remaining such subsidies
prior to December 31, 2002.
Answer:
Currently Jordan maintains the following two export subsidies:
1. The Income Tax Law No. 57 of 1985 and its amendments authorize the Cabinet of
Ministers to grant profits on certain exports partial or total exemptions from income
tax.  Pursuant to this law, a Cabinet's decision (No. 3394 of 1994) was issued
exempting profits on all exports (except phosphate and potash) to non-protocol
countries from income tax.  Non-protocol countries are all countries except Israel,
Lebanon, the Palestinian National Authority, and Saudi Arabia
2. The Central Bank discounts commercial documents used to finance Jordanian exports
to a lower than the going interest rate
Jordan commits to eliminate these two export subsidies prior to December 31, 2002.
Appropriate legal measures will be taken prior to 31 December 2002.
The Ministry of Finance does not maintain statistics concerning the export subsidies on
exports to non-protocol countries.  The Central Bank of Jordan does not maintain requested statistics.
Question 48.  
According to the response to question 93 of WT /ACC/JOR/18, Cabinet of Ministers Decision No
12/11/4 dated 30 December 1997 provides that companies registered according to the JordanianCompany Law and specialized in "external marketing, advertising and exporting local
products" and are limited to the export, marketing, and promotion of Jordanian products
abroad, with a minimum paid capital of (JD 2,000,000) are eligible to be Jordanian Export
Companies, which are exempt from  income tax on their profits.
- The purpose of this measure is to promote exports through exemption from
income tax of profits, and is directly linked to export activity.  It would also
appear to be a subsidy prohibited by Article 3 of the SCM Agreement.
- We seek the immediate elimination or revision of the programme and the phased
elimination of any benefits already granted.
- It is very disappointing that, even after initiating discussions in the WP, Jordan
has been enacting laws that direct ly conflict with WTO provisions.
Answer:
Although Cabinet of Ministers Decision No. 12/11/4 dated 30 December 1997 has been in
effect for approximately, no Jordanian Export Companies have been registered yet.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 22
Jordan is evaluating this programme to determine whether or not it falls under Article 3 of the
SCM agreement and will report on this issue early October 1999.
Question 49.  
Jordan stated in response to question 96 of WT /ACC/SPEC/JOR/6 that it will provide before
the next Working Party meeting a report on its current measures (prohibited subsidies) which
violate the WTO Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures.  Has Jordan providedthis report?  If not, when can we expect it?
Jordan states that it plans to seek transition for phasing out prohibited subsidies under Article
27 of the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures.
Jordan is not automatically entitled to any phase out period for these subsidies, or to leave any
provisions of them in place for the duratio n agreed upon when they were granted after
accession.
Answer:
The report was forwarded in April 1999 to the WTO Secretariat as part of comments to the
Elements of Draft Report.  A summary of the report may be found in Paragraph 99 of
WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6.
3. Internal Policies Affecting Foreign Trade in Goods
(b) Technical regulations and standards
(c) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures
Question 50.  
In response to questions 97 to 104, Jordan states that it is in the process of reviewing its current
legal regime for conformity with the SPS and TBT Agreements and will provide reports
regarding these matters during the next Working Party meeting.  Has Jordan provided thisreport?  If not, when can we expect it?  Could Jordan provide an update on its efforts in this
regard?
We believe it would be useful for Jordan when it develops its implementation plan for SPS and
TBT to provide a chart for each of these Ag reements listing the requirements and the legal
citation or draft legislation that will implement it.
Answer:
Jordan conducted an assessment of its legislation connected with TBT and SPS and
determined that new laws have to be enacted in order to fully conform to the WTO TBT and SPS
agreements.  The following draft laws have been prepared and will be submitted to the Parliament and
the WTO Secretariat early October 1999:
- Draft Law on Standards and Metrology  to address TBT and SPS requirements
(except seed control).  This will replace Law No.15 on Standards and Metrology;
- Draft Law on Agriculture to address SPS plant and animal and TBT seed control;
- Draft Law on Food to address SPS food aspects.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 23
The draft law on standards and metrology will be submitted to the WTO Secretariat on
September 20. The draft law on Agriculture and the draft law on food will be submitted during period
September 21-October 4.
The draft laws bring Jordan’s foreign trade regime into full conformity with the WTO
agreements on TBT and SPS.  The TBT conformity chart is provided in Attachment A.  This should
be read in conjunction with the draft law on standards and metrology.  The SPS conformity chart willbe prepared and forwarded to the WTO Secretariat as soon as the Draft Law on Food is finalized.
This is likely to take place during the first week of October 1999.
Quality Mark regulation 49/1997 and Quality Mark Instructions will be submitted to the
WTO Secretariat in September 1999.
Jordan is ready to implement fully the TBT and SPS agreements upon accession provided that
technical assistance and support (including financial) will be provided by WTO members with regard
to modernization of testing laboratories in Jordan, border inspection, sampling procedures as well astraining of personnel.  Action plans for implementing WTO TBT and SPS agreements are provided in
Attachment B.
Question 51.  
In the response to question 102, Jordan outlin ed two standards for foodstuff shelf-life
requirements.   We are reviewing these and will provide written comments.  Could Jordanconfirm that it maintains no other standards with respect to shelf-life requirements?  What
procedures are in place for developing or modifying shelf-life requirements?
Answer:
There are two Jordanian standards for shelf-life requirements of foodstuff:
- Jordan Standard 288:  1994 on Shelf Life for Foodstuff issued and administered by
the Jordan Institution for Standards and Metrology;
- Jordan Standard 401: 1997 on Shelf Life for Infant and Children's Foodstuff issued
and administered by the Jordan Institution for Standards and Metrology.
Jordan maintains no other standards with respect to shelf-life requirements for foodstuff.
Shelf-life requirements, like any other Jordanian standards, are developed and modified by
specialized technical committees taking into consideration the climate and storage conditions in
Jordan.  The process of preparing, amending, and adopting standards is according to the TBT Annex 3
Code of Good Practice.  This is also stipulated in the draft law on standards and metrology.
Shelf life requirements for foodstuff apply equally on both imported and domestic goods.
Question 52.  
Further information on the Jordanian action plan to implement the TBT and SPS Agreements
should be informed to the Working Party. Addi tionally, the current situation and future action
plan to establish and Enquiry Point and any othe r information centres should also be informed.
Answer:WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 24
Jordan conducted an assessment of its legislation connected with TBT and SPS and
determined that new laws have to be enacted in order to fully conform to the WTO TBT and SPS
agreements.  The following draft laws have been prepared and will be submitted to the Parliament and
the WTO Secretariat early October 1999:
- Draft Law on Standards and Metrology to address TBT and SPS requirements (except
seed control).  This will replace Law No.15 on Standards and Metrology.
- Draft Law on Agriculture to address SPS plant and animal and TBT seed control
- Draft Law on Food to address SPS food aspects
The draft law on standards and metrology will be submitted to the WTO Secretariat in
September 1999. The draft law on Agriculture and the draft law on food will be submitted during
period September - October 1999.
The draft laws bring Jordan’s foreign trade regime into full conformity with the WTO
agreements on TBT and SPS.  The TBT conformity chart is provided in Attachment A.  This should
be read in conjunction with the draft law on standards and metrology.  The SPS conformity chart will
be prepared and forwarded to the WTO Secretariat as soon as the Draft Law on Food is finalized.This is likely to take place during the first week of October 1999.
Jordan is ready to implement fully the TBT and SPS agreements upon accession provided that
technical assistance and support (including financial) will be provided by WTO members with regard
to modernization of testing laboratories in Jordan, border inspection, sampling procedures as well astraining of personnel.  Action plans for implementing WTO TBT and SPS agreements are provided in
Attachment B.
The Jordanian Institute of Standards and Metrology shall work as an inquiry point for TBT,
and the Ministry of Agriculture shall work as an inquiry point for SPS.
Question 53.  
We welcome Jordan's renewed commitment to implement WTO TBT and SPS Agreements.
We believe that Jordan should develop an action  plan to accomplish this, and for each of the
items detailed in the response to question 154 of WT/ACC/JOR/13 as being currently deficient,
describe the steps that are being taken and the expected time table for bring them into
conformity with the WTO TBT and SPS Agreements.
Answer:
Please see the replies to Question 50 through Question 52 above.
(e) State-trading practices
Question 54.  
Concerning the companies listed in response to question 43, 45, and 109 of WT/ACC/JOR/18:
Please provide the legal justification for allowing these companies to have exclusive import and
export rights.
Answer:
Please see the Report on State Trading (WT/ACC/JOR/26).WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 25
Question 55.  
We understand that Jordan seeks to maintain these rights for the duration of the concessions.
Please define the duration of the concessions.   Are these concessions accorded as conditions of
investment or merely as preferences accorded to domestic producers, whether state trading
enterprises or not?   As conditions of investment  in Jordan they would appear to be concessions
that conflict with the TRIMs Agreement.
Answer:
Please see the Report on State Trading (WT/ACC/JOR/26).
Question 56.  
Jordan states that it is analyzing which of th ese companies fall under the definition of State
trading.  Annex 6 of WT/ACC/1.
Jordan should notify all companies with state- sanctioned trade monopolies as state trading
enterprises according to the definition provide d under the Understanding of the Interpretation
of Article XVII of the GATT 1994 and should subm it information on their activities based on
the questionnaire on state trading in Annex VI of WT/ACC/1.
We seek a commitment from Jordan along the following lines:
xx. .... The representative of Jordan stated that his Government had identified the
trading activities of the firms listed above as subject to the provisions ofArticle XVII of the GATT 1994, and is prepared to notify these firms as state
trading enterprises within the meaning of Article XVII and the Understanding
upon accession.
xx.  The representative of Jordan confirme d that after accession to the WTO, Jordan
would observe the provisions of Article XVII of the GATT 1994, the WTOUnderstanding on that Article, and Article VIII of the GATS regarding State
trading, in particular abiding by the provisions for notification, non-
discrimination, and the application of commercial considerations for trade
transactions.  The Working Party took note of these commitments.
Answer:
Please see the Report on State Trading (WT/ACC/JOR/26).
 (l) Government procurement practices
Question 57.  
We seek a commitment from Jordan along the following lines:
xx. The representative of Jordan confirmed that, upon accession to the WTO,
Jordan would initiate negotiations for membership in the Agreement on
Government Procurement by tabling an enti ty offer.  He also confirmed that, if
the results of the negotiations were satisfactory to the interests of Jordan and the
other members of the Agreement, Jordan would complete negotiations forWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 26
membership in the Agreemen t within a year of accession.  The Working Party
took note of these commitments.
Answer:
Jordan agrees to the proposed commitment above.
4. Policies Affecting Trade in Agricultural Products
Question 58.  
Jordan stated in WT/ACC/JOR/18 that it would provide revised WT/ACC/4 documentation in
March.   When does Jordan expect to ci rculate the revised information?
Answer:
A revised WT/ACC/ 4 was sent to the WTO Secretariat in March 1999
(WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/2/Rev.1).
V. TRADE-RELATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY REGIME
Question 59.  
We are pleased to note recent progress by Jordan  in the area of intellectual property rights
protection, namely its accession to the Berne Treaty, which provides copyright protection in
Jordan for foreign produced books, motion pictures, and software.  We look to Jordan to build
on this success by also joining Geneva Phonog rams, to provide similar protection for sound
recordings.
We advocate accession to the Geneva Phonograms Convention over the Rome Convention to
insure protection of all foreign works, including  sound recordings.
It will be helpful to hear from the Government of Jordan on the status of drafting efforts for
Industrial Protection and other legislation needed to bring Jordan's IP regime in line with
TRIPS standards.  In general, we remain concerned by potentially overly broad compulsorylicensing provisions, as we have already seen in the copyright area.
We are also interested in hearing more about Jordan's enforcement efforts, based on existing
laws, or any changes that the Government of Jordan believes are necessary to come into
compliance with Part III of TRIPS.
We look forward to our continued work together, in this and other fora, to work towards
TRIPS compliance at the time of WTO accession.
We understand the Secretariat is providing a checklist on remaining actions needed for
Jordan's full compliance with TRIPS.  We request that Jordan complete this chart and circulate
it to the WP for review.  We believe this will be a helpful exercise.
Answer:
Jordan launched in 1999 a major reform of its intellectual property regime.  The following
table shows the status of such reform.  A TRIPS conformity chart will be provided before the end of
September 1999 to working party members.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 27
Law Status of Draft Expected1 Approval
Date  (Parliament)2
Amendments to the Law on
Trademarks No. 33 of 1952Approved by Parliament (both houses)  September 1999
Law on Patents Approved by Parliament (both houses)  September 1999
Amendments to the Law on
Copyrights No. 22 of 1992Approved by Parliament (both houses)  September 1999
Law on Industrial Design Being discussed at the Council of
Minister (CM); submission to the
Parliament is expected in October 1999October/November
1999
Law on Integrated Circuits Being discussed at the CM;  submission
to the Parliament is expected in October
1999October/November
1999
Law on Geographical
IndicationsFinalized at the Ministry of Industry;
submission to the CM is expected in
September 1999 and to the Parliament
in October 1999October/November
1999
Law on Trade Secrets Finalized at the Ministry of Industry
and Trade; submission to the CM isexpected at the end of September 1999
and to the Parliament in October 1999October/November
1999
Law on Unfair Competition Being prepared at the Ministry of
Industry and Trade; submission to theCM is expected at the end of September
1999 and to the Parliament in October
1999October/November
1999
Law on Plant VarietyProtectionBeing prepared at the Ministry of
Agriculture; submission to the CM is
expected in October 1999 and to
Parliament in November 1999October/November
1999
Regulations/InstructionsStatus of Draft Expected Adoption
Date
Regulations on BorderEnforcement of Intellectual
property RightsBeing drafted; submission to the CM is
expected in November 1999  December 1999
Regulations on Copyrights Being drafted; submission to the CM is
expected in November 1999December 1999
Regulations on Integrated
CircuitsBeing drafted; submission to the CM is
expected in November 1999December 1999
First, Jordan would like to report that the Council of Ministers approved accession to the
Berne Convention.  A Royal Decree in this regard was issued in July 1999.
                                                     
1 Draft laws (other than the first three draft laws) will be on the agenda of Parliament for its Ordinary
Session (October 1999-March 2000) with the expectation of securing the approval of Parliament for these lawsin October/November 1999
2 Royal Ascent and publication in official gazette are required after the approval of Parliament in order
for the law to be enactedWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 28
Jordan's replies to the specific issues raised are the following:
- Regarding the new regime governing copyrights, the amendments passed the
Parliament in September 1999.   The new law covers all artistic, literary works and
neighboring rights for all the producers without any distinction regarding nationality.
- Compulsory licenses: As for the Copyright Compulsory Licensing Provisions, the
Copyright Law is in full compliance with Berne Convention Appendix. Theprovisions in the Copyright Amendment Law, and specifically Article (3) amending
Article (11) of the Original Law, is in full compliance with Article 2,3,4 of Berne
Appendix. Article (3) states that there will be regulations issued to implement the
compulsory licenses. The compulsory license provisions in other laws are in full
compliance with the mentioned agreements.  In the patent Law, Articles 22,23,24,25,
and 26 are in full compliance with Article 31 of TRIPS.  The draft Law for the
protection of Integrated Circuits in Article 16 is in full compliance with Article 31 ofTRIPS.
- Enforcement: The provisional measures as mentioned in TRIPS were adopted in all
the intellectual property Laws: Article 13 amending Article 46, and Article 14
amending Article 47 of The Copyright Law, Article 29 of the Patent Law, Article 14
amending Article 39 of the Trademark Law, and the same provisions will be adoptedin the other drafts.
- Criminal and civil procedures: Article 28 of the Patent Law, Article 13 amending
Article 38 of the Trademarks Law, Article 51 of the original Copyright Law, all those
provide penalties according to TRIPS.
- The draft amendments to the Customs Law contain provisions to comply with
Articles (51,58) of TRIPS.  In addition,  regulations will be issued regarding the
border enforcement to comply with TRIPS.
- Regarding patent protection for Pharmaceutical products at the time of WTO
accession, we would like to clarify that the new Patent Law gives protection for
patents in respect of pharmaceutical products in Articles 2/36 of the Law. But thetime to implement is still a matter of negotiations. Article 36 of the mentioned Law
gives the Cabinet authority to begin implementing these provisions. So protection is
provided but it will be implemented after the negotiations with the WTO about the
grace period. Article 36/E/2 provides: "The provisions of paragraphs(C) and (D) of
this Article shall come into force one month after the issuance of a decision to theeffect by Cabinet during a period which does not exceed three years from the date of
Jordan's accession to the World Trade Organization."
In establishing its new regime on intellectual property, Jordan took into account provisions of
the Geneva Phonograms Convention  to insure protec tion of all foreign works.  A decision, however,
has not been made to become a signatory of these two conventions.  The current priority of the
Government of Jordan is to accede to the WTO and fulfill WTO requirements.
VI. TRADE-RELATED SERVICES REGIME
1. GeneralWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 29
Question 60.  
We thank Jordan for the answers provided in WT/ACC/JOR/18, and for the  additional
information on the services regime in WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/4.   However, we still are not clear
on the procedures that a service supplier must  follow in order to establish a commercial
presence in Jordan.  Apart from equity limitations in certain sectors, does Jordan provide
automatic rights for commercial presence?  Or  is Ministry approval required, including for
sectors not subject to equity limitations?  Does Jordan guarantee the right to establish direct
investments - that is, not through Jordanian agents?
Answer:
Jordan has followed  the GATS scheduling guidel ines very carefully in drafting its service
commitment offers. (As indicated in GATS and MTN.GNS/w/164 and MTN.GNS/W/164/Add.1).
Accordingly, where existing measures (including  regulatory procedures) where found to involve
market access restrictions in  accordance with GATS:XVI, or national treatment qualifications, orinconsistencies with GATS:VI,  these have been explicitly indicated in Jordan Service Offers.
Otherwise, it may be assumed that no such restrictions apply.
Moreover, Jordan’s service offers are very ex plicit as to the forms of commercial presence
allowed. Where provision of service is restricted to Jordanian agents, this is clearly indicated.
Otherwise, it is to be assumed that no such restriction exists.
Question 61.  
In WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/4 and elsewhere, Jordan notes that it maintains minimum foreign
investment for all sectors (other than public limited companies) of JD 50,000.   Why does
Jordan feel that this is necessary?
In the answers to questions 154 and 155, Jordan provides information about plans to prepare
legislation to define the scope of current foreign equity restrictions applying to the construction,
trading and mining services.  While it is useful  that Jordan is considering such a step, it may
also wish to keep in mind the priorities ex pressed by WTO members in WTO bilateral market
access negotiations and modify legislation accordingly.
Answer:
The  JD 50,000 minimum capital requirement reflects Jordan’s concern to deter non serious
foreign investors.
In modifying necessary legislation to clearly define the scope of construction, trading, and mining
services, Jordan will keep in mind the priorities expressed by WTO members in WTO bilateral market
access negotiations
Question 62.  
In Table 1 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/4, Jordan includes reference for almost all-professional
services and some business services to Mode 4 restrictions in the form of nationality condition
although it would seem that foreign service supply through commercial presence is allowed.  In
contrast, in Table 3 of the same document, it is stated that many of these activities are reserved
for Jordanians although other Arab nations are allowed to participate based on trade
agreements.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 30
- What is the actual situation in the market?  Are Foreign Service suppliers from
non-Arab countries permitted to provide professional and business services
through Mode 3 commercial presence?  Cross-border?
Answer:
Jordan understands that an unqualified positive commitments in mode 3 (i.e none)  means that
there are no restrictions on provision of service through establishment, though not necessarily on theprovision of service through natural persons. (Note: in Jordan, sole proprietorship establishments do
not have a juridical entity status.)  Therefore, a none entry in mode 3 is not inconsistent with an
unbound or nationality restriction in mode 4. This distinction between the two modes may be slightly
blurred in certain professional service sectors, where there are regulatory requirements that the owners
of any professional establishment be licensed professionals. (e.g: Law firms, medical clinics). In such
cases, restrictions in mode 4, imply restrictions in mode 3. Otherwise, as indicated in
WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/5/Rev.1, Jordan grants right to establishment through mode 3 in many
professional services, but retains overall a reservation with regards to commitments in mode 4. (See
for example, engineering services)
Regarding the situation for Arab non-Jordanians, please note that
WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/5/Rev.1 has eliminated the reference to preferential treatment of Arab nationals
with regards to movement of natural persons.
Question 63.  
Please also address the question above in regard to the legal services sub-sector of foreign legal
consultancy specifically.
In WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/4, Jordan provides information on commission agents services but
neglects to cover other types of distribution services - wholesaling, retailing and franchising.
Please provide such information.
Answer:
In WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/Rev.1, Jordan indicated clearly its commitment to allow unrestricted
market access to provision of advisory services on foreign law in modes 1, 2, and 3.
In WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/Rev.1, Jordan indicated clearly that commission agent’s services,
wholesale trade, and retail trade are subject to  the same commitments in all modes of service
provision.
Question 64.  
In WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/4, Jordan includes inform ation on insurance services.  Does the
category of non-life insurance include marine, aviation and transport insurance?  If not, pleaseprovide the same information on that sub-sector.
Answer:
Yes.  The category of non-life insurance includes marine, aviation and transport insurance.
Such sectors, accordingly are subject to the loca lization requirement provided for in Jordanian
legislation, as stated in Jordan’s service offers.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 31
The Insurance Businesses Control Law No. 30 for the year 1984 divides insurance services to
the following types while stating that any related type not mentioned hereunder shall be considered
included within the relevant sector:
1. Life Insurance
2. Money gathering and saving insurance
3. Insurance against fire and emergency risks
4. Transportation risks insurance
5. Insurance against accidents
6. Other insurance.
It is worthy to note that marine and aviation insurance is considered to be covered in the
above Law, and specifically under the category of Transportation Insurance, be it air, sea or land.
Question 65.  
Regarding trade agreements, para. 19 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6 stating that the AFTA does not
include trade in services seems to conflict with the information in para.16 that the Arab
economic agreements contained some provisions on facilitating movement of workers.  Pleasereview the AFTA and provide information on whether and how it addresses all four modes of
supply of services.
Answer:
While the Agreement on Facilitating and Developing Commercial Exchange between Arab
States provides for the legal establishment of AFTA, the declaration of AFTA should be read inconjunction with the Agreement. This Agreement a ddresses, inter alia, liberalization of tariffs and
barriers in commercial exchange between Arab States.
Furthermore, the Agreement aims to provide special facilitation to services related to
commercial exchange between member states.
Therefore, the Agreement is mainly concerned with commercial exchange of goods in
commercial transactions between member states, and with facilitating or liberating services related to
commercial exchange. This is confirmed by the Social and Economic Council of the Arab League inits Decision No. (1317 d. c. 59) dated February 19
th, 1997 laying down the Executive Programme for
the Agreement to establish the Great Arab Free Trade Area. The main points of relevance in the
Executive Programme are:
 1. Liberating all Arab goods exchanged between member states in accordance with the
gradual liberating principal implemented as of January 1, 1998.
 2. Due to the relation of trade liberalization with several other economic activities,
members states shall consult regarding:
- Services and particularly those related to trade.
- Scientific research and technological cooperation.
- Coordinating commercial policies and legislation.
- Protection of intellectual property rights.
Therefore, the AFTA declaration includes an executive programme and a clear mechanism
regarding liberating trading in goods. However, the declaration postponed discussion of trading in
services and particularly that related to commercial exchange within AFTA.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 32
In any event, Article 18 of the Agreement refers to transport services where it states that
members shall cooperate in facilitating transportation between each other on preferential basis and
facilitating transit trade of Arab goods among member states.
Question 66.  
Regarding paragraph 21 of WT/ACC/SPEC/JOR/6, does the Jordan - EC Agreement contain
any provisions pertaining to trade in services?
Answer:
The EU Agreement refers the subject of servic es to commitments that Jordan will make as
results of Jordan's service negotiations for accession to  the WTO.
2. Policies Affecting Trade in Services
Question 67.  
We are still requesting further liberalisation in such sectors as legal services, construction,
environment, tourism and transportation servi ces. With regard to legal services, no foreign
lawyers are permitted to provide any kind of legal services; only Jordanian lawyers are
permitted to do so. Moreover, Jordanian nationality is required to actually become a lawyer in
Jordan. We therefore request the opening of Jo rdan’s market on legal services. Further
negotiations are expected on this issue after our an alysis of Jordan’s revised offer to be provided
shortly, as indicated in its opening statement.
Answer:
Jordan has submitted its revised offer on services in July 1999 and looks forward for bilateral
negotiations on services.
VII. INSTITUTIONAL BASE FOR TRADE AND ECONOMIC RELATIONS WITH
THIRD COUNTRIES
1. Bilateral or plurilateral agreements relating to foreign trade in goods and trade in
services
Question 68.  
The current situation to conclude and negotiate trade agreements with other countries (e.g. the
EC and Arab countries), including preferential treatment, should be informed to the Working
Party and described in the relevant sections of its Report. A high level of transparency should
be maintained by Jordan on trade agreements in relation to  Jordan’s obligations under the
relevant articles, such as Article XXIV of the GATT 1994 and Article V of the GATS.
Furthermore, Jordan should undertake commitments to observe these obligation on therelevant paragraph of the Working Party Report.  Jordan should notify in due courses all
regional trade agreements to the Committee on Regional Trade Agreements, and such
commitment to do so should be reflected in  the Working Party Report. Jordan should also
respect the WTO rules related to regional trade agreements.
Answer:WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 33
In previous communications, Jordan provided significant details on the EC Partnership
Agreement and its trade agreements with Arab countries including the Arab Free Trade Area (please
see WT/ACC/JOR18)
After accession, Jordan will notify according to WTO rules all regional trade agreements to
the Committee on Regional Trade Agreements.  Jordan commits to respect the WTO rules related to
regional trade agreements.WT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 34
ATTACHMENT A
TBT CONFORMITY CHART
Commitments (by the time of accession) WTO REFERENCE Draft Law on Standards & Metrology
Reference
1. Standstill: the introduction of new standards,
technical regulations and conformity assessmentprocedures should be fully compatible with the
TBT Agreement1. Generally agreed principal in WTO
accession negotiations1. All requirements of the TBT
Agreement are clearly set out in theLaw on Standards & Metrology.
2. Submission of Statement on Implementation 2. Article 15.2 and TBT Committee
Decision (G/TBT/1)2. Article 18.a.2
3. Establishment and operation of a single Contact
Point for Information (“inquiry point”)3. Article 10 3. Article 20
4. Identification of authority responsible for
notifications, publications and other internalprocedures to ensure transparency obligations
are met on an ongoing basis:
(A) identification of publication where notices of
proposed technical regulations and conformityassessment procedures will appear;
(B) identification of authority responsible for
making notifications to the WTO;
(C) guidance/law to ensure regulatory authorities
afford non-discriminatory consideration ofcomments in the preparation of a final
regulation;
(D) guidance/law to ensure regulatory authorities
allow a reasonable period of time between thefinal publication of a technical regulation and4. Articles 2, 3, 5, 7, 10, 15.2, Annex 3
and G/TBT/1
(A) Articles 2.9.1, 3.1, 5.6.1, 7.1, 10.1.5
(B) Article 2.9.2, 2.10.1, 3.2, 3.3, 5.6.2,
5.7.1, 7.2.7, 7.3, 10.7, 10.10
(C) Articles 2.9.4, 2.10.3, 3.1, 3.3, 5.6.4,
5.7.3, 7.1, 7.3
(D) Articles 2.11, 2.12, 3.1, 5.8, 5.9, 7.14. Articles 18, 20
(A) Article 18.a.1
(B)
(C) Article 18.a.2
(D) Article 18.bWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 35Commitments (by the time of accession) WTO REFERENCE Draft Law on Standards & Metrology
Reference
conformity assessment procedures and its entry
into force so that suppliers can adapt;
(E) publication and notification of work programme
for standards and non-governmental conformity
assessment procedures, including publication ofnotices of draft standards and an opportunity for
public comment.(E) Article 4, Annex 3 (J, K, L, N, O),
Article 8.1 (E) Implied in Article 11.10
5. Development and Application of Technical
Regulations and Conformity Assessment
Procedures: Existence of legal and/or
administrative underpinnings (or “reasonable
measures” as appropriate) to ensure ongoing
compliance with provisions of the agreement
concerning, in particular:
(A) non-discrimination with respect to the treatment
of products;
(B) the prohibition of unnecessary obstacles to
international trade and the consideration of less
trade-restrictive alternatives to fulfilling
legitimate objectives;
(C) the ongoing review of technical regulations to
ensure they are appropriate to achieve the
desired legitimate objective;
(D) the consideration of appropriate international
standards, guides and recommendations as a
basis for technical regulations and conformity5. Articles 2, 3, 5, 6, 7
(A) Articles 2.1, 3.1, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1
(B) Articles 2.2, 3.1, 5.1, 5.2, 7.1
(C) Article 2.3, 3.1, 7.1(D) Article 2.4, 3.1, 5.4, 7.15. Articles 11, 12, 13, 14, 15,
(A) Article 12.b, 13.a
(B) Article 11.6, 11.8, 12.a
(C) Article 11.8(D) Article 11.7, 12.aWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 36
Commitments (by the time of accession) WTO REFERENCE Draft Law on Standards & Metrology
Reference
assessment procedures;
(E) the consideration of equivalent technical
regulations of other Members;
(F) the acceptance of the results of conformity
assessment procedures conducted by bodies in
an exporting Member country;
(G) non-discriminatory and cost-based fee structure.(E) Article 2.7, 3.1, 7.1
(F) Article 6, 7.1
(G) Article 5.2, 7.1, 10.4(E) Article 11.9
(F) Article 12.c
(G) Article 21.c
6. Development and Application of Standards and
Conformity Assessment Procedures: Existence
of legal and/or administrative underpinnings (or
“reasonable measures” as appropriate) to ensure
ongoing compliance with provisions of theagreement concerning, in particular:
(A) non-discrimination with respect to the treatment
of products;
(B) the prohibition of unnecessary obstacles to
international trade;
(C) the consideration of appropriate international
standards, guides and recommendations as abasis for standards;
(D) non-discriminatory and cost-based fee structure6. Article 4 and Annex3, Article 8
(A) Annex 3 (D), Article 8.1
(B) Annex 3 (E), Article 8.1
(C) Annex 3 (F), Article 8.1
(D) Annex 3 (M), Annex 3 (P), Articles
8.1, 10.46. Articles 11&12
(A) Article 12.b
(B) Article 11.6, 12.a
(C) Article 11.7, 12.a
(D) Article 21.cWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 37ATTACHMENT B
ACTION PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTING TBT AGREEMENT
No. Goals and Activities Indicators Implementation period
Year 2000-2002 in 6 months period
121212
1 Time needed for checks on borders is decreased. Time is decreased by 30%
by end of year 2001 (basis
end of year 2000).--- --- --- --- Employment
of qualified
personnel atCustoms’
Centers
1.1 Samples are sent directly from Customs’ Centers to testing
labs.
1.2 Giving the samples from borders the priority to be tested by
the labs within the shortest possible time.
2 Certificates of conformity are accepted if issued by bodies
recognized / accredited by JISMInstructions on acceptance of
certificates of conformity areapproved by JISM’s Board
of Directors by end of year
2001.--- --- --- ---Training on
accreditationof
Certification
Bodies
2.1 Identify foreign Certification Bodies accredited in their
countries
2.2 Prepare a list of the Certification Bodies recognized by JISM
and distribute it to all Customs’ Centers and Chambers of
Commerce.
3 Raw materials for industry is not checked except for food
industryInstructions on permitting of
raw materials to be enteredwithout checks is approved
by JISM’s Board of
Directors by end of year
2000--- ---
3.1 Identify raw materials to be checked in a listWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 38
No. Goals and Activities Indicators Implementation period
Year 2000-2002 in 6 months period
121212
3.2 Distribute the list to all Customs’ Centers
4 Sampling is in compliance with inte rnational guides Procedures and work
instructions are implemented
by mid of year  2002--- --- --- --- ---- Training on
sampling
procedures
- Providing
samplingtools and
techniques
- A short
term expert
4.1 Issue procedures and work instructions on sampling
4.2 Train employees on sampling procedures
5 Overlapping in checks on borders is eliminated Time for checks is decreased
by another 10% by the endof year 2001 (basis end of
2000)--- --- --- ---
5.1 Define responsibilities of each inspection body
5.2 Increase coordination between them
6 Needed references and documents are acquired 10 documents on inspection
and sampling are acquired
by end of year 2000--- ---Funds
7 Computerization of checks on borders for retrieval of
information on non-complianceA computerized system is
working effectively by end
of year 2002--- --- --- --- --- ---Equipment
Software
Training ofpersonnelWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 39ACTION PLAN FOR IMPLEMENTING SPS AGREEMENT
Implementation Period
Years 2000-2002 in 6 month
periodsNeeds No Goals and Activities Indicators
21212
1 Adequate veterinary laboratory capacities build up
1.1 Enhance existing veterinary laboratories in Amman, Zarka,
Karak, Mafraq, Maan, Irbid and Balqa.Main reference laboratory in
Amman enhanced by 2002--- --- --- --- --- Equipment
1.2 Establish new laboratories in Aqaba and Ramtha --- --- --- --- Physical structures,
equipment
2 Feed analysis laboratory capacity adequate
2.1 Modernize feed laboratory in Amman Laboratory in Amman
functional by 2002--- --- ---
2.2 Build up new facility in Aqaba and Mafraq --- --- --- Physical structures,
equipment
3 Fumigation facilities fully operational
3.1 Modernize existing facilities in Amman, Jaber and Ramtha Facilities operational by 2002 --- --- ---
3.2 Build up facility in Aqaba --- --- ---
4 Modernize quarantine laboratories
4.1 Enhance pesticide residue, pesticide analysis and toxin
laboratory facilities--- --- --- ---
4.2 Establish new quarantine stations --- --- --- --- ---
4.3 Enhance existing quarantine posts --- --- ---
5 Implement support measuresWT/ACC/JOR/22
Page 40
Implementation Period
Years 2000-2002 in 6 month
periodsNeeds No Goals and Activities Indicators
21212
5.1 Train staff 100 PM staff trained by 2002, --- --- --- --- --- External Trainers
5.2 Promote privatization --- --- --- --- External Expertise
5.3 Establish and adopt adequate standards Standards established for feed
by 2002--- --- --- ---
5.4 Draft new SPS articles within the agricultural law All related regulations drafted
by 2001---
__________