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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
*In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
JORDAN  
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 27 AND 29  SEPTEMBER  2023 
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later than  
23 October  2023. 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
JORDANIE  
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 27 ET 29  SEPTEMBRE  2023 
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 23 octobre  2023 au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
JORDANIA  
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 27 Y 29 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 2023  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría ( Daniela  Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , 
o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el 23 de octubre  de 2023 las correcciones fácticas que deseen 
introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
JORDAN  
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E. Mr Saqer Abdullah Almoqbel (Kingdom of Saudi Arabia)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN  ................................ ...... 5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ................  8 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  12 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  .........  36 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  41 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Jordan are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/446/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The third Trade Policy Review of Jordan  was held on 27 and 29  September  2023. 
The Chairperson, H.E. Mr Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel  (Kingdom  of Saudi  Arabia) welcomed the 
delegation of Jordan , headed by H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade, 
and Supply, and Minister of Labour ; H.E.  Ambassador Walid  Obeidat , Permanent Representative of 
Jordan  to the WTO; the re st of the delegation; and the discussant, H.E. Dr Omar  Zniber  (Morocco).  
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benefited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Members hip. 
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the main elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The Report by  Jordan  is contained in document WT/TPR/G/ 446, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/ 446. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegati ons were submitted in writing before the deadline: Iceland, 
Singapore, Canada, Chinese  Taipei, Japan, European  Union, Argentina, United  Kingdom, 
United  States, China, Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia, Dominican  Republic, and Brazil.  The following 
delegations submit ted written questions after the deadline: Türkiye . 
1.5.  The Chairperson first  recall ed some elements of the Jordan's previous Review and 
developments since then, as well as  identif ied some key issues arising from the advance written 
questions submitted by Membe rs for this TPR.  
1.6.  During the previous TPRB meeting in November  2015, Members praised Jordan for the 
resilience of its economy, which posted positive economic growth despite facing severe adverse 
circumstances, notably the global economic crisis and regiona l conflicts. They commended Jordan 
on its planning for future growth as set out in its 2025 National Vision and Strategy. It was noted 
that implementation of the Vision would help stimulate economic growth and social inclusiveness, 
including women economic  empowerment. Members also welcomed various steps undertaken by 
Jordan to reduce the cost of doing business and facilitate foreign participation in the economy, with 
a view to attracting foreign investment.  
1.7.  At the time of the previous Review, Members were appreciative of Jordan positive economic 
outcomes and numerous reforms, they also sought additional information on minimum capital 
requirements, equity ownership, and foreign investment in certain service sectors, such as wholesale 
and retail trade. Jordan  was also encouraged to ratify the Trade Facilitation Agreement, and to 
further strengthen the enforcement of intellectual property rights.  
1.8.  The Chairperson  focused on developments since Jordan's last Review. During the period under 
Review 2016 -22, real GDP growth averaged 1.6% per year despite having, in 2020, its first economic 
contraction since 2009. This contraction was largely due to the pandemic which significantly 
disrupted most economic activities, notably exports and tourism.  
1.9.  Jordan is implem enting its Economic Priorities Programme  and Economic Modernization Vision  
which attach a significant importance to environmental sustainability. They also consider women 
empowerment and promoting further participation of the private sector in the economy as a favoured 
way to stimulate inclusive growth, broaden Jordan's economic base, and expanding into high 
value -added service and industrial sectors.  
1.10.  Both the Secretariat and Government reports indicate that Jordan is also implementing a 
major tariff reform . As a result of continuous efforts to simplify the tariff structure, the simple 
average applied MFN tariff rate decreased from 10.2% in 2015 to 4% in 2023. Moreover, Jordan 
ratified the TFA in 2017 and amended its Customs Code in 2018 according to the TFA  provisions. 
Almost all TFA provisions have been implemented.  
1.11.  During the review period, Jordan made significant changes to its investment regime t o 
promote larger FDI and reduce red tape/cost of doing business. The new Ministry of Investment was 
created in  2021 and a new Investment Environment Law entered into force in 2022. Jordan has 
taken significant steps to boost its digital economy and is implementing an export strategy. 
The Chairperson was sure of the Members interest  to know more about these changes . WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  1.12.  In the Report  prepared by the Government , Jordan identified areas where technical assistance 
is needed from the WTO Secretariat to support its trade -related capacity and development efforts.  
1.13.  As highlighted in the advanced written questions, several trade  and related measures were of 
great interest to Members, in particular, the new Investment Environment Law and the incentives 
scheme associated with the new law. Members showed  also interested in the support efforts for 
small  and medium -sized enterprises, and how to encourage SMEs to participate more into the global 
value chains. State trading enterprises (STEs) and the measures related to importing barley and 
wheats also drew Members' attention. Other areas of Members' interest included customs procedures 
as well as the new government procurement regime.  
1.14.  In total, Jordan received around 140 advance written questions from 14  delegations for th e 
current  Review, out of which 132 questions from 13 delegations were sent within the established 
deadline. Prior to  the meeting, Jordan already provided written replies to all Members that submitted 
questions.  
1.15.  The meeting w as a good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading sys tem. The Chairperson looked 
forward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.16.  The Chairperson closed his introductory remarks by wishing Jordan  a very successful third 
Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN 
(H.E. MR YOUSEF  MAHMOUD  AL-SHAMALI ) 
2.1.  I am very pleased to represent the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in its third  Trade Policy 
Review. On behalf of the Jordanian delegation, I extend sincerest appreciation to the Permanent 
Representative of the Kingdom  of Saudi  Arabia, H.E. Ambassador  Saqer  Almoqbel for his 
chairmanship, kind words of welcome and overview of issues.  
2.2.  Our appreciation is also extended to the Permanent Representative of Morocco, 
H.E Ambassador Omar  Zniber, whom we are honoured to have as discussant, and through whom 
we present our sincerest condolences to the people of Morocco over the devastating earthquake 
earlier this month. We look forward to listening to your insightful thoughts on Jordan's economic and 
trade policies.  
2.3.  Allow me also to express our deepest gratitude t o the WTO Secretariat, especially 
Mr Angelo  Silvy, Officer in Charge of the Trade Policy Review Division and his team, for the 
outstanding efforts exerted in preparing a comprehensive Report and the support presented during 
this exercise period.  
2.4.  I am also honoured and pleased for having your Excellencies and distinguished delegates with 
us today, whether in person or virtually.  
2.5.  Jordan views the Trade Policy Review for what it is: An effective mechanism for ensuring 
transparency of trade policies and practi ces of the WTO Members; and as a long -standing  Member, 
we reiterate our commitment to this major principle of the WTO.  
2.6.  For this review, we received more than 140  questions and we are pleased to have been able 
to answer almost all. We seek to be engaged wi th you in a constructive exchange of views on all 
aspects of Jordan's economic and trade policy.  
2.7.  Many observers will agree that Jordan has maintained its resilience and continued its support 
and commitment to the market economy and the multilateral trading  system despite the challenges 
and crises met in the past two decades.  
2.8.  The consecutive waves of Syrian refugees' influx to the Kingdom since 2011 and the closure of 
Jordanian -Syrian boarders in 2015 due to security concerns made enormous pressures on our 
resources, trade and economy.  
2.9.  We continue to shoulder the burden of hosting over 1.3  million Syrian refugees, a burden most 
countries are exempted from.  
2.10.  More was to come with the implications of the COVID -19 pandemic and the war in Ukraine on 
supply chains and trade flow.  Domestic impacts did not weaken our commitment to contribute to 
addressing regional and global challenges.  We contributed to the global fight against the pandemic 
by exporting masks, medical bibs and labels.  
2.11.  We also took new measures  to enhance our role in global efforts to address climate change 
such as ratifying the Paris  Agreement and meeting the greenhouse gas emissions reduction target.  
2.12.  During the review period, Jordan continued its economic reform efforts, as acknowledged by 
international institutions. According to the World  Bank ranking,  Jordan was among the top 10  global 
improvers and a top business climate reformer in the MENA region in 2020.  
2.13.  Fitch Ratings revised the outlook for Jordan's credit rating the country with a "stable" outlook, 
signalling recognition of the Kingdom's considerable advancements in consolidating its financial 
position and fostering economic recovery in the aftermath of the pandemic.  
2.14.   While Jordan's economic performance in the period following the last T rade Policy Review 
featured ups and downs, this year started with an economic growth of 2.8% in the first quarter.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  2.15.  Sectors such as tourism and exports grew substantially in 2022, helping to reduce current 
account deficit. Overall fiscal deficit was reduce d to 4.6% of GDP.  
2.16.  Despite the high inflation rates recorded globally and regionally, Jordan maintained a 
relatively low inflation rate compared to other countries. The inflation rate averaged 1.9% between 
2016 and 2022, going down to 1.17% in the first hal f of this year. The aggregate volume of foreign 
direct investments in Jordan made a growth rate of over  82%, an impressive rate compared to the 
levels achieved during the pandemic period and the preceding year.  
2.17.  Despite these positive developments in the ec onomy, the "chronic " problems I described 
persist and continue to produce challenges.  
2.18.   In response, Jordan, under the patronage of His Majesty King Abdullah  II, and with the 
participation of more than 500 experts from the private and public sectors, Parlia ment, academia, 
media and development partners, developed a comprehensive strategy for sustainable and inclusive 
economic development.  
2.19.  This is the Economic Modernization Vision that has two core pillars: accelerating economic 
growth and improving quality o f life while prioritizing sustainability.  
2.20.  Jordan perceived that attracting and facilitating investments is key for the success of the 
Vision. The new investment law, adopted in 2022, creates more favourable environment for investors 
by streamlining the pr ocess of setting up and running businesses, and promotes transparency and 
predictability in the investment process.  
2.21.  The law provides equal treatment of domestic and foreign investors, freedom of capital 
movement, guarantees and incentives for investments that contribute to economic growth, job 
creation, knowledge and technology transfer. The law also emphasizes the digitalization and 
automation of processes and services as to remove administrative and procedural barriers and 
encourage investment in strateg ic projects, innovation, and research.  
2.22.  In addition, the Vision gives special attention to free trade orientation of Jordan's economy. 
We therefore launched the "National Export Strategy", which is designed in close collaboration with 
the private sector, to  diversify the product portfolio, trade facilitation and support sustainability of 
exporting companies.  
2.23.  Realizing that more effective and wider penetration of international markets requires an 
empowered private sector capable of leading production and mark eting processes meeting the needs 
of target markets, another tool of the Vision, the Industrial Support and Development Fund, was 
launched earlier this year that aligned with our international commitments, to support industrial 
business with the costs of t hese processes.  
2.24.  The Vision is also one of the several initiatives that emphasize women empowerment for a 
better integration in economic life. In 2023, the amended Labour Law featured several provisions to 
empower women and enhance their participation in t he workforce through many aspects such as 
equal pay, establishment of childcare cent ers, flexible work environment, and strictly prohibited 
gender -based discrimination among workers.  
2.25.  Our economic growth is sought after not only through domestic initiatives  but also via 
enhanced regional and international cooperation such as the trilateral cooperation with Iraq and 
Egypt, the Industrial Partnership for Sustainable Economic Growth along with the UAE, Egypt and 
the Kingdom  of Bahrain  launched last year, the up coming Joint Jordanian -Iraqi Economic Boarder 
City and the various free trade agreement and protocols with many countries around the world.  
2.26.  Jordan's WTO membership and the multilateral trading system played a key role in shaping 
our trade policies, fosteri ng transparency, and facilitating integration into the global economy.  
2.27.  The Kingdom remains a strong supporter of the multilateral trading system as embodied in 
the WTO.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  2.28.  We believe that we all can deliver based on strengthening of a free and fair global tra de, while 
prioritizing facilitation and support to the participation of developing Member countries in 
negotiations on the WTO reform to further enhance market access opportunities in goods and 
services for all WTO Members.  
2.29.   Jordan also continues adherence  to the principles of WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement. The 
national trade window begun its full operation in March  2018 to facilitate and automate the trade 
exchange procedures. This reform was supported by the major amendments introduced to the 
Customs L aw in 2019, to emphasize the acceptance of electronic documents such as cargo manifests 
and commercial documents attached to customs declarations.  
2.30.  Jordan Customs launched the Jordan Trade Facilitation Portal to provide traders with access 
to a repository a nd procedures for more than 70  products to improve compliance, reduce transaction 
delays, and align with WTO TFA measures. Customs tariffs were restructured, as of 13  January  2022, 
to include 4 categories instead of 16, which will eliminate tariff distorti ons, boost trade, and enhance 
efficiency.  
2.31.  Jordan, as one of the "net food importer developing countries ", stresses the priority of food 
security, supports the calls for additional flexibilities within the agriculture negotiations and removing 
all barriers  to trade in basic goods.  
2.32.  Jordan initiated the procedures to ratify the Fisheries Support Agreement, a significant 
achievement arising from the Twelfth Ministerial Conference. Currently, Jordan is in the process of 
taking the necessary legislative steps re quired for the ratification of this agreement.  
2.33.  As part of its advocacy for women economic empowerment and adoption of an inclusive 
economic development, Jordan joined the Declaration on Trade and Women's Economic 
Empowerment. Further, the recently amended  Companies Law stipulates a percentage for women 
representation on corporate boards. These innovations highlight the country's belief in reaffirming 
the potential of businesswomen and entrepreneurs and the economic value -added they can bring to 
the global economy in addition to the reforms implemented in the country.  
2.34.  Jordan started implementation of the Government Procurement By -law of 2022 and its 
amendments, which harmonizes procurement procedures, introduces the Jordanian electronic 
procurement system, strengthens decentralization, and promotes transparency and integrity in 
government procurement  . 
2.35.  In line with the WTO negotiations on trade  related aspects of electronic commerce, the Council 
of Ministers approved the Jordan National E -Commerce Strategy 2023 -25, which aims to create an 
enabling environment for e -commerce, attract investments and businesses, and offer better income 
opportunities in the sector.  
2.36.  The Kingdom expresses its commitments and support to the outcomes of the 
Twelf th Ministerial Conference and its consensus -based decision -making mechanism. We are looking 
forward to a successful MC13 in the UAE next February with optimism. We are strongly committed 
to support and work, in cooperation with all WTO Members, to keep up the political momentum and 
to have concrete and milestone outcomes to be implemented by Members following MC13.  
2.37.  In conclusion, I would like to take this opportunity to thank the WTO Members for their 
acknowledgement and appreciation of the challenges Jordan is facing.  
2.38.  We are particularly thankful to Members who supported Jordan in times of crises and those 
recogniz ing the advancements and efforts Jordan made to implement rule s-based trade system and 
keep our economy open and our trade free and fair.  
2.39.  Finally, we acknowledge that there is always room for improvement, and I assure you that 
we will give a very careful c onsideration to all your comments. We also welcome any additional 
queries that may arise during today's meeting.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  Je voudrais commencer par souhaiter chaleureusement la bienvenue à la délégation de la 
Jordanie dirigée par S.E.  M. le Ministre Youssef  Al-Shamali, et son équipe, et salué mon frère 
l'Ambassadeur du Royaume d'Arabie  saoudite, Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel, Président de l'Organe 
d'examen des politiques commerciales.  
3.2.  C'est un honneur pour moi de participer en tant que prése ntateur du troisième examen de la 
politique commerciale de la Jordanie, exercice témoignant l'attachement de ce pays au système 
commercial multilatéral et à ce processus fondamental de l'OMC, par lequel cette Organisation 
contribue à la promotion d'un comm erce international équitable, transparent et ouvert.  
3.3.  Les examens de politiques commerciales ne pourraient avoir lieu sans le travail approfondi des 
délégations et du Secrétariat. A cet égard, Je tiens à remercier la Jordanie et le Secrétariat de leurs 
rapports pertinents qui ont permis aux Membres d'avoir une vision globale sur les politiques 
commerciales et économiques de la Jordanie et ont fourni une excellente base pour notre réunion.  
3.4.  Je voudrais rappeler que, conformément au règlement intérieur des exa mens de l'OMC, mes 
remarques sont faites à titre personnel.  
Un contexte de crise à l 'international  
3.5.  Il convient de souligner que ce 3ème examen de la politique commerciale de la Jordanie, 
couvrant la période 2016 -2022, intervient à un moment très difficile pour la plupart des économies.  
3.6.  La crise sanitaire qui a engendré une crise économique a mis à nu l'interdépendance des 
économies démontrant la fragilité des chaines d'approvisionnement et des circuits commerciaux à 
l'international.  
3.7.  La crise énergétique qu i découle de la situation en Ukraine, est venue s'additionner à un 
contexte économique mondial déjà perturbé, levant le voile sur la dépendance de plusieurs pays 
pour leur approvisionnement en énergie et en denrées alimentaires (blé, engrais) créant des te nsions 
inflationnistes sans précédent.  
3.8.  Ajoutant à cela l'instabilité politique ainsi que les différents conflits que connait la région du 
Moyen -Orient, et qui impactent négativement son intégration économique et par conséquent 
impliquent des répercussions négatives sur l'évolution de la croissance économique, sécurité 
alimentaire et constituent des entraves pour le commerce au niveau régional.  
Bref aperçu sur la Jordanie/OMC  
3.9.  De par sa situation géographique la Jordanie demeure un carrefour commercial et cu lturel au 
cœur du Moyen -Orient et avec un riche patrimoine culturel et archéologique qui en font un point 
d'ancrage pour la stabilité régionale.  
3.10.  La Jordanie est un Membre actif de l'OMC, prend part régulièrement aux activités de l'OMC et 
ce depuis son adhé sion en 2000. Elle plaide, également, pour l'adhésion d'autre pays arabes à notre 
Organisation.  
3.11.  Il s'agit d'un pays qui dispose d'un vaste éventail d'accords commerciaux que ce soit au niveau 
bilatéral, régional et international en vue de renforcer son po sitionnement régional, conquérir de 
nouvelles parts de marchés et d'attirer des investissements étrangers.  
3.12.  La Jordanie a conclu des accords de libre -échange (ALE) avec diverses économies, notamment 
les États -Unis, l'Union  européenne, le Canada, Singapour et le Royaume -Uni.  
3.13.  La Jordanie fait partie, également, des signataires de l'accord d'Agadir avec le Maroc, l'Egypte, 
la Tunisie, un prélude à la future zone méditerranéenne de libre -échange.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  3.14.  Elle est également membre de l'Union pour la méditerr anée (UpM), ce qui témoigne de sa 
volonté de promouvoir la coopération et le dialogue entre les rives sud et nord de la mer 
Méditerranée.  
3.15.  Durant la période 2016 -2022, La Jordanie comptait sept accords commerciaux régionaux 
(ACR) en vigueur avec 52  économie s.  
3.16.  Pour revenir à notre exercice, mon intervention se focalisera sur trois axes  majeurs:  
1) D'abord, je commencerai  mon intervention par évoquer les principales caractéristiques de 
l'économie jordanienne, notamment à travers les principaux indices et indicat eurs 
macroéconomiques.  
2) Ensuite, j'aborderai certaines évolutions et réformes  majeurs survenus en Jordanie depuis 
le 2ème examen de sa politique commerciale, et ce, en me référant aux rapports du 
gouvernement et du Secrétariat.  
3) Enfin, je terminerai par mettre en évidence quelques questions clés qui ont été soulevées 
par d'autres Membres dans le cadre de l'examen de cette ann ée. 
L'économie jordanienne  
3.17.  Malgré l'impact de la pandémie du COVID -19, la Jordanie a fait preuve d'une résilience 
particulière en vue de surmonter les effets négatifs de la pandémie sur la société, le commerce et 
l'économie de manière générale.  
3.18.  Il s'agit d'une économie émergente, ouverte au commerce extérieur avec un PIB de 
48 milliards  d'USD, soit l'équivalent de 4  670 USD par habitant.  
3.19.  Le secteur des services représente les 2/3 du PIB. Le secteur secondaire, environ le 1/4 du  PIB 
(qui repose principalem ent sur l'industrie textile, pharmaceutique et minière). Tandis que le secteur 
primaire ne représente que 6% du PIB jordanien.  
3.20.  Le pays dépend de l'importation pour une grande partie de ses besoins et son économie 
budgétaire est fragilisée par un endetteme nt important.  
3.21.  La Jordanie a fait preuve de résilience au cours de l'année 2022, enregistrant une croissance 
de 2,5%, portée principalement par un secteur touristique en forte progression. Celui -ci compte 
pour 20% du PIB et les revenus liés au tourisme ont  atteint 5,8  milliards  d'USD en 2022, en 
augmentation de 110,5% par rapport à 2021.  
3.22.  Les Institutions de Bretton  Woods ainsi que les partenaires économiques de la Jordanie 
continuent de soutenir le pays et contribuent ainsi au maintien de sa stabilité. L'a ide financière 
internationale a atteint près de 2,5  milliards  d'USD en 2022.  
3.23.  Cette dynamique de croissance devrait continuer pour 2023 selon les prévisions du FMI pour 
atteindre un taux de croissance de 2,7%.  
3.24.  Il sied de souligner que durant la période 2016 -2019, la croissance réelle du PIB fut de 2,1% 
en moyenne et diminué de 1,6% en 2020 eu égard aux répercussions de la pandémie du COVID -19 
sur l'économie jordanienne marquant ainsi sa première contraction économique depuis 30  ans.  
3.25.  Les réalisations de l'éc onomie jordanienne de l'année 2022 sont dues à sa politique budgétaire 
et monétaire, au regard de l'indexation dollar/euro, soutenue par des réserves internationales 
adéquates, ce qui a représenté un point d'ancrage efficace pour sa stabilité macroéconomiq ue.  
3.26.  Durant la période 2016 et 2022, l'inflation a atteint en moyenne 1,9%, bien qu'elle soit hissée 
à 4,2% en 2022 sous l'effet de la hausse des prix du brut et des produits alimentaires.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  3.27.  A la fin de la période concernée, le solde courant de la balance des paiements de la Jordanie 
a atteint -8,8% en 2022. Toutefois, le FMI estime que ce déficit devrait s'améliorer en 2023 pour 
atteindre -7,5% du PIB.  
3.28.  Le taux de chômage en 2022 a connu une légère amélioration par rapport à 2021 en passant 
de 24,1%  à 22,8% (le chômage affecte en particulier les jeunes et les femmes).  
3.29.  Ce taux de chômage élevé est corrélé en partie au nombre d'habitants qui s'est vu doublé au 
cours des dernières décennies en passant de 5 à 11 millions d'habitants (principalement en ra ison 
de l'accueil massif de réfugiés), accentuant la pression sur des ressources naturelles limitées.  
3.30.  La Jordanie est, également, confrontée comme plusieurs pays aux risques climatiques, 
notamment l'augmentation des températures, la diminution des précipi tations et l'augmentation des 
sécheresses.  
3.31.  Le déficit budgétaire a connu une légère baisse en 2022 -5,9% (dons inclus) et devrait baisser 
davantage en 2023 pour atteindre -5,1% (dons inclus) du PIB dons inclus en 2023 . La dégradation 
du solde budgétaire a u regard de l'augmentation des dépenses publiques a affecté la dette publique 
qui devrait atteindre 113,8% du PIB en 2023.  
3.32.  Durant la période 2016 -2022, le Royaume Hachémite a continué à attirer les investisseurs 
étrangers, un pic d'IDEs en 2017 à hauteur d e 2,03  milliards  d'USD contre 1,14  milliards  d'USD 
en 2022.  
3.33.  Toutefois, si les investisseurs étrangers et nationaux sont traités sur un pied d'égalité en 
général, des différences subsistent sous la forme de restrictions à la propriété foncière, d'exigences 
minimales de fonds propres, de restrictions à la participation étrangère dans certains secteurs et de 
prohibitions à l'investissement étranger dans plusieurs domaines.  
Réformes économiques et politiques  
3.34.  S'agissant du deuxième axe de mon intervention, force  est de constater que lors de la période 
concernée, la Jordanie a mené des politiques de réforme et d'ouverture économiques qui lui a permis 
de mobiliser plus efficacement ses ressources internes des réformes importantes dont l'objectif est 
de consolider s a balance commerciale et améliorer son climat d'affaires laissant présager de bonnes 
perspectives économiques pour le pays.  
3.35.  Il y a lieu de féliciter la Jordanie pour ces réformes qui contribueraient également à faciliter 
son intégration dans l'économie mo ndiale, renforcer sa compétitivité et son positionnement sur 
l'échiquier international.  
3.36.  Parmi ces mesures, figurent notamment: i)  la mise en place d'une réforme douanière pour la 
période 2022 -2028 ; ii) La modernisation du cadre des marchés publics avec l' entrée en vigueur du 
règlement n°  8 de 2022 sur les marchés publics; iii)  la réforme du système d'imposition et 
d'incitation afin de réduire la charge fiscale et de stimuler l'économie  et (iv)  l'entrée en vigueur de 
la nouvelle Loi n°  21 de 2022 sur le cli mat de l'investissement.  
3.37.  Il y a lieu, également, de mettre en relief: i)  la vision de modernisation économique de la 
Jordanie à l'horizon 2030 visant à renforcer la croissance et la qualité de vie en créant 
1 million  d'emplois et en améliorant la position du pays dans les indices mondiaux, ii)  la stratégie 
nationale de développement agricole 2020 -2025 ; iii) la Stratégie nationale relative à l'eau pour 
2023-2040 ; (iv) la stratégie énergétique 2020 -2030.  
Questions abordées par les Membres de l 'OMC 
3.38.  En se réf érant aux questions qui ont suscité un intérêt de la part des Membres de cette 
Organisation au sujet de l'EPC Jordanie, permettez -moi de résumer succinctement ce qui suit:  
3.39.  La Jordanie a reçu une centaine de questions qui selon, moi, reflète l'intérêt des Membres 
pour ses politiques économiques et commerciales et les réalisations accomplis au cours de la période 
concernée.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  3.40.  Ces questions portent généralement sur:  
• les politiqu es économiques, commerciales et budgétaires;  
• la mise en œuvre de la politique relative à l'égalité des genres;  
• les procédures douanières  et la vision pour la modernisation économique de la Jordanie à 
l'horizon 2030;  
• la mise en œuvre de la politique pour le changement climatique (2022 -2050);  
• l'état de la ratification de l'Accord sur les subventions à la pêche;  
• les notifications à l'OMC, les restrictions et les licences pour l'importation de certains 
produits;  
• les entreprises étatiques, les marchés publics  et les droits de propriété intellectuelle;  
• négociations  sur des traités d'investissement bilatéraux; exclusion et limitation des 
étrangers;  
• les mesures sanitaires et phytosanitaires (SPS).  
3.41.  Bien que toutes ces questions me paraissent import antes, je n'irai pas au -delà puisqu'elles 
seront exposées en détails par les Membres concernés.  
3.42.  Pour conclure, je félicite la Jordanie pour les contributions qu'elle a apportées à l'OMC et au 
système commercial multilatéral depuis son adhésion en 2000, ain si que pour les importants progrès 
et avancées réalisés à l'échelle nationale. Je souhaite à la délégation jordanienne un examen réussi 
et fructueux.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
ICELAND  
4.1.  Before addressing the Trade Policy Review of Jordan, let me extend our sin cere condolences to 
Morocco following the devastating earthquake earlier this month.  
4.2.  Iceland warmly welcomes the distinguished delegation of Jordan, led by H.E.  Minister 
Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, to the third Trade Policy Review. We also express apprecia tion to the 
WTO Secretariat, as well as Jordan, for the reports prepared, as well as to the discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Omar  Zniber, for the excellent framing of the issues for our discussion today.  
4.3.  On the outset, let me express Iceland's appreciation for Jordan's active participation and strong 
commitment to the smooth functioning of the multilateral trading system. Jordan's economy has 
weathered many outside challenges, as we have heard, and as for many of the Members, the 
COVID -19 pandemic is one of thos e challenges that has negatively affected the economy, where the 
main economic activities impacted have been export and tourism.  
4.4.  It is widely recogni zed that the economic and trade impacts of the pandemic and ongoing 
geopolitical conflicts have had a dispr oportionately adverse impact on women. This is important to 
keep in mind in the current global environment. At MC12, Ministers acknowledged for the first time 
the importance of addressing women's economic empowerment at the WTO, and by doing so, 
recogni zed the positive benefits that it will have on our economies. Iceland commends Jordan for 
acknowledging this fact and welcomes actions taking to advance women's empowerment as laid out 
in the Executive Plan for the National Strategy for Women in Jordan for th e period 2023 -2025. 
We wish Jordan all the success in implementing this broad -based strategy. This is not only the right 
thing to do, but also the smart thing to do.  
4.5.  Iceland welcomes Jordan's participation in the informal working group on trade and gender,  
where an important element of our work is the sharing of best practices and experiences relating to 
policies and rulemaking on advancing women's economic empowerment. In the spirit of supporting 
relevant data gathering in this field, Iceland has submitted  in advance written questions on the 
participation of women in the economy of Jordan.  We welcome the replies, as the answers will be 
useful in gathering best practices in the promotion of gender equality within trade.  
4.6.  Finally, Iceland once again appreciate s Jordan's firm support to the multilateral trading system 
and its active engagement in the WTO. We wish the delegation of Jordan every success for this Trade 
Policy Review.  
SINGAPORE  
4.7.  Let me begin by extending a very warm welcome to Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, 
and Minister of Labour , Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, and the delegation from Jordan. I would 
also like to express our appreciation to Jordan for the comprehensive Government Report and 
statement and thank the Chair, Ambassador Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel, and the discussant, 
Ambassador Omar  Zniber, for their insightful statements and the Secretariat for its detailed Report. 
Allow me also to convey our heartfelt condolences to Ambassador Omar  Zniber for the devastating 
earthquake in Morocco.  
4.8.  Allow me to make three points. First, Singapore and Jordan enjoy long -standing and strong 
political and economic relations.  In fact, Jordan was one of four countries that co -sponsored 
Singapore's application to join the United  Nations in 1965. Since then, relations have broadened and 
deepened, especially since both Singapore and Jordan are small countries with limited natural 
resources. Our economic ties are anchored by the Singapore -Jordan Free Trade Agreement that was 
signed close to 20  years ago in  2004. It was a significant milestone as this marked the first FTA 
between Singapore and a country from the Middle East. Together with the Bilateral Investment 
Treaty, the FTA has enabled bilateral trade to grow to USD  134 million in 2022 and trade in services 
expanded by 122% year -on-year to USD  141.5  million. There are also growing commercial 
opportunities in Jordan, especially in the fast -growing ICT sector . We are encouraged by Jordan's 
efforts to accelerate domestic digita l transformation and build an inclusive digital economy through 
initiatives such as its National E -Commerce Strategy 2023 -2025. Singapore has similarly developed WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  a Digital Economy Framework for Action to support our businesses and organisations in embracin g 
digital transformation and leveraging emerging technologies for growth. Given this convergence of 
interests, we look forward to strengthening our collaboration to leverage the digital economy.  
4.9.  Second, Singapore commends Jordan 's efforts to restructure i ts economy and attract foreign 
investments. The establishment of a Ministry of Investment and the adoption of a new "Investment 
Environment Law " to regulate, supervise and manage the development of free zones across Jordan 
will encourage greater foreign in vestments and boost commercial activity. These initiatives have 
helped Jordan 's economy rebound from the COVID -19 pandemic, with GDP growth of 2.2% in 2021. 
In addition, the aggregate volume of foreign direct investments in Jordan recorded an impressive 
growth rate of over 82% post -pandemic. Nonetheless, there is room for improvement. As the WTO 
Secretariat has noted in its Report, foreign investment remains prohibited in certain sectors while 
others such as air transport and other services are subjected to  equity restrictions. We encourage 
Jordan to consider further liberali zing investments in these sectors to further reali ze its full potential 
as an FDI destination.  
4.10.  Third, Singapore appreciates Jordan 's active role at the WTO, particularly as coordinator for 
the Asian  Group of Developing Countries (AGDC).  Jordan is also a Member of both the Information 
Technology Agreement and Trade Facilitation Agreement , which reflects its commitment to the 
multilateral trading system. We would also like to commend Jordan for launching its Trade 
Facilitation Portal  which provides traders with access to information and procedures concerning the 
import, export , and transit  of over 70  products, thereby improving compliance and reducing 
transaction costs for traders. Going forward, we encourage Jordan to consider joining the ITA  II, as 
well as the various Joint Statement Initiatives. Given Jordan 's interest in growing the dig ital 
economy, we strongly encourage Jordan to join the Joint Statement Initiative on E -Commerce, in 
order to harness the growth potential offered by digital transformation.   
4.11.  In closing, Singapore will continue to work closely with Jordan to support the mu ltilateral 
trading system as embodied by the WTO. Finally, I must acknowledge the contributions that my 
good friend Ambassador Walid  Obeidat as well as his team at the Jordan Mission in Geneva have 
made at the WTO and as Coordinator for the AGDC. We wish J ordan a very successful third Trade 
Policy Review.  
CANADA  
4.12.  I would like to begin by extending a warm welcome to the delegation from Jordan, led by 
Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply, and Minister of Labour, on 
the occasion  of its third  Trade Policy Review. Thanks to the Secretariat for your very well -researched 
Report, and to my dear friend H.E.  Ambassador  Omar  Zniber for your insightful comments as 
discussant.  
4.13.  I want to join others in extending Canada's sincere condolences  to Morocco for the devastating 
impacts that the country is facing following the earthquakes. Canada was very pleased at least to 
be able to provide some humanitarian assistance as part of the response, both at the federal level 
and by, of course the provi nce of Quebec, giving our linguistical ties.  
4.14.  Now turning to the Trade Policy Review, l et me first begin by congratulating Jordan on its 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic despite the economic contraction experienced 
in 2020 due to significant dis ruptions to economic activities, exports , and tourism. Notably, we 
congratulate Jordan on its growth in tourism, which surpassed pre -pandemic levels in 2022.   
4.15.  Canada and Jordan share a deep and enduring partnership. Canada was very pleased to host 
a visit of King  Abdullah  II in January  2023 to advance cooperation and to discuss how best to 
advance the Canada -Jordan commercial relationship.  Canada and Jordan commercial relations are 
growing thanks to our long -standing partnership dating back as far as 2009 in the form of the 
Canada -Jordan Foreign Investment Protection and Promotion Agreement, followed by our 2012 
Free Trade Agreement. We hope to see bilateral trade continue to grow so that it may benefit 
Canadians and Jordanians alike.  
4.16.  We would like, i n particular, to highlight two notable recent developments in Jordan.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.17.  First, we commend Jordan on its 2020 -2025 National Strategy for Women. We welcome 
efforts to provide a safer and more equitable environment for women in all sectors, but in particular 
in the garment sector where women represent 69% of the workforce in Jordan. As garments of 
knitted or woven clothing constitute the largest Canadian imports from Jordan, and alone, exceed 
the amount of our pre -FTA bilateral trade, we are pleased to be colla borating with Jordan at the  
International Labour Organization to support a more inclusive and fair working environment for 
Jordan 's garment workers. We also welcome other policy changes, which will stand to benefit women 
such as amendments to Jordan 's Labo ur Law No.  10 of 2023 and the approval of the Flexible 
Employment Regulation No.  22 of 2017.  
4.18.  Second, we are pleased to see the progress of Jordan 's new Investment Law. Indeed, Canada 
supports a number of initiatives in Jordan through multilateral partners  in support of Jordan 's 
Economic Modernization Vision, including specifically in the promotion of trade and investment. Such 
initiatives help to foster a more sustainable and equitable global trading system which stands to 
benefit us all.  
4.19.  On the whole, we  were happy to note Jordan 's commitment to multilateralism and a 
rules-based trading system with the WTO at its core. We too see this as being the way forward to 
ensure global growth that benefits all and is sustainable for generations to come. We believe that 
the WTO is the appropriate forum to discuss recent economic or trade policy changes which could 
affect global trade and, as such, we call on Jordan to address its outstanding notifications, 
particularly in respect of the Agreement on Subsidies and Cou ntervailing Measures and Agriculture.  
Transparency via notifications is a key commitment for all WTO Members and we would note that 
TPR Reports are a rich source to support fulfilment of notification obligations.  
4.20.  As we move forward to the 13th Ministerial  Conference of the WTO, we look forward to 
engaging with Jordan and other WTO Members to achieve ambitious and timely outcomes in ongoing 
negotiations. In particular, we would encourage Jordan to consider joining the Agreement on 
Investment Facilitation fo r Development. This Agreement reinforces our commitment, not only to 
rules-based trade and investment, but to helping developing and least developed Members better 
participate in the global trading system. In addition, Canada would welcome Jordan taking on  the 
disciplines of the J oint Initiative on Services Domestic Regulation  and join us in implementing the 
first outcome on services at the WTO in more than 20  years. The Joint Initiative on Services Domestic 
Regulation  will help deliver new concrete trade r ules and lower costs for businesses. Finally, we 
encourage Jordan to proceed with ratifying the Fisheries Subsidies Agreement as soon as possible 
and join the Multiparty Interim Appeal -Arbitration Arrangement.  
4.21.  We thank Jordan for continuing to engage on di verse matters at the WTO and encourage its 
continued active participation in ongoing negotiations and initiatives.  
SEPARATE  CUSTOMS TERRITORY OF TAIWAN, PENGHU, KINMEN, AND MATSU  
4.22.  The Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen, and Matsu is deligh ted to 
participate Jordan 's third Trade Policy Review. We would like to extend a warm welcome to 
H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply , and Minister of Labour 
of Jordan and their respective delegates. We also express our gratitude to Ambassador 
H.E. Mr Omar  Zniber (Morocco) for his valuable comments as the discussant. Furthermore, we 
commend the high -quality reports presented by both the Secretariat and the Government of Jordan.  
4.23.  During the review period (2016 -2022), Jordan once again demonstrated its ability to maintain 
economic resilience in the face of multiple global and regional challenges. These challenges included 
a refugee influx resulting from the Syrian crisis, economic contraction during the COVID -19 
pandemic, and global inflationary pressures, along with food insecurity triggered by the 
Russian  Federation's  aggression against Ukraine. Following the COVID pandemic, Jordan's GDP 
growth gradually rebounded, with an increase of 2.5% in 2022 and 2.8% in th e first quarter of 2023. 
Merchandise trade also saw significant growth, rising by 28.7% in 2022 to reach USD 38.7 billion. 
Notably, Jordan's national exports in 2022 were up by 83% compared to 2016. The outlook for the 
Jordanian economy appears to be posit ive. 
4.24.  It is understood that Jordan's robust economic performance can be attributed to sound 
economic policies and multiple waves of reform aimed at further liberalizing the economy and WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  promoting a balanced and sustainable economic environment. We are confid ent that the "Economic 
Priorities Program 2021 -2023" and "Economic Modernization Vision 2030" will continue to support 
the transformation of Jordan's economic development.  
4.25.  Allow me to highlight some reform efforts undertaken by the Jordanian Government tha t we 
find highly commendable and of significant value to other WTO Members.  
4.26.  Firstly, we commend Jordan for reforming its tariff structure as of January  2022, streamlining 
tariff categories from 16 to 4. We also appreciate Jordan's commitment to gradually r educe tariffs 
on imported goods from 25% to 20% by 2025, and further to 15% starting from January  2027. 
These changes will undoubtedly facilitate and promote more international trade and business 
cooperation.  
4.27.  Secondly, on the trade facilitation front, we w elcome the amendments to the Customs Law 
in 2018 and 2019, which have put in place a comprehensive framework of regulation and procedure 
to facilitate international trade and reduce administrative burdens for traders, especially for micro, 
small, and mediu m enterprises (MSMEs).  
4.28.  The last one pertains to reforms in the area of investment, which is also of great interest to 
our business operators. We welcome the introduction of the Investment Act No.  21 of 2022, aimed 
at transforming the investment landscape b y creating a more favourable, friendly, transparent, and 
predictable environment. Certainly, this will further boost the confidence and willingness of foreign 
investors to explore opportunities in a wide range of sectors with exceptional potential.  
4.29.  In the context of the WTO, Jordan has consistently demonstrated strong support for a 
rules-based multilateral trading system. It continues to align its trade policies and regulations with 
WTO standards. Given that Jordan has already signed the Information Technol ogy Agreement (ITA) 
and recognizes the advantages of fostering trade in information technology products, we strongly 
encourage Jordan to consider joining the ITA Expansion. This step would simplify access to 
cutting -edge IT products, thereby promoting inno vation and technological progress.  
4.30.  Additionally, we acknowledge Jordan's ongoing efforts in the field of procurement reform. 
Jordan obtained its WTO GPA observer status and initiated accession negotiations in 2000. However, 
the accession process has been d ormant for quite a long time. We urge Jordan to consider 
reactivating its participation in the WTO Committee on Government Procurement (GPA), which would 
help reinforce its reforming effort to be in line with the international best practice.  
4.31.  We would like  to seize this opportunity to commend the Jordanian WTO Mission for its active 
engagement in the overall WTO activities. In particular, we deeply appreciate Ambassador 's, 
Mr Walid  Obeidat , significant contributions in his role as a coordinator for the Asia n Group of 
Developing Countries (AGDC) for the past two  years.  
4.32.  On a bilateral level, we have maintained positive and enduring relations with Jordan in 
economic and trade affairs. In 2022, our total two -way trade reached approximately 
USD 380 million. Our i nvestments in the Jordanian textile industry have significantly contributed to 
the overall export of Jordanian textile products. We are very interested in further intensifying our 
collaborative efforts with Jordan across all fronts to advance mutually bene ficial policy objectives.  
4.33.  In conclusion, we express our appreciation for Jordan's commitment to the Trade Policy 
Review process and wish it every success in this review.  
4.34.  Finally, a llow me to take this opportunity  to express our deep and sincere  condolence s to 
Morocco for those lives lost during the devastating  earthquake.  We wish all the best for Morocco to 
have a sp eedy recovery and our thoughts will be with all Morocc an people throughout the difficult 
process . 
JAPAN  
4.35.  First of all, like other speakers, we extend our deepest condolences to Morocco and its people 
for the deva stating  earthquake . WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.36.  Japan warmly welcomes the delegation of Jordan, headed by 
H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply and Minister of  Labour. 
We are grateful for the WTO Secretariat in preparing the comprehensive reports for today 's Review, 
and I also thank H.E. Dr Omar  Zniber , for his role as the discussant.  
4.37.  We would like to commend Jordan in that its GDP has increased by an estimated  2.5% and 
its goods trade has increased by 28.7 % in 2022, despite the COVID -19 pandemic. Japan would also 
like to note Jordan 's significant contribution to the international community in the fight against the 
pandemic.  Taking this opportunity, I would like  to highlight a few points.  
4.38.  First, on the multilateral trading system and the WTO, Jordan has been a Member of the WTO 
since 2000, and we are grateful for its ongoing contributions to strengthening the multilateral trading 
system.  
4.39.  In addition, we would li ke to commend Jordan for joining the ITA and TFA, and for 
commencing the ratification process of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. We hope that 
Jordan will also join the Joint Statement Initiatives.  
4.40.  Regarding notifications to the WTO, Jordan had 20  outstanding notifications as of June 2023. 
We would like to encourage Jordan to implement these notifications as soon as possible.  
4.41.  Second, as regards Jordan 's domestic legislation on trade and investment, Japan notes 
Jordan 's efforts in trade facilitation  and reform of the customs legislation, and the measures it has 
taken to attract foreign investment.  
4.42.  Japan commends Jordan for modernizing customs procedures by stipulating Customs Law 
No. 33 of 2018 and Law No.  10 of 2019 and by establishing the Trade Fac ilitation Portal, as well as 
for having reduced the number of customs duty categories and lowering tariffs for certain categories.  
4.43.  On trade facilitation, I would also like to highlight that Japan provided grant aid of up to 
JPY 1.7 billion for the project to enhance customs security at Aqaba port in 2019 to improve customs 
security and to facilitate Jordan 's trade.  
4.44.  And on foreign investment, Japan commends Jordan 's efforts for improving the investment 
environment by stipulating the Investment Environment La w No.  21 of 2022, which calls for equal 
treatment of domestic and foreign investors, freedom of capital movement and automation of 
processes. Japan looks forward to Jordan pursuing further liberalization on restrictions of foreign 
investment, such as restr ictions on the participation of foreign capitals.  
4.45.  Third, I would like to give updates on our bilateral relationship , as Japan and Jordan have 
enjoyed friendly and growing bilateral relations for many years. At the beginning of this month, 
former Foreign Mi nister Hayashi  Yoshimasa visited Jordan and had a courtesy call with 
H.E Dr Bisher  Hani Al-Khasawneh, Prime  Minister of Jordan. Former Foreign Minister Hayashi also 
held the Fourth Japan -Jordan Foreign Ministers ' Strategic Dialogue with H.E. Mr Ayman  Al Safadi, 
Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs.  
4.46.  Also, the Japan External Trade Organization (JETRO) and Jordan Strategy Forum held the 
Japan -Jordan Business Forum in July, which aimed at highlighting  the possibility of cooperation in 
Jordan 's new business fields.  
4.47.  We hope that our constructive cooperation will contribute to Jordan 's important role in the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.48.  To conclude, we would like to thank Jordan again for its notable work within and toward s the 
multilateral trading system and the WTO, and we look forward to working with Jordan to achieve 
fruitful results at MC13 next year.  
4.49.  We wish Jordan a successful and productive third Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.50.  On behalf of th e European  Union, I would first like to welcome the delegation of Jordan, led 
by H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali , Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply , and  Minister of 
Labour . Our appreciation is extended to the discussant, H.E.  Dr Omar  Zniber , Ambassador of 
Morocco and we would also like to join others in expressing our condolences for the recent 
earthquake.  
4.51.  In a region characterized by chronic instability, Jordan stands out as a stable country which 
has managed to weather the impacts of regiona l tensions and the global pandemic.  
4.52.  The regional crisis had severe impacts on Jordan's trade performance leading in particular to 
the loss of many of its traditional export markets such as Syria and Iraq. The recent rise in trade 
volume between Syria and Jordan is due to Syrian and Jordanian decisions to adjust border policies 
and some customs regulations to facilitate trade.  
4.53.  The EU commends Jordan's resilience in this difficult environment and praises, in particular, 
Jordan's uneasy balancing exercise to  respond to the severe exogenous shocks that have disrupted 
its trade routes and affected inward investments.  
4.54.  The EU commends Jordan 's commitment in embarking on a triple modernisation process: 
(i) moderni zing the political system; (ii)  the Economic Moder nization Vision and; (iii)  reforming the 
public administration. Jordan 's economic moderni zation remains contingent on identifying 
opportunities to expand the economy 's outward orientation and to implement reforms needed to 
promote private sector -led growth  and job creation.  
4.55.  The EU also commends Jordan 's Master Strategy for the Energy Sector 2020 -2030, as it shows 
commitment to sustainable energy, developing renewable energy, promoting opening of energy 
markets, encouraging investments in energy infrastructu re, regional connectivity, as well as 
improving energy efficiency (maximizing energy consumption/enhancing productivity), thereby 
contributing to investment incentives in clean energy.  
4.56.  Jordan has carried out a certain number of reforms in recent years aime d at improving the 
trade and investment climate. In particular, the EU acknowledges the restructuring of the customs 
tariffs as part of a comprehensive customs reform, which also includes a review of procedures for 
the purpose of simplifying them. The new Investment Law (2022) and the Investment Promotion 
Strategy have been launched and are expected to contribute to implement the ambitious new 
Economic Moderni zation Vision. More recently, the National Export Strategy 2023 -2025, aiming at 
increasing Jordania n exports to various markets, has been launched and an industrial policy 
(2023 -2027) has also been recently announced.  
4.57.  The EU notes with satisfaction the ratification by Jordan of a series of important international 
treaties in the area of protection of IPRs as well as the adoption of related legislation. Jordan has 
also made important efforts in the area of patents.  
4.58.  The EU and Jordan have a strong partnership and with a view to further strengthening our 
solid and multi -faceted relationship,  the Partnership Priorities 2021 -2027 have been signed to 
support the implementation of the EU -Jordan Association Agreement.  
4.59.  Trade -for-Development constitutes a key element of the EU -Jordan Partnership Priorities. Job 
creation, supported by the uptick in e xports to the EU under the simplified rules of origin scheme 
and accompanying measures, will benefit Jordan. The EU and Jordan will jointly identify suitable 
approaches to enhance bilateral trade and investment relations. Furthermore, the EU and Jordan 
will work together on SMEs, development, technology and know -how to strengthen bilateral and 
economic ties.  
4.60.  The EU and Jordan have close trade relationship. The EU is Jordan 's second most important 
trading partner. According to our statistics, the value of tr ade in goods between the EU and Jordan 
increased by over 70% between 2002 - the year the Association Agreement entered into force – 
and 2022, reaching EUR 4.8 billion at the end of 2022. There has also been a positive development WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  for trade in services which increased by 5% between 2020 and 2021, from EUR 1.29 billion in 2020 
to EUR 1.36 billion in 2021.  
4.61.  Jordan has been a Member of WTO since 11 April 2000. The cu rrent rate of implementation 
notifications of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement's commitments stands at 100% with a 
timeframe spanning from February  2017 to December  2022. However, the Category  C commitments 
do not show any progress up to date.  
4.62.  We appre ciate Jordan 's membership of the Information Technology Agreement. Jordan 
currently holds observer status in the Committee on Government Procurement and we invite it to 
open negotiations for accession to the Agreement on Government Procurement. We also inv ite 
Jordan to consider joining other plurilateral agreements, including the Joint Initiative on Investment 
Facilitation for Development.  
4.63.  Two additional issues to be taken forward in support of enhanced trade opportunities.  
4.64.  We invite Jordan to continue rai sing awareness on the simplified Rules of Origin Scheme, 
signed with the EU in 2018, and to seize its full potential for growth and job creation.   
4.65.  The EU would also like to take the opportunity to commend the Agadir Agreement member 
countries, including Jo rdan, for the positive developments on customs cooperation, trade facilitation 
and the accession of the Lebanese  Republic and Palestine . Jordan has also a role to play in the 
political redirection and technical consolidation of this Agreement.  
4.66.  We would li ke to thank Jordan for the responses to the questions we have previously 
submitted in writing.  
4.67.  On behalf of the EU, I look forward to a constructive exchange of views during this review. 
I wish Jordan delegation the utmost success during its Trade Policy R eview.  
ARGENTINA  
4.68.  En primer lugar, quisiéramos sumarnos a las condolencias extendidas a Marruecos y a su 
pueblo.  
4.69.  Damos  la bienvenida a la delegación de Jordania, encabezada por el 
Excmo.  Sr. Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Ministro de Industria, Comercio y Abastecimiento y 
Ministro de Trabajo; y hacemos propicia esta oportunidad para augurarle el mayor de los éxitos en 
este ejercicio.  
4.70.  Al mismo tiempo, deseamos expresar nuestro agradecimiento por los informes elaborados 
por Jordania y la Secretaría , así como por los valiosos comentarios brindados por el Embajador 
Zniber de Marruecos. Estos elementos han contribuido a enriquecer nuestra comprensión de las 
políticas, prácticas comerciales y entorno económico de Jordania.  
4.71.  Nos complace destacar el notab le aumento que ha experimentado el intercambio comercial 
entre nuestras naciones a lo largo de la última década. Durante este período, Argentina se ha 
consolidado como el segundo socio comercial de Jordania en el continente latinoamericano. En 2022, 
las ex portaciones argentinas alcanzaron un monto de más de USD 300 millones, mientras que las 
importaciones de bienes jordanos a Argentina ascendieron a USD 26,1 millones.  
4.72.  En cuanto a la composición del comercio bilateral, en el año 2022, los principales produc tos 
exportados por Argentina hacia Jordania fueron residuos y desperdicios de las industrias 
alimentarias, alimentos preparados para animales, y cereales. Además, en el mismo año, la principal 
importación argentina desde Jordania fueron los abonos.  
4.73.  Reconoc emos que el intercambio comercial aún se encuentra por debajo de su potencial; y 
expresamos nuestro deseo de avanzar en el fortalecimiento de nuestras relaciones comerciales 
mediante el aumento y la diversificación de las exportaciones en sectores estratég icos, como la 
agricultura. Estamos convencidos de que existen numerosas oportunidades por explorar que 
beneficiarán a nuestros sectores productivos.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.74.  En este marco, Argentina agradecerá la restitución del acceso de las exportaciones de carne 
y productos avi ares de toda Argentina, a partir del 7  de agosto  de 2023, en tanto mi país se 
autodeclaró como país libre de Influenza Aviar de Alta Patogenidad, publicada por la Organización 
Mundial de Sanidad Animal el 16  de agosto. Argentina también desea obtener el re conocimiento del 
sistema de zonificación para la Influenza Aviar de Alta Patogenidad.  
4.75.  Durante el período de examen, Jordania ha enfrentado diversos desafíos económicos. Sin 
embargo, es importante destacar que, a pesar de estas dificultades, Jordania ha dem ostrado una 
notable resiliencia y una firme determinación en la implementación de una serie de reformas y 
políticas dirigidas a fortalecer su economía y mejorar su competitividad.  
4.76.  Jordania es, al igual que Argentina, un país que respalda el sistema multil ateral de comercio 
basado en normas. Es un ejemplo de nación que participa seriamente en esta Organización; y 
confiamos en que continúe incrementando su involucramiento en las actividades y Órganos de la 
misma.  
4.77.  Adicionalmente, hacemos uso de esta oportuni dad para reiterar nuestra intención de trabajar 
en conjunto con Jordania y toda la Membresía en el proceso de reforma. Aspiramos a fortalecer las 
capacidades de esta Organización para abordar los desafíos presentes y futuros del comercio 
internacional, cre ando un sistema multilateral de comercio más justo, capaz de atender las 
necesidades de los países en vías de desarrollo.  
4.78.  Aprovechamos también esta ocasión para reafirmar nuestra intención de continuar 
fortaleciendo los vínculos con Jordania, fundamentándo nos en los principios de la cooperación 
Sur-Sur, tales como la igualdad, la solidaridad y la complementariedad.  
4.79.  Por último, y en el marco de este examen de política comercial, hemos presentado a Jordania 
una serie de preguntas sobre sus prioridades de cara  a la próxima Conferencia Ministerial, el nuevo 
Ministerio de Inversiones, el Portal de Facilitación del Comercio, entre otras cuestiones. Agradecemos 
de antemano las respuestas .  
4.80.  Además de reiterar nuestro reconocimiento por esta nueva oportunidad de inte rcambiar 
consideraciones sobre las prácticas comerciales de Jordania, permítanos señalar, una vez más, la 
relevancia de este ejercicio de transparencia en todos sus aspectos y desear a las autoridades de 
Jordania una exitosa conclusión del presente examen.   
UNITED  KINGDOM  
4.81.  I would like to warmly welcome the delegation of Jordan here to Geneva today, led by our 
friend Mr  Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, for what is their third Trade Policy Review. We also extend 
our thanks to you Chair for leading this review, and to Ambassador H.E.  Mr Omar  Zniber, for acting 
as the discussant for this event.  
4.82.  We want to also echo the sentiment of condolence to Morocco for the recent devastating 
earthquake which impacted de country.  
4.83.  Since Jordan 's last Review at the WTO a new Association Agreement between the UK and 
Jordan has entered into force in 2021, supporting our bilateral trade. This Agreement has already 
born clear fruits, with the UK and Jordan 's trading relationship growing and worth GBP 1 billion over 
the last year.  
4.84.  We look forward to developing this relationship further and had the opportunity to do so with 
the UK Foreign Secretary 's visit to Jordan in July, where he enjoyed warm and productive meetings 
with King  Abdullah  II and Foreign Minister Safadi.  
4.85.  Turning to t he previous Jordan Trade Policy Review in 2015, Jordan noted the steps forward 
that had been taken on liberali zing Jordan 's investment regime. The actions that Jordan has since 
taken to build on this foundation are strongly welcomed by the UK, notably the establishment of the 
Ministry of Investment in 2021, the Investment Law of 2022, and the development of the "One-Stop 
Window " for all investment authori zations.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.86.  We also welcome the other constructive steps taken by Jordan over the last review period. 
The Economic Modernization Vision 2033 issued last year sets out ambitious goals for the 
development of Jordan in terms of growth, quality of life, competitiveness, prosperity , and 
sustainability.  
4.87.  Its success will depend significantly on Jordan 's ability to a ttract more foreign direct 
investment and to grow its exports. As the UK has an FDI stock of GBP 6.6 billion in Jordan, we plan 
to be a strong contributor to the Vision.  
4.88.  The implementation work which Jordan has done on the Trade Facilitation Agreement, 
particularly launching the Trade Facilitation Portal in 2021, has also been a welcome step towards 
facilitation and access for traders. Although the UK benefits from our own Association Agreement, 
we nonetheless commend the steps taken by Jordan to simplify their tariff system, reducing the 
number of tariff brackets and bound rates, and encourage all further moves towards improved access 
for traders.  
4.89.  Textile products remain one of the leading export commodities within the Jordanian economy. 
They also maintai n great cultural significance. I would like to suggest that that just as ancestral 
Jordanian weaving cannot be done alone, but relies on the careful cooperation and coordination of 
many hands, so Jordan 's future prosperity relies upon taking further steps towards embracing a 
cooperative and open trading economy.  
4.90.  I would also like to thank Jordan for the openness and cooperation it showed in its responses 
to our questions regarding the success of economic measures designed to enhance women 's 
participation i n the labour market. The rate of female economic participation in Jordan is one of the 
lowest in the world and increasing this significantly will be an essential part of delivering on Jordan 's 
ambitions for growing its economy, trade, and jobs.  
4.91.  The Foreig n Secretary had the opportunity to discuss these ambitions with the Chair of the 
Inter-Ministerial Committee on Women 's Empowerment and Civil Society during his visit to Jordan, 
and we look forward to following the successful implementation of the 2023 -2025 Executive Plan for 
the National Strategy for Women in Jordan.  
4.92.  If the last 100 years of friendship between our two countries can offer any lessons, it is that 
we have this same spirit of close cooperation to thank for how closely we have remained bounded 
together. I would like to thank Jordan for their full cooperation with this Trade Policy Review, express 
gratitude for their responses to our advanced written questions, and look forward to the next century 
of our friendship.  
UNITED  STATES  
4.93.  On behalf of th e United  States , I am pleased to participate in Jordan 's third Trade Policy 
Review and extend a warm welcome to the  delegation, led by Minister Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali , 
and Ambassador Walid  Obeidat . 
4.94.  Jordan's economy has faced many external and internal challenges during the period under 
review, from the economic shutdown due to the pandemic to closed borders from prolonged regional 
geo-political conflicts, and most recently food and energy price disruptions resulting following 
Russian  Federation 's unprovoked invasion of Ukraine. These shocks have resulted in a mounting 
fiscal burden and contributed to anemic growth pressures resulting in the slowing of economic 
growth.  
4.95.  Notwithstanding its difficulties, the Government and citizens of Jordan have h osted over 
1.5 million people displaced by regional conflicts. We would like to take the opportunity to recognize 
and commend Jordan for such incredible generosity in the face of adversity.  
4.96.  I also want to commend Jordan on women empowerment and inclusivity  that the Minister 
described and others have mentioned.  
4.97.  As a WTO Member, Jordan has strongly supported WTO principles by ratifying the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement in 2017 and subsequently amending its customs laws. Jordan has also WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  eliminated consularizati on practices and dismantled its export subsidy program. Recently, Jordan 
revised its patent protection regime to align with its international obligations and has already met 
most WTO TFA obligations. The United  States applauds these efforts and will assist  where possible 
in implementing any remaining TFA commitments.  
4.98.  The United  States is working to support Jordan's development through enhancing our bilateral 
trade relationship. In 2000, we signed a free trade agreement that has achieved significant and 
extensive liberalization and eliminated all tariff and non -tariff barriers to bilateral trade in virtually 
all industrial goods and agricultural products. After Jordan's access to some traditional markets were 
temporarily disrupted, the U.S. and Jordan worked together to expand Jordan's competitiveness by 
identifying new market opportunities through bilateral trade reform assistance programming.  
4.99.  There is great potential in Jordan 's economy, and it is critical that Jordan therefore continues 
to prioritize econom ic reforms. Many of the questions we posed in this review reflect our desire to 
encourage Jordan to increase transparency and predictability in its administration of its trading 
regime in order to attract commercial engagement and foreign investment.  
4.100.   For example, we seek clarity on how Jordan manages its trade remedy procedures. We also 
note that Jordan in the last 10  years has not notified a technical regulation or standard. This same 
lapse extends to notifications to the Committee on Agriculture. Addition ally, we seek to better 
understand some customs and border procedures, from paper documentation and import licensing 
requirements to testing and inspection procedures.  
4.101.   Also, robust intellectual property protection and enforcement are important to driving 
investment and economic growth. We believe that Jordan, in general, has a strong regime for 
protecting IP and would welcome the opportunity to discuss its implementation of the 
Marrakesh  Treaty to facilitate the access to public works for persons who are b lind, visually impaired, 
or otherwise print disabled.  
4.102.   In closing, Jordan has shown that integration with the international trading system is an 
important element of its overall economic growth strategy and views the WTO as the critical tool for 
achieving t his integration. We would like to commend Jordan for being one of the few developing 
countries negotiating accession to the Plurilateral Agreement on Government Procurement. We are, 
of course, willing to work with you to advance that process and more broad ly to strengthen and 
deepen our trade relationship.  
4.103.   Before ending, I would like to join others in expressing our sincere condolences to Morocco 
for the losses suffered from the recent earthquake.  
CHINA  
4.104.   China would like to extend our warm welcome to the de legation of Jordan, led by 
H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, to this TPR meeting. I would also like to thank the Government 
of Jordan and the Secretariat for their preparation of this meeting and the discussant Ambassador 
Mr Omar  Zniber (Morocco) for his insightful remarks.  
4.105.   China  commends Jordan 's economic resilience and stability during  the review period despite 
the multiple external challenges, including COVID -19 pandemic, food insecurity, regional terrorism, 
etc. In 2022, tourism income witnessed a yea r-on-year growth of 110%, surpassing the 
pre-pandemic level. Goods export also expanded by 33.8% over 2021. These positive developments 
collectively contributed to the sustainability of public debt and foreign exchange reserve.  
4.106.   We commend Jordan's efforts  and achievement on further liberalizing trade and investment 
regime, for example, through the Economic Modernization Vision  2030 and Investment 
Environmental Law. Notably, Jordan 's total investment volume exhibited a 49.1% increase during 
the first quarter of 2023.  
4.107.   We encourage Jordan to continue liberalize its trade and investment regime. In this context, 
China wishes to draw Jordan attention to the Investment Facilitation for Development initiative 
(IFD), a multilateral -oriented initiative with dev elopment at its heart. The IFD agreement contains 
a set of rules to facilitate the flow of foreign direct investment, aiming to help participating Members WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  create a more transparent, efficient , and investment -friendly business climate. Now, more than 
110 WTO Members have offered their support to the IFD. We hope Jordan could actively consider 
joining this initiative.  
4.108.   China appreciates Jordan 's contribution to the WTO and rule s-based multilateral trading 
system. Jordan has been actively participating in vari ous WTO activities. In this regard, I would like 
to particularly express my sincere appreciation to Ambassador Walid  Obeidat for his hard work and 
dedication, especially his role as AGDC coordinator in the past two years.  
4.109.   China also acknowledges Jordan 's effort on aligning its trade policies and regulations with 
WTO rules since its accession. As mentioned by the Government Report, its WTO membership has 
played a pivotal role in shaping its trade policies, fostering transparency, and f acilitating integration 
into the global economy. Particularly, during the COVID -19 crisis, Jordan refrained from imposing 
protective measures despite the multiple challenges.  
4.110.   On the bilateral front, China and Jordan share close economic ties, underpinned by rapidly 
growing two -way trade and investment flow. In 2022, the total trade volume between China and 
Jordan reached USD 6.5 billion, 46.3% more than last year, and Jordan 's export to China soared 
75.1% to USD 740 million. In addition, in 2022, Jordan at tracted more than USD 45 million direct 
investment from China, recording a 124% year -on-year growth.  
4.111.   Looking ahead, China is confident that our bilateral economic cooperation will be further 
enhanced. China and Arab countries, including Jordan, have built  a variety of cooperative 
mechanisms, such as the Belt and Road Initiative and China -Arab States Cooperation Forum. 
In December  2022, the first China -Arabic States Summit was held in Riyadh. China 's 
President  XI Jinping attended the summit in person and pu t forward  Eight Major Cooperation 
Initiatives, including  development support, food security, public health, green innovation, energy 
security, inter -civilizational dialogue, youth development, and security and stability.  
4.112.   For the purpose of this review, Ch ina has submitted written  questions in areas such as SPS , 
custom procedures , rules of origin, import licensing , etc. We greatly appreciate Jordan  for the timely  
responses  to our questions. We also notice that Jordan has some unfulfilled notifications on 
agriculture, IP, market access and services. We hope these obligations could be met as soon as 
possible, with appropriate technical assistance and capacity building from the Secre tariat, if needed.  
4.113.   In conclusion, I wish them a very successful TPR.  
KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA ON BEHALF OF THE ARAB GROUP  
4.114.   Before I start, I would like to offer our deepest sympathy and condolences to our brothers 
and sisters in Morocco and Libya for the un fortunate and devastating disasters in the last two weeks.  
4.115.   On behalf of the Arab Group, I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the distinguished 
delegation of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan headed by H.E.  Mr Yousef  Al-Shamali, Minister of 
Industry , Trade, and Supply, and Minister of Labour.  
4.116.   We thank our brothers in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the WTO Secretariat for 
their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy Review Reports. We also thank the discussant 
H.E. Mr Omar  Zniber, Ambassador and  Permanent Representative of Morocco to the WTO for his 
insightful remarks.  
4.117.   The Arab Group commends the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for the significant 
improvement to its trade and investment regimes, including tariff and investment framework. 
The real GDP  growth of the Kingdom averaged 1.6% in 2022 although, like the rest of the world, 
the Kingdom 's economy faced some challenges due to the pandemic. However, these challenges 
were efficiently mitigated by the adoption of strong measures taken by the Governm ent. 
4.118.   The Arab  Group would like to praise the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for its first Climate 
Change National Adaptation Plan, the Government's Economic Priorities Program, the new 
Investment Environment Law, the reform of the tax system, the Cabinet appr oval of the major WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  customs reform, the improvement of patent protection regime, the National Agricultural 
Development Strategy  and the Master Strategy for the Energy Sector.  
4.119.   We also praise the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for enabling the private sector to c reate 
jobs for Jordanians; stimulating local and foreign investments; and increasing national exports of 
goods and services. The Economic Priorities Program (EPP) is based on three pillars: improving the 
business and investment environment; enhancing compe tition and increasing employment; and 
supporting priority sectors (tourism, IT, agriculture, and industry).  
4.120.   We congratulate the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan for its Economic Modernization Vision 
aiming to enhance growth and quality of life by creating 1 million new jobs; improving the Kingdom's 
ranking on global competitiveness, environment, prosperity and sustainability indexes; and 
expanding into high value -added service and industrial sectors.  
4.121.   Moreover, the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is to be commended f or being committed to 
the rules -based multilateral trading system and for its active participations in the WTO negotiations.  
KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA  
4.122.   I would like to say a few words about the relations between the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia 
and the Hashemite K ingdom of Jordan. The Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia and the Hashemite Kingdom 
of Jordan are not only neighbours enjoying brotherly outstanding relations that supported by shared 
membership in the Arab  League and the OIC, but they are prominent trading partners. Trade 
exchange between the two countries exceeded SAR 16 billion in 2021. Moreover, Saudi -Jordanian 
Business Council remains very active in paving the way for closer economic cooperation and 
gener ating valuable business opportunities between the two countries.  
4.123.   Before I conclude, I would like to thank H.E.  Mr Walid  Obeidat , Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan to the WTO and his distinguished team for the 
excell ent cooperation between our two missions here in Geneva which excellently serves our trade 
interests.  
4.124.   To conclude, we wish our brothers and sisters in the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan a very 
successful Trade Policy Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.125.   First, we would like to ext end our condolences to the victims of Morocco and their families.  
4.126.   Secondly, Brazil thanks Jordan for submitting information about its trade and economy in 
the Trade Policy Review and the work done by the Secretariat of the WTO to support Jordan to make 
this exercise possible. It is a very important exercise of transparency, which Brazil values.  
4.127.   We also are grateful to Jordan for answering our questions, which will be submitted to 
Brasilia for further and more technical analysis, especially regarding SPS.  
4.128.   Brazil is working towards more integration into the Middle  East, which includes Jordan. Brazil 
imports from Jordan increased 2,186% in a five -year period from 2017 to 2022. However, it is far 
from our potential. The reason why it's important for our countr ies to keep working on difficulties 
we are already facing in our trade, not only for more growth in an equitable way, but also 
diversification.  
4.129.   Most of our exports are still concentrated in some products. That is what brings Brazil here, 
to try to comprehe nd some points in Jordan's trade and domestic policy as to cooperate and work 
together with Jordan in both a multilateral and bilateral development agenda from which both 
nations could benefit.  
TÜRK İYE 
4.130.   We welcome the delegation of Jordan headed by H.E.  Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali 
Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply , and Minister of Labour.  We thank the Secretariat and the WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  Government of Jordan for their detailed reports , and for the answers provided from the Government 
to our questions;  as well as to the discussant Ambassador Omar  Zniber of Morocco for his invaluable 
remarks.  
4.131.   I would like to join others to extend our condolences to the people of Morocco for the 
devastating earthquake.  
4.132.   We commend the steps that were undertaken during the review period to change Jordan 's 
trade and investment regimes, including through a tariff reform and a new investment framework.  
Türkiye welcomes Jordan 's adoption of Law 2022/21 which introduces new investor -friendly 
mechanisms and enhances the digitalization and automati zation of procedures.  We also believe that 
Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision will transform the entire economic environment in the 
country.  
4.133.   As highlighted in the reports, the services sector remains the main contributor to GDP.  
Jordan has big potential in sectors such as transportation, education, healthcare, tourism, 
contracting and construction among others; and Türkiye is keen on boosting cooperation with Jordan 
in such areas.  
4.134.   Our trade volume exceeded USD 1 billion last year despite global and regional challenges. 
We aim to build on this momentum and further increase bilateral trade.  
4.135.   Deputy Prime  Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Jordan paid an official visit to Ankara 
to meet our Minister of Foreign Affairs in July this year. In t heir meeting, they discussed bilateral 
relations and exchanged views to further develop economic relations.  
4.136.   We consider that it will be useful to convene a Joint Economic Commission meeting in order 
to discuss at length our economic relations. We also beli eve that visits of business delegations can 
prove beneficial.  
4.137.   We hope that we will further deepen our relations in every possible field.  
4.138.   In conclusion, we would like to take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Walid  Obeidat 
and Permanent  Mission of Jordan  to the WTO for the excellent preparation for this review.  
4.139.   We wish Jordan a successful Trade Policy Review.  
MAURITIUS  
4.140.   Mauritius welcomes the delegation of Jordan led by H .E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali , 
Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply of Jordan for  this third Trade Policy Review.  We thank the 
discussant, H .E. Mr Omar  Zniber of Morocco for his informative remarks.  
4.141.    Mauritius commends Jordan for its June  2022 Economic Modernization Vision and earlier for 
coming up with its Economic Priorities Program (EPP) 2021 -2023 which aims at prioritizing key 
business environment reforms activating Public Private Partnerships (PPPs) and financing in key 
sectors for investment and job creation.  
4.142.   Similar to Mauritius, Jordan is an economy highly de pendent on international trade and also 
faces challenges posed by climate change.  
4.143.   We note Jordan 's active participation in the WTO and especially the move towards lower 
average tariff as well as improved intellectual property protection.  
4.144.   The notable chang es to its s trade and investment are deeply welcomed including through a 
tariff reform and a new investment framework and we hope that Jordan will cope with the 
outstanding WTO notifications in due course.  
4.145.   Mauritius exports mainly sugar to Jordan and impor ts some raw materials as well as 
consumer goods.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.146.   Mauritius is actively engaging with countries in Asia and the Middle  East to unlock trade and 
investment potentials.  
4.147.   In this regard we look forward to considering appropriate mechanisms to step up our 
engagement both with the Government Authorities and the private sector of Jordan. Mauritius is 
strategically located between the Asian and African continents, being part of the latter, and could 
serve as an appropriate platform for Jordan investors targeting t he African continent . 
4.148.   Mauritius  ambitions for our two countries to establish closer links through their trade 
promotion bodies in order to identify any business possibilities with a view to exploiting the existing 
trade potential, enhance trade ties and bi lateral investment flows.  
4.149.   We wish Jordan a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
OMAN ON BEHALF OF THE GULF COOPERATION COUNCIL (GCC)  
4.150.   It is a great pleasure to participate in the third Trade Policy Review of Jordan and deliver 
this statement on behalf of th e Member States of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC). I wish to 
extend a warm welcome to H.E . Mr Yousef  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply and 
Minister of Labour of Jordan and his distinguished delegation.  
4.151.   I would like to take this oppor tunity to thank our brothers in Jordan and the WTO  Secretariat 
for their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy Review reports. I also thank the discussant 
H.E. Mr Omar  Zniber, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Morocco to the United Nations 
and o ther International Organizations in Geneva, for his pertinent remarks . We would like to express 
our deep condolences and solidarity with Morocco due to the recent earthquake.  
4.152.   The GCC fully associates itself by the statement delivered by the delegation of the Kingdom 
of Saudi  Arabia on behalf of the Arab  Group.  
4.153.   The GCC and Jordan enjoy a brotherly friendly relationship supported by shared membership 
within the Arab  League. The geographical proximity between our countries is one of the most 
prominent factors  in the success of their trade as well as their close political relations.  
4.154.   The Jordan -Gulf Cooperation Council Economic Forum was established with the aim of 
extending economic relations. According to statistics in 2021, the value of trade between Jordan and 
GCC reached USD 6.6 billion. Jordanian exports to the GCC were worth USD 1.7 billion of that total, 
while Jordan's imports accounted for USD 4.9 billion.  
4.155.   Despite double challenges faced by Jordan during the review period , the GCC commend 
Jordan for it s Economic Modernization Vision 2030 which aims to comprehensive development, 
sustainable economic growth, and an improved quality of life.  
4.156.   Jordan should also be commended for the important changes applied to its trade and 
investment regimes by adoption of  a new investment framework and the progress towards critical 
fiscal structural reforms, through a major customs reform over 2022 -2028.  
4.157.   The COVID -19 pandemic had a significant impact on the Jordanian economy in 2020. Despite 
the challenges it has faced, J ordan's economy has shown resilience and has grown in recent years. 
The outlook for the Jordanian economy is positive.  
4.158.   We are glad to note that economic reforms continued throughout this period and focused on 
increasing efficiency and inclusiveness. Measu res to improve efficiency included several steps on 
trade and investment facilitation, the volume of total investments benefiting from the Investment 
Environment Law has exhibited a substantial increase during the first quarter of the current year, 
soaring  by 49.1%.  
4.159.   Such efforts resulted in improving Jordan rankings in several world and regional indicators. 
It is considered as one of the freest economies in the Middle East and North Africa region. Jordan is 
one of the four countries from the MENA region that accounted  for almost half of the region's reforms. 
Jordan experienced a remarkable jump of 29  ranks in the ease of doing business ranking.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.160.   Jordan has made significant strides in improving its business climate, earning a spot among 
the top 10  global improvers in th e World  Bank's 2020 business rankings. The country's first -time 
classification as a top business climate reformer in the MENA region is attributed to three major 
reforms: including ease of doing business, financial competence, stability, and attraction of foreign 
direct investment (FDI).  
4.161.   Jordan is strongly commit ted to the rules -based multilateral trading system and actively 
participates in the WTO negotiations.  
4.162.   I would like to seize this opportunity to say a few words on behalf of the delegation of Oman.  
4.163.   Relations between the Sultanate of Oman and Jordan assume significance due to their 
deep-rooted historical ties. The ties gave impetus to education and knowledge sharing between the 
two countries.  
4.164.   During the last meeting in July  2023 the Omani -Jordanian Joint Committee, saw the signing 
of several memoranda of un derstanding and executive programs in the fields of industrial cities, 
youth, environment, consumer protection , and educational cooperation.  
4.165.   The volume of trade exchange between the Sultanate of Oman and Jordan during the 
year 2022 amounted to about USD 127.6 million. The value of exports from the Sultanate of Oman 
to Jordan amounted to USD 57.4 million in the same year.  
4.166.   The most important Omani exports to the Jordanian market are iron products, natural gas, 
polyethylene products and others, while Jordani an imports to the Omani market include 
pharmaceutical products, vegetables, fruits, jewellery, meat and food products.  
4.167.   In the end, I would like to thank H.E.  Mr Walid  Obeidat, Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative of Jordan to the United Nations and oth er International Organizations in Geneva, and 
his distinguished team for the excellent cooperation between our two missions here in Geneva, which 
serve our mutual interests.  
4.168.   To conclude, on behalf of GCC delegations, I wish the delegation of Jordan a very  successful 
third Trade Policy Review.  
YEMEN  
4.169.   My delegation allies itself with statement made by the Kingdom of Saudi  Arabia on behalf of 
the Arab  Group. We deliver this in our national capacity.  
4.170.   My delegation extend a warm welcome to the brotherly delegat ion of the Hashemite Kingdom 
of Jordan, led by H.E.  Mr Yousef  Al-Shamali , Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply and Minster of 
Labour . We also thank the discussant H.E.  Mr Omar  Zniber, Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative of Morocco to the WTO for his  remarks.  We also renew our deep condolences to 
Morocco for the devastating earthquake.  
4.171.   The Republic of Yemen takes the floor to congratulate the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on 
the occasion of its Review at the WTO. Yemen praises Jordan for major investmen t projects have 
been implemented in recent years. In the meantime, the Government continued to pursue reforms 
for macroeconomic stability, as well as promoting economic diversification through increased 
participation of the private sector and foreign inves tment. We also praise Jordan for the significant 
efforts in implementing trade -economic policies to promote economic growth, attract foreign 
investment, and enhance its position in the global market . 
4.172.   Yemen welcome s, Jordan's Economic Modernization Vision 2 030 aiming to enhance, over 
a 10-year period, growth, and quality of life by creating 1 million new jobs; improving Jordan's 
ranking on global competitiveness, environment, prosperity, and sustainability. In line with its 
economic modernization vision, we commend Jordan for introducing the Investment Law No.  21 
of 2022, which aims to provide a supportive environment for existing investments and attract new 
foreign investments.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.173.   Jordan is an active participant in the activities of the  WTO, as well as in different areas of 
negotiations. The proactive efforts made it possible to highly involve in the WTO multilateral trade 
negotiations.  
4.174.   We wish the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan every success in its objectives, as well as on its 
Review.  
KINGDOM OF BAHRAIN  
4.175.   Allow me to begin by renewing our heartfelt condolences to H .E. Ambassador of Morocco 
and the Moroccan people for the devastating impacts of the  earthquake.  
4.176.   The Kingdom  of Bahrain  is delighted to participate in the third Trade Policy Revie w of Jordan , 
and would like to warmly welcome H.E.  Mr Yousef  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply 
and the Ministry of Labour, and H.E.  Mr Walid  Obeidat Ambassador and Permanent Representative 
of Jordan to the WTO and wish them and their deleg ation a very successful Review.  
4.177.   We would also like to thank the Government of Jordan, the Permanent Mission of Jordan in 
Geneva and the WTO Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the detailed reports. We also thank 
the discussant, H.E.  Mr Omar  Zniber, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Morocco for his 
insightful remarks.  
4.178.   Jordan has always been an important partner of the Kingdom  of Bahrain , sharing a strong 
and long -standing economic relationship. We are therefore delighted to see all the positi ve 
transformations and economic growth mentioned in the Report. This of course comes after Jordan 
made significant strides during the period under review.  
4.179.   We are pleased that the Report highlights Jordan 's launch of the Economic Modernization 
Vision which  aims to enhance growth and quality of life by creating 1 million new jobs; improving 
Jordan 's ranking on global competitiveness, environment, prosperity, and sustainability indexes, as 
well as expanding into high value -added service and industrial sectors . 
4.180.   I cannot conclude this statement without highlighting the Jordan 's role as a long -standing 
and strong supporter of the WTO and the multilateral trading system with its consistent active and 
constructive participation in the multilateral discussions withi n the WTO.  
4.181.   Finally, we would like to thank once again the discussant for his   remarks and active 
discussion and the Jordanian Government and WTO Secretariat for their tireless efforts in preparing 
the detailed reports, and wish our brothers in Jordan once a gain a very successful Review.  
TUNISIE  
4.182.   Ma délégation a le plaisir de participer au troisième examen des politiques commerciales de 
la Jordanie et souhaite une chaleureuse bienvenue à S.E.  M. Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali , Ministre 
de l'industrie, du commerce et de l'approvisionnement, et à la délégation qui l'accompagne de 
Amman et de Genève, et le féliciter pour l'effort de synthèse et d'analyse fournis pour nous brosser 
un tableau exhaustif de la situation économique et  de la politique commerciale de son pays.  
4.183.   Je remercie également S.E.  l'Ambassadeur Omar  Zniber, pour les remarques pertinentes 
développées dans sa présentation, et je lui réitère nos condoléances les plus sincères et félicite le 
Secrétariat pour le rappor t complet qu'il nous a soumis à l'occasion de cet examen.  
4.184.   Nous tenons en premier lieu, à saluer la clairvoyance de la politique jordanienne qui a su 
puiser dans la richesse du patrimoine du pays et les multiples vestiges de ses grandes civilisations 
pour y faire de ce pays frère un havre de paix et de développement dans le Moyen -Orient, malgré 
les tensions et l'instabilité de l'environnement régional.  
4.185.   A court de ressources naturelles et de terres agricoles la Jordanie s'est appuyée sur 
l'ouverture au commerce extérieur et sur un climat d'affaires favorable aux investissements, pour 
bâtir une économie résiliente; constat qui a été soulevé dans les rapports, démontrant que malgré 
une période considérée fortement impactée par la polycrise, la Jordanie a su maitriser l'inflation à WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  une moyenne raisonnable de 1,9% durant la période d'examen et maintenir un niveau positif de 
croissance du PIB réel établie à 1,6%, grâce notamment à des mesures budgétaires et monétaires 
efficaces mises en place.  
4.186.   Nous saluons à cet égard, la Vision ambitieuse de modernisation économique de la Jordanie 
annoncée en juin  2022, visant à renforcer la compétitivité, la qualité de vie et la durabilité de la 
croissance ainsi que la création d'un million de nouveaux emplois,  y compris pour rétablir de 
déséquilibre structurel impactant l'employabilité des jeunes travailleuses.  
4.187.   Par ailleurs la diversité des programmes de réformes et de modernisation à l'instar, de la 
Stratégie nationale en faveur des femmes 2020 -2025, la réform e douanière en cours, le Plan Climat 
Amman Vision 2050, mis en place pour faire face à la vulnérabilité du pays au changements 
climatiques, dénotent de la souplesse et l'adaptabilité qui caractérisent la gouvernance publique en 
Jordanie.  
4.188.   En outre, la Jorda nie demeure depuis son adhésion à l'OMC un acteur actif à l'Organisation 
veillant à respecter ses engagements de notifications et à s'ouvrir aux accords commerciaux 
multilatéraux et régionaux. Nous saluons, à ce titre, les avancements réalisés par la Jorda nie dans 
la mise en œuvre de l'accord de facilitation des échanges ratifié en 2017 et les incitations et 
avantages offerts par la loi sur l'investissement à tous les intervenants sans discriminations.  
4.189.   La Tunisie se félicite des excellentes relations frater nelles de longue date établies avec la 
Jordanie, basées sur la confiance, le respect mutuel et l'engagement de promouvoir les échanges.  
4.190.   S'appuyant sur un cadre juridique étoffé de conventions et d'instruments légaux couvrant 
les différents aspects de la co opération bilatérale, nos deux pays œuvrent ensemble pour assurer la 
pérennité des consultations et d'échange de visites de Hauts niveau. Les dernières visites officielles, 
de Sa  Majesté le Roi  Abdallah  ben Al Hussein en Tunisie en mars 2019 et celle du fe u Président 
tunisien, Béji Caïd Essebsi, au Royaume en mars  2017, ont été des occasions idoines pour hausser 
la coopération bilatérale.  
4.191.   Le suivi du développement de la coopération est assuré par la haute commission mixte 
tuniso -jordanienne, qui tiendra sa dixième session à Amman durant la période du 
27 au 29 novembre  2023, et qui connaitra à sa marge l'organisation de la Semaine des produits 
tunisiens.  
4.192.   Par ailleurs, et dans le cadre du dynamisme accru de la participation des femmes 
jordaniennes dans l'écon omie, une délégation de femmes d'affaires tunisiennes pionnières au 
Maghreb Arabe a rendu visite à la Jordanie en mars  2023. Plusieurs participations à des évènements 
organisés dans les deux pays pour la promotion des échanges ont également été enregistrée s ces 
dernières années.  
4.193.   Par conséquent et malgré les répercussions résultant de la pandémie, les échanges 
commerciaux entre les deux pays ont connu une augmentation de plus de 60% en 2022 pour 
avoisiner les 40  millions  d'USD, et les deux pays sont détermi nés à renforcer et à consolider cette 
coopération dans tous les domaines d'intérêt commun, tels que le tourisme, l'agriculture et les 
technologies.  
4.194.   Avant de conclure, nous tenons à féliciter notre frère l'Ambassadeur Walid  Obeidat, ainsi que 
son excellente  équipe, pour l'engagement actif dans les activités de l'OMC et de notre Groupe arabe.  
4.195.   Nous souhaitons, enfin, à la Jordanie un examen très fructueux de leurs politiques 
commerciales.  
INDIA  
4.196.   At the outset, we join other delegations and extend our deepest  condolences to Morocco 
over the l ast devastating earthquake.   
4.197.   I would like to extend a very warm welcome to the delegation of Jordan led by 
H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply , and Minister of Labour . WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
- 29 - 
 
  India is pleased to  be a part of the  third Trade Policy Review of Jordan today. My delegation would 
further, like to commend the Government of Jordan , the Permanent Mission of Jordan in Geneva led 
by H.E. Mr Walid  Obeidat Ambassador, Permanent Representative to the WTO , and the WTO 
Secretariat for their comprehensive reports , and would also thank the discussant Ambassador 
H.E. Mr Omar  Zniber of Morocco  for his insightful remarks.  
4.198.   India enjoys warm relations with Jordan, regular high -level exchanges at Head of State, 
Head of Government and Ministerial level, have laid out a robust road map for strengthening 
partnership between our two countries. India and Jordan enjoy a multifaceted relationship as is 
evident through various  institutional dialogue mechanisms, in the fields of science and technology, 
business and investment, as well as the Trade and Economic Joint Committee.  
4.199.   Over the years, bilateral trade has grown rapidly despite global economic downturn with 
India emerging as Jordan 's fourth  largest trading partner in 2022. In 2022 -23, India -Jordan bilateral 
trade was valued at all time high of US D 4.425  billion recording an exceptional growth of 63% over 
last year. India's exports to Jordan stand at US D 2,135  million with an annual growth of 140%. 
A number of Indian compa nies have invested in Jordan, including in the area  of garments, chemicals 
and fertilizers. Educational and Cultural exchanges further enhance people to people interactions 
including training and capacity building efforts through ITEC and ICCR scholarships . Our interaction 
with Jordan in multilateral fora has fostered better understanding on mutual concerns and priorities.  
4.200.   During the period under review, Jordan has been negatively impacted by a range of external 
geo-political stresses, COVID -19 pandemic and  consequent global economic crisis. However, despite 
these challenges, the Jordanian economy has demonstrated a comeback and an upward growth in 
real GDP from 2.2%, in 2021, driven by supportive fiscal and monetary policies, to an estimated 
2.5% and 2.7% i n 2022 and 2023 respectively.  
4.201.   As noted in the Secretariat Report, during the review period, some trade -related laws or 
other legal instruments have been issued, amended , or revised like customs procedures, import 
prohibitions, restrictions, and licensing,  standards and technical requirements, sanitary and 
phytosanitary requirements, IPRs to name a few. Further, my delegation is happy to note that in 
October  2020, Jordan launched its Economic Priorities Program 2021 -2023 with the aim of enabling 
the private  sector to create jobs for Jordanians; stimulating local and foreign investments; and 
increasing national exports of goods and services. We also note that in June  2022, Jordan's Economic 
Modernization Vision was announced, aiming to enhance, over a 10 -year period, growth and quality 
of life by creating 1  million new jobs; improve Jordan's ranking on global competitiveness, 
environment, prosperity, and sustainability indexes; and expand into high value -added services and 
industrial sectors.  
4.202.   Jordan continues  to take make strides towards strengthening its economy, make its trade 
regime more resilient, transparent and predictable however, high unemployment rate, stagnant 
productivity growth, labour market imbalances, and reliance on a few industries pose challe nges 
that need to be addressed.  
4.203.   We are committed to unleashing the full potential of our bilateral trade, investment and 
development partnership for the benefit of our two peoples. With these words, my delegation would 
like to wish Jordan a successful Tra de Policy Review.  
MAROC  
4.204.   Qu'il me soit permis de remercier les délégations qui ont bien voulu exprimer leur solidarité 
et compassion suite au violent séisme ayant endeuillé mon pays. Nous souhaitons la bienvenue à 
M. le Ministre Youssef  Al-Shamali  et aux membres de sa délégation et exprimons notre gratitude au 
gouvernement Jordanien et au Secrétariat de l'OMC pour leurs rapports pertinents et à 
l'Ambassadeur Walid  Obeidat et son équipe pour leur constante coopération.  
4.205.   Nos remerciements vont égaleme nt au présentateur S.E.  M. l'Ambassadeur Omar  Zniber 
pour son rapport très instructif sur les principaux indicateurs macroéconomiques, les potentialités, 
et atouts de la Jordanie, mais aussi sur certains défis auxquels ce pays frère est confronté, dans une  
conjoncture mondiale complexe et compliquée.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.206.   Le Maroc considère la Jordanie comme un partenaire commercial important au sein de la 
région. Nos deux pays partagent un engagement commun en faveur de la promotion du commerce 
international, basé sur des règle s équitables, transparentes et dans le respect des engagements pris 
au sein de l'OMC.  
4.207.   Les relations maroco -jordaniennes sont ancrées dans l'histoire et bénéficient d'un soutien 
constant au très haut niveau et dans tous les domaines, en témoigne les visites  d'amitié et de travail 
de Sa  Majesté  le Roi Mohammed  VI en Jordanie, ainsi que celles effectuées par Sa  Majesté 
le Roi Abdallah  II au Maroc, sanctionnées par des avancées qualitatives dans nos relations 
bilatérales, encadrées à ce jour, par plus de 115 in struments juridiques touchant différents secteurs, 
notamment l'industrie, le commerce, l'agriculture, le tourisme, l'énergie, les mines, les finances, le 
transport aérien, la navigation maritime et les douanes, etc.  
4.208.   Pour dynamiser davantage cette coopérati on sur le plan commercial, un premier accord de 
libre-échange entre le Maroc et la Jordanie a été signé en 1998 et à l'issu duquel un conseil d'affaires 
maroco -jordanien a été créé.  
4.209.   Le Maroc et la Jordanie sont également signataires de l'Accord d'Agadir a vec l'Egypte et la 
Tunisie, visant à créer une zone de libre -échange, en perspective d'une zone méditerranéenne de 
libre-échange.  
4.210.   La Jordanie fait partie également des principaux partenaires commerciaux arabes du Maroc. 
Les deux pays jouissent d'un potentiel considérable ainsi que d'un environnement d'investissement 
encourageant permettant de diversifier le partenariat économique, soutenir et développer l'échange 
de biens et services, mais aussi d'accroitre le volume des investissements dans divers s ecteurs de 
production dans un cadre positif gagnant -gagnant.  
4.211.   Le Forum d'investissement Maroc -Jordanie tenu à Amman, le 13  janvier  2020 a permis 
d'aboutir à des recommandations visant le renforcement de la coopération économique entre les 
deux pays et la st ructuration du Conseil d'Affaires Maroc -jordanien à travers la création de 
sous-comités sectoriels (agriculture; agro -industrie; tourisme; finance) ainsi que la suppression des 
visas facilitant la circulation des opérateurs économiques entre les deux pays.   
4.212.   En outre, L'établissement d'une connexion aérienne en avril  2019 entre Casablanca et 
Amman a permis de développer l'activité touristique et économique entre le Maroc et la Jordanie et 
de faciliter le rapprochement des deux pays.  
4.213.   A cet égard, il serait o pportun de capitaliser sur les potentialités de coopération offertes dans 
le domaine maritime par les deux ports d'Al  Aqaba en Jordanie et Tanger -Med au Maroc, ce qui 
donnerai une impulsion aux échanges commerciaux bilatéraux qui ne seraient que mutuelleme nt 
bénéfiques pour les deux pays et faciliteraient l'intégration économique et le commerce entre le 
Moyen  Orient et l'Afrique.  
4.214.   Par ailleurs, Il convient de noter avec satisfaction les efforts consentis par la Jordanie pour 
favoriser davantage l'ouverture d e son économie à travers notamment la mise à jour de son cadre 
législatif et institutionnel en matière d'investissement, notamment par l'entrée en vigueur de la 
loi n° 21 de 2022 sur le climat de l'investissement et la promulgation du Règlement n°  7 de 202 3 
sur l'environnement de l'investissement.  
4.215.   De surcroit, et en sus de la zone économique spéciale d'Al  Aqaba située au carrefour de trois 
continents qui attire de nombreux investisseurs, la Jordanie possède de nombreux atouts et 
potentialités notamment ses  10 zones industrielles de qualifications dans lesquelles les investisseurs 
qui y sont installés sont exemptés de taxes et ont un accès direct à d'autres marchés internationaux.  
4.216.   Les choix de la Jordanie en termes de transition énergétique est aussi un exe mple dans la 
région, puisque la contribution des énergies renouvelables à la production d'électricité avoisine 
les 30% et le Royaume œuvre à atteindre 50% d'ici 2030.  
4.217.   Le Maroc salue également les réformes entreprises par la Jordanie en matière de facilitat ion 
des échanges, notamment les mesures visant à simplifier les procédures douanières et à réduire les 
obstacles techniques au commerce.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  4.218.   Ces actions sont essentielles pour stimuler les échanges commerciaux et renforcer 
l'économie jordanienne qui a fait mo ntre d'une résilience remarquable grâce à une réaction prompte, 
et une maitrise exemplaire de l'inflation dans un contexte marqué par les retentissements du 
COVID -19 et l'instabilité de l'environnement régional.  
4.219.   Aussi, nous encourageons la Jordanie à persé vérer dans ses efforts visant à promouvoir la 
transparence et à garantir la prévisibilité de son environnement commercial. Cela renforcera la 
confiance des investisseurs et des partenaires commerciaux internationaux.  
4.220.   Pour conclure, je tiens à réaffirmer le  soutien du Maroc à la Jordanie dans ses efforts visant 
à promouvoir une politique commerciale ouverte, transparente et inclusive.  
4.221.   Nous sommes convaincus que la Jordanie continuera à jouer un rôle constructif au sein de 
l'OMC, comme elle l'a fait depuis so n adhésion en 2000, contribuant ainsi au renforcement du 
système commercial multilatéral.  
4.222.   Nous souhaitons à la délégation jordanienne un examen réussi.  
PAKISTAN  
4.223.   At the outset, let me offer our condolences to H.E.  Ambassador Omar  Zniber for the 
devastating  earthquake in Morocco.  
4.224.   Pakistan appreciates the opportunity to participate at this third Trade Policy Review of 
Jordan. We warmly welcome the delegation of Jordan led by H.E.  Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali 
Minister of Industry, Trade, and Supply , and Minist er of Labour . We w ould also like  to thank the  
Secretariat for their report and all the hard work to allow the conduct of this Trade Policy Review . 
4.225.   Pakistan wishes to commend the turnaround of the economic contraction that Jordan faced, 
and the various refo rms carried out by the Jordanian Government ranging from fiscal reforms to 
customs reforms including facilitating trade and the business environment. The positive average 
growth rate during the period under review is testimony to the efforts the Government has put in to 
ensure growth while addressing various challenges both from w ithin the region as well as the global 
challenges like COVID -19 pandemic, climate change and regional conflicts.  
4.226.   Jordan has made impressive  strides in improving its business climate and is among the 
top 10 global improvers in the World  Bank's 2020 busines s rankings. The three major reforms 
include : the introduction of a new secured transactions law, amendments to the insolvency law, and 
the launch of a modern and notice -based collateral registry which allows financial institutions to 
function more efficien tly, and this is something other developing countries can emulate  in order to 
improve the access to capital . 
4.227.   We also wish to commend Jordan for its the Economic Modernization Vision which will not 
only address the economic growth challenges but would also address the climate change issues . It 
will not be out of place to particularly mention the Investment Law No.  21 of 2022 promulgated 
under this modernization vision, which aims to provide a supportive environment for existing 
investments and attract fresh foreign investments , this has been reflect ed in an increase of 
investments and investment growth rate of over 82% in 2022 which has helped economic 
advancement, job creation , and overall economic growth.  
4.228.   Just like Pakistan , Jordan's economy is highly depe ndent on services sector, and even the 
services sector, just like in Pakistan, does not have a very high level of complexity which actually 
makes it vulnerable to economic shocks and challenges. In order to build resilience in the economy, 
it is very impor tant to have a strong manufacturing base, and to have that strong manufacturing 
base the country needs policy space to grow its industry. In order to gains this policy space, we 
would not mind Jordan to continue its support in seeking special and different ial treatment for 
developing countries and continue its efforts together with other countries in seeking that essential 
policy space that is necessary to build resilient economy in terms of external and internal shocks.  
4.229.   Pakistan and Jordan have a strong r elationship  which have developed  over the years and 
goes well beyond trade. We have a very healthy with Jordan, but there are more opportunities where WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  both countries can leverage their endowments in terms of inputs to economic growth in order to 
create mor e value. Hence, we can rely on the availability on our national endowments as well as 
capacity capabilities to work together.  
4.230.   We would also like to commend the active role that is played by the Jordanian Mission in 
Geneva led by H .E. Ambassador Walid  Obeidat, especially in coordinating, mediating , and 
safeguarding the diverse interests of the Asian  Group of developing countries at the WTO.  
4.231.   In the end, Pakistan wishes Jordan a successful Trade Policy Review and offer its best wishes 
in their implementation  of its Economic Modernization Vision.  
UNITED  ARAB  EMIRATES  
4.232.   On behalf of the delegation of the United  Arab Emirates, I would like to express a very warm 
welcome to the honourable delegation of Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan chaired by 
H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, and Minister of Labour. 
Our thanks also go to H.E.  Mr Omar  Zniber, Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Morocco 
to the WTO for his valuable contribution as a discussant as well as for his comprehensi ve and 
enlightening remarks.  
4.233.   In spite of the regional instability and geopolitical challenges, to say nothing about the health 
crisis of COVID -19 pandemic and its impact on the Jordanian economy, the Kingdom has made 
commendable efforts to maintain resilie nce through, among others, implementing the Jordan's 
Economic Modernization Vision 2023 -2025. Jordan has undertaken an economic reform process 
aiming at further liberalization in conformity with the WTO rulebook.  
4.234.   These reform measures are mainly focused on  reducing tariff, eliminating trade barriers, and 
attracting foreign investments. Of course, challenges ahead are still looming, but the Government 
of Jordan is still confident that it will certainly achieve the ultimate objectives.  
4.235.   Let me also, before I c onclude, take this opportunity to pay tribute to H.E.  Mr Walid  Obeidat, 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative to the WTO and his team for his commitment and hard 
work, in particular for the work achieved as a coordinator for the Asian Group for Developin g 
Countries.  
4.236.   In conclusion, I wish the distinguished delegation of Jordan a fruitful discussion ahead and 
a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
QATAR  
4.237.   Tout d'abord, je voudrais exprimer mes condoléances au Maroc et au peuple marocain pour 
le séisme dévastateur.  
4.238.   C'est un grand plaisir pour la délégation de l'État du Qatar que de participer au troisième 
examen de la politique et des pratiques commerciales  de la Jordanie et je souhaite chaleureusement 
la bienvenue à S.E.  M. Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, ministre de l'Industrie, du commerce et de 
l'approvisionnement   du Royaume hachémite de Jordanie, ainsi qu'à l'ensemble de la délégation 
jordanienne, dont les e fforts déployés sont très visibles dans les rapports et la déclaration. Nous 
tenons également à vous remercier M.  le Président, Ambassadeur Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel, ainsi 
que le Secrétariat et l'intervenant pour sa remarquable présentation.  
4.239.   L'État du Qatar  souhaite aussi joindre sa voix à celle de la délégation du 
Royaume  d'Arabie  saoudite et sa déclaration prononcée au nom du Groupe arabe.  
4.240.   Le Qatar et la Jordanie partagent des relations politiques et économiques solides et à 
plusieurs niveaux. Nos pays son t des partenaires solides dans le domaine du commerce et 
d'investissement, avec une coordination et une coopération dans le cadre de la Ligue des États 
arabes, en particulier pour les questions liées à la Grande zone arabe de libre -échange.  
4.241.   Nous souhaitons  féliciter la Jordanie pour sa Vision 2030 de la modernisation économique, 
annoncée sous le patronage de Sa Majesté le Roi Abdullah II, qui vise à renforcer, sur une période WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
- 33 - 
 
  de 10  ans, la croissance et la qualité de vie en créant 1  million de nouveaux empl ois, en améliorant 
le classement de la Jordanie dans les indices mondiaux de compétitivité, d'environnement, de 
prospérité et de durabilité, et en se développant dans les secteurs des services et de l'industrie à 
forte valeur ajoutée.  
4.242.   Pour la période consi dérée, qui a été marquée par de multiples chocs économiques tels que 
la pandémie de COVID -19, la déstabilisation des supply chains  et l'augmentation des pressions de 
l'inflation, le Qatar tient à saluer les efforts déployés par la Jordanie pour garder sa r ésilience et 
mettre en œuvre des politiques commerciales visant à promouvoir la croissance économique, à 
attirer les investissements étrangers et à renforcer sa position sur le marché mondial. 
Collectivement, le volume global des investissements directs ét rangers en Jordanie a connu un taux 
de croissance impressionnant de plus de 82% par rapport aux niveaux enregistrés au cours de la 
période COVID -19 et de l'année précédente.  
4.243.   Selon le rapport de la Banque mondiale sur la sécurité alimentaire, la Jordanie es t le pays 
arabe le moins touché par l'inflation des prix des denrées alimentaires. La Jordanie vise à renforcer 
la sécurité alimentaire, comme le prouve le lancement récent de la stratégie nationale de sécurité 
alimentaire 2021 -2030 et du plan national pou r l'agriculture durable 2022 -2025. Ces initiatives 
stratégiques s'alignent sur les directives de Sa Majesté le Roi  Abdullah  II, visant à positionner la 
Jordanie comme un centre régional pour la sécurité alimentaire.  
4.244.   Le Qatar souhaite également rappeler que  la Jordanie a toujours soutenu les efforts visant 
à renforcer le système commercial multilatéral fondé sur des règles et à garantir que l'OMC reste 
pertinente pour l'avenir.  
4.245.   La Jordanie a participé activement aux négociations de l'OMC pour traiter des que stions 
importantes telles que les subventions à la pêche et est également activement impliquée dans les 
discussions en cours à l'OMC sur les questions d'avenir.  
4.246.   En conclusion, nous souhaitons à la délégation de la Jordanie beaucoup de succès pour son 
troisième examen de la politique commerciale.  
KAZAKHSTAN  
4.247.   Kazakhstan welcomes the delegation of the Kingdom of Jordan, led by H.E.  Mr Yousef 
Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply , and Minister of Labour. We express 
our gratitude to the Gover nment of Jordan for their informative Report and statement. We also thank 
Ambassador Omar  Zniber  for his insightful comments as a discussant and the WTO Secretariat for 
its comprehensive Report.  
4.248.   We have the pleasure to observe and state that Jordan, since its last Trade Policy Review, 
pursued a sound economic performance and further enhanced its trade openness. We commend the 
Government of Jordan for implementing an ambitious reform agenda to further strengthen trade, 
investment, business environment and in frastructure development. Particularly, we appreciate the 
ongoing comprehensive reforms initiated by Jordan under the Economic Modernization Vision 
announced in June  2022 with a view of creating 1  million new jobs, improving Jordan's ranking on 
global comp etitiveness, environment, prosperity and sustainability indexes and expanding into high 
value added services in the industrial sectors.  
4.249.   We recognize Jordan's efforts to improve the environment for foreign investors by reforming 
domestic investment laws. Th us, we welcome Jordan's enactment of the revised investment law 
in 2022, which has a significant impact on the country's investment landscape as it creates a more 
favourable environment for investors by streamlining the process of setting up and running 
businesses and promote transparency and predictability in the investment process. In this regard, 
we are pleased to see that Jordan has been recognized as one of the top  10 global improvers in the 
World  Bank's 2020 business rankings as a result of its signif icant progress in improving its business 
climate. Notably, Jordan is one of four countries from the Middle  East and North Africa region that 
accounted for almost half of the region's reforms.  
4.250.   We also welcome the significant progress in promoting women empo werment in Jordan, 
achieved through the adopted executive plan for the National Strategy for Women for 2023 -2025. WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  This plan serves as a crucial guiding document with the primary objectives of bolstering an equitable 
economic participation of Jordanian wome n, cultivating and enabling business environment and 
effectively advancing the nation's economic progress and sustainable development.  
4.251.   From the WTO perspective, we welcome Jordan's strong commitment to the multilateral 
trading system and the rules of the W TO as a means to curb harmful protectionist measures, reduce 
barriers to global trade and enhance market access conditions.  
4.252.   We also look forward to reviewing Jordan's notifications on agriculture, IP and market access 
in accordance with its transparency ob ligations at the WTO.  
4.253.   In conclusion, we would like to congratulate the delegation of Jordan and the WTO 
Secretariat for the hard work and efforts that went into preparing for this TPR. We also would like 
to express our appreciation to Ambassador Walid  Obeidat and his team in Geneva.  
4.254.   We wish the delegation of Jordan every success for their third Trade Policy Review.  
EGYPT1 
4.255.   At the outset, I would like to extend warm welcome to the distinguished delegation of Jordan, 
led by H.E.  Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali , Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, and Minister of 
Labour, and congratulate them for conducting the third Review of the country 's trade policies and 
practices. We wish the delegation of Jordan all the success in this endeavour. My delegation also 
thanks the WTO Secretariat for its Report, as well as H.E. Ambassador Omar  Zniber of Morocco for 
his insightful comments as discussant.  
4.256.   Egypt commends the progress achieved by the Government of Jordan during the period 
under review, despite the enormo us global and regional challenges in the last few years. The country 
managed to achieve several important reforms in the fields of investment, tariffs , and woman 
empowerment, which will have significant impact on Jordan 's sustainable development and econom ic 
growth.  
4.257.   Among these reforms, the Government of Jordan has implemented the "National Strategy 
for Women 2020 -2025" to foster woman empowerment in economic activities  and reduce 
unemployment rates among young woman workers. It has also introduced the Gove rnment 's 
Economic Priorities Program 2021 -23 (EPP) which aims at stimulating foreign and local investments, 
increasing employment and increasing exports in priority sectors.  
4.258.   Furthermore, the Government of Jordan launched the "Economic Modernization Vision 
2033",  aiming to enhance, over a 10 -year period, growth and quality of life by creating 1 million 
new jobs; improving Jordan's ranking on global competitiveness, environment, prosperity, and 
sustainability indexes; as well as expanding into high value -added service and industrial sectors. It 
has also created a new Ministry of Investment in 2021 and implemented a new Investment 
Environment Law in 2022 to enhance investment environment  and attract more FDIs.  
4.259.   Moreover, the Government of Jordan is implementing critical fiscal structural reforms, 
especially through a major customs reform over 2022 -2028, which is expected to reduce tax evasion 
and corruption, and to lower customs revenue by 0.3% of GDP in the near term due to a lower 
average tariff. In this regard , we would like to commend the efforts made by Jordan to decrease the 
simple average applied MFN tariff  from 10.2% in 2015 to 4% in 2023. We also commend Jordan for 
reforming its tax and incentive system and for launching several national plans, including its first 
"Climate Change National Adaptation Plan " in 2021, the "National Agricultural Development Strategy 
2020-2025", the "National Water Strategy 2023 -2040", as well as the "Master Strategy for the 
Energy Sector 2020 -2030". 
4.260.   Egypt shares excellent and brotherly relationship with Jordan at all levels and in all sectors. 
In this regard, I would like to seize this opportunity to express my deep appreciation to 
 
1The following statements were delivered during the second day of the meeting.   WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  H.E. Ambassador  Walid Obeidat for his professionalism, friendship , and excellent coordination in all 
the work conduct in various international organizations in Geneva.  
4.261.   Finally, I wish the delegation of Jordan all the best in their TPR and Egypt aligns itself with 
the statement deliver ed by the Arab  Group.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  I would like to express my sincere appreciation to your Excellency Ambassador Saqer Almoqbel 
and to the distinguished discussant, H.E.  Mr Omar  Zniber.  
5.2.  I am extremely pl eased and grateful for the positive and constructive feedback we received 
during our third TPR meeting s. 
5.3.  On behalf of the Jordanian delegation, I extend sincere gratitude to all Ambassadors and 
distinguished delegates who participated in these meetings.  
5.4.  In addition, we highly appreciate the interest of the Members, submitting written questions in 
advance or presenting queries during the meetings. We are pleased to confirm that we have already 
furnished provided comprehensive written responses to all questi ons submitted by WTO Members.  
5.5.  During the Wednesday meeting, we have attentively taken notes of areas of concern 
highlighted by Members. My delegation and I wish to provide additional clarifications of the main 
concerns raised, presently as follows:  
Regard ing notifications compliance  
5.6.  We would like to acknowledge Members' encouragement in the notifications submitted by 
Jordan, and reiterate our strong commitment to transparency and engagement.  
5.7.  Jordan will be exerting its best efforts to submit the outstandin g notifications in a timely 
manner.  
Regarding government procurement  
5.8.  We welcome all the acknowledgements from Members on the recent developments in the 
governmental procurement measures. We also appreciate some Members ' encouragement of Jordan 
to participa te in the GPA Agreement. Currently, Jordan will remain as an observer in the GPA, while 
continue assessing our readiness to participate in the Agreement in consultation with all stockholders 
including the privet sector.  
For the Fisher ies Subsidies Agreemen t ratification  
5.9.  We already started the process of harmonizing the national legislation with the Agreement in 
consultation with all relevant stakeholders. We look forward to working closely with the WTO 
Members to ensure a timely ratification and successful implementation of the Agreement. I hope 
that you agree with us that the implementation requires technical assistance and capacity building 
to help developing least -empowered country members with implementation.  
Implications of recent restructuring of tarif fs and tax and investment reform  
5.10.  We appreciate Members ' acknowledgement of the substantial progress Jordan made in 
simplifying tariff structures and lowering MFN rates during the review period, and the reforms 
introduced to the investment environment regul ations and procedures.  
5.11.  Although, its early to evaluate the impact of these reforms at sectorial level, it is worth 
mentioning that, already in 2022, we had a notable increase, around 30%, in our foreign trade of 
goods and 56% in services as well as a subst antive growth of FDI.  
Women 's economic empowerment  
5.12.  We will continue to undertake measures and actions to enhance women participation in the 
labour market and political activities based on the executive plan of the National Women's Strategy 
for 2023 -2025, including initiatives and projects, which intersect with the executive programs of the 
modernization pathways, representing guidance for policymakers and donors on women issues.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  Jordan Economic Modernization Vision 2033  
5.13.  We took note of Members' interest in Jordan Economic Modernization Vision 2033. The Vision 
will be implemented in three phases.  
5.14.  Prior to the end of each phase, the roadmap will be reviewed to evaluate progress and the 
need to reprioritize actions in colla boration with stakeholders.  
5.15.  The Government 's commitment to pursue the Vision is reflected in its executive program me 
(2023 -2025) which includes initiatives to enhance growth and quality of life by creating jobs, 
improving Jordan's ranking on global competi tiveness, attracting foreign investment, and expanding 
the high value -added service and industrial sectors.  
Closing remarks  
5.16.  To conclude, we highly value all interventions and constructive feedback received from 
Members and the acknowledgement and appreciation of the challenges faced by Jordan due to 
regional and international crises and the burdens on our limited resources especially hosting 
refugees, who currently represent one third of our population.  
5.17.  The Government of Jordan appreciates the continued support provided by Member countries 
and the international community, which helps Jordan in its efforts to sustain its open economy and 
free and fair -trade exchange amidst the challenges.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.18.  Permettez -moi, tout d'abord, de  vous transmettre les excuses de M.  l'Ambassadeur 
Omar  Zniber, qui, hors de Genève, n'a pas pu se joindre à vous.  
5.19.  Et, prenant la parole en son nom, je tiens à remercier toutes les délégations pour l'intérêt 
qu'elles ont bien voulu porter à ce troisième exa men de la politique commerciale du Royaume 
Hachémite de la Jordanie.  
5.20.  Leurs contributions  majeures furent significatives à la réussite de cet examen.  
5.21.  Bien évidemment, grâce aussi à la coopération, l'interaction, et l'engagement de la délégation 
jordanienne  ici présente.  
5.22.  Au demeurant, les 140 questions reçues par ce pays, reflètent ce grand intérêt porté pour les 
politiques économiques et commerciales et les réformes entreprises par la Jordanie au cours de la 
période concernée.  
5.23.  De surcroît, je tiens à félic iter S.E.  M. le Ministre Yousef  Al-Shamali et tous les membres de 
la délégation jordanienne pour leur disponibilité et réactivité, contribuant amplement à la réussite 
de cet exercice fondamental de l'OMC.  
5.24.  Les réponses fournies au préalable par la délégati on jordanienne à la totalité des questions 
écrites ne peuvent que corroborer l'engagement de la Jordanie en tant qu'acteur actif de notre 
Organisation et sa contribution dans la promotion d'un système commercial international équitable, 
transparent et ouve rt. 
5.25.  Revenant au déroulé de cet examen, et au cours de notre première réunion de 
mercredi  27 septembre, 24  délégations au total ont apporté leurs précieuses contributions, pour 
mettre en évidence les efforts très appréciés consentis par le gouvernement jord anien au cours des 
dernières années, pour mettre en œuvre des politiques commerciales et économiques, favorisant la 
croissance économique, attirant davantage d'investissement étranger, et susceptibles de renforcer 
le positionnement du pays sur le marché mo ndial, naturellement, en gardant à l'esprit le respect des 
normes et règles de l'OMC.  
5.26.  Une convergence de vue a été également dégagée concernant les capacités de résilience du 
pays, malgré les multiples chocs exogènes auxquels il a été confronté pendant plu s d'une décennie.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
- 38 - 
 
  5.27.  Ainsi, dans leurs interventions, les Membres ont mis l'accent sur la rude conjoncture, pendant 
la période concernée par ce troisième examen, marquée par l'impact du COVID -19, l'instabilité de 
l'environnement géopolitique régional, l'affl ux massif des réfugiés vers la Jordanie (1.3 millions de 
réfugiés ) et tout récemment, la crise énergétique découlant de la situation en Ukraine et ses 
conséquences sur la perturbation des chaînes d'approvisionnement et l'augmentation des tensions 
inflation nistes.  
5.28.  Ils ont également félicité la Jordanie, qui malgré ces contraintes, a su conserver la résilience 
de son économie, en maitrisant l'inflation à une moyenne raisonnable de 1,9% durant la période 
d'examen et maintenir un niveau positif de croissance du  PIB réel établie à 1,6%, grâce notamment 
à des mesures budgétaires et monétaires efficaces.  
5.29.  Les Membres ont également pris acte des réformes et politiques commerciales mises en 
œuvre par la Jordanie, lesquelles ont contribué de façon positive à stimuler s es perspectives 
économiques, à travers des stratégies sectorielles, notamment la Vision 2030 pour la modernisation 
économique, et d'autres touchant la réforme douanière  ; la modernisation du cadre des marchés 
publics  ; la réforme du système d'imposition  ; l'assainissement du climat de l'investissement  ; le 
développement agricole  ; la gestion du stress hydrique  ; la transition énergétique, et enfin, la 
stratégie nationale pour les femmes 2020 -2025.  
5.30.  Au cours de cet examen, certaines délégations, conscientes d es contraintes endogènes et 
exogènes, et les limites des ressources face à des priorités multiples, concurrentes et simultanées, 
comprennent, parfaitement, comment cela peut créer des difficultés pour le respect des obligations.  
5.31.  C'est pourquoi, des attent es ont été exprimées s'agissant des notifications à compléter et/ou 
actualiser, pour favoriser davantage de transparence et de la prévisibilité, qui à son tour facilite et 
promeut le commerce et l'investissement.  
5.32.  En outre, et en notant, avec satisfaction, les réponses exhaustives apportées par la délégation 
de la Jordanie, certains membres ont identifié des moyens créatifs et efficaces pour aider à gérer la 
charge de travail liée aux notifications, et j'encourage à les prendre dûment en considération, dans 
le cadre de la poursuite des efforts de modernisation et d'ouverture économique du pays.  
5.33.  D'autres défis subsistant ont retenu l'attention des Membres, que me permets, brièvement, 
de résumer comme suit:  
i) les restrictions à la propriété foncière et les exigences minimales de fonds propres;  
ii) les restrictions à la participation étrangère dans certains secteurs et de prohibitions à 
l'investissement étranger dans certains domaines;  
iii) les notifications en suspens, notamment concernant le secteur de l'agricultur e;  
iv) les restrictions et licences nécessaires à l 'importation de certains produits;  
v) l'autonomisation des femmes et leur participation à la vie économique (taux de chômage 
élevé parmi les femmes );  
vi) la poursuite de la digitalisation des procédures au niveau des marchés publics ; 
vii) la ratification de l 'accord portant sur les technologies de l 'information qui vise à réduire, 
voir supprimer les barrières douanières concernant les Technologies de l 'Information et 
de Communication;  
viii) l'implication dans des initiatives plurilatérales, notamment celle relative à la facilitation 
des investissements; ainsi que  
ix) l'acceptation de l 'accord relatif aux subventions à la pêche, processus déjà entamé par 
la Jordanie, comme a été souligné par M.  le Ministre lors de la première  journée.  
5.34.  J'ai tenté, tant que faire se peut, d'exposer brièvement les points saillants des interventions 
des Membres pendant la première journée de l'examen et cet exposé ne couvre nullement l'ensemble 
des points exprimés.  
5.35.  J'aimerais réitérer mes remerciements à la délégation jordanienne menée par 
S.E. M. le Ministre Yousef  Al-Shamali, pour le travail remarquable accompli dans le cadre de cet 
examen et les réponses fournies aux principaux points soulevés par les Membres, men ant à la 
réussite de cet exercice.  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  5.36.  Je souhaite le plein succès à la Jordanie dans ses efforts pour la concrétisation de la "Vision 
de modernisation économique 2030" visant à renforcer la croissance économique du pays et 
améliorer sa position dans les indic es mondiaux en matière de compétitivité, d'environnement, de 
prospérité et de durabilité.  
5.37.  En conclusion, je félicite la Jordanie pour ses contributions à l'OMC et pour sa résilience 
économique pendant la période concernée par cet examen.  
5.38.  Mes remerciements  vont également au Président de l'Organe des examens des politiques 
commerciales, S.E.  M. Saqer  Abdullah  Almoqbel, à S.E.  M. l'Ambassadeur Walid  Obeidat et son 
équipe à Genève, au Secrétariat pour le travail accompli, ainsi qu'aux traducteurs et à tous les  
Membres qui ont participé à cet examen.  
UNITED  STATES  
5.39.  We want to thank Minister Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali for his engagement and participation 
in this review. We would also like to take this opportunity to thank Ambassador Walid  Obeidat, and 
his team, and  in particular the team from capital here with us today. We appreciate all the effort  
that goes into a Review and all the internal coordination efforts required to respond to all the written 
questions, so we want to thank you for everything you have done t o make this review a success.  
5.40.  As noted in Day 1, since its last Review, Jordan has undertaken many initiatives to improve 
its business environment. In particular, the United  States welcomes the reforms to Jordan 's Customs 
laws as well as improvements it ha s made to its patent protection regime.   
5.41.  The United  States also joins other Members in commending Jordan 's efforts to improve the 
lives of its citizens, and particularly its promotion of the rights of women. We look forward to hearing 
of Jordan 's continue d progress in implementing programs such as the National Strategy for 
Women  2020-25, and in achieving its goals to increase the economic and political empowerment of 
women.  
5.42.  As we noted in Day 1, as Jordan continues to pursue economic reforms, increased 
transparency and predictability in administration of its trading regime will be important to attracting 
commercial engagement and foreign investment. Towards that goal, we encourage Jordan to 
improve its notification practices at the WTO.  
5.43.  We would like to c ommend Jordan for its overall support for WTO principles and its active 
engagement at the WTO, and would welcome working with Jordan on ongoing and future initiatives. 
As noted on Day  1, the United  States commends Jordan 's actions to implement its TFA comm itments 
and we stand ready to assist where possible in the implementation of any remaining commitments. 
We would also like to draw Jordan 's attention to two proposals the U.S. and other Members are 
supporting in the Trade Facilitation Committee.  
5.44.  Türkiye, C anada, Chinese  Taipei , and the Unit ed States recently circulated a communication 
within the Trade Facilitation Committee that focuses on facilitating humanitarian relief in emergency 
situations. We would welcome collaboration with Jordan as we continue to share experiences and 
build a knowledge base on how Trade Facilitation Agreement implementation can be used as a tool 
for disaster or pandemic preparedness, in particular ensuring that procedures are put in place before 
they are needed to enable the moveme nt of humanitarian goods in the event of crisis.    
5.45.  Likewise, the United  States recently circulated a communication in the TFC that highlights the 
role that robust implementation of the TFA can play in improving the safe, quick, and cost -effective 
movement of agricultural and food products to where they are needed.  We would also welcome 
collaboration from Jordan in this regard.  
5.46.  We support Jordan 's pursuit of negotiations to accede to the Plurilateral Agreement on 
Government Procurement and would welcome working with Jordan to advance that process.  
5.47.  The United  States is committed to reform of the WTO to make it more responsive to the needs 
of our s takeholders and more supportive of the policymaking that underpins how we all are adapting 
to the changing global landscape. We would welcome engagement from Jordan as we continue to WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  explore WTO reform, and in particular dispute settlement reform.  We encou rage Jordan 's 
participation in the informal Dispute Settlement Reform discussions as we pursue a system that 
meets the interests of all WTO Members.  
5.48.  We join other Members in applauding Jordan 's efforts towards ratification of the Fisheries 
Subsidies Agreem ent. The Fisheries Subsidies Agreement contains important disciplines on harmful 
fisheries subsidies, as well as enhanced transparency, but it can 't start contributing to the 
sustainability of our fisheries until it actually enters into force.  We encourage  Jordan to continue its 
efforts to ratify the Agreement and deposit its instrument of acceptance with the WTO.   
5.49.  As we noted on Wednesday, Jordan has demonstrated that integration with the international 
trading system has been and is an important part of it s overall growth strategy and that the WTO 
has been a key tool for this integration. We hope that this TPR process has been useful for your 
Government, not just from the perspective of self -examination of your trade policies, but also in 
how you see the WT O adding value to your domestic priorities and overall economic advancement. 
We urge Jordan to continue to fully participate in WTO initiatives that can help it achieve its goals 
as a member of the international trading community.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.50.  On behalf of the European  Union, I would first like to thank the delegation of Jordan led by 
Minister Al -Shamali, as well as Ambassador Mr  Walid  Obeidat and their respective teams, for their 
replies to our questions and providing additional information on Wednesday and this morning. We 
do not have any follow -up questions.  
5.51.  Like several Members, the EU commends Jordan for implementing several important reforms 
towards improving the trade and investment climate, as well as the economic empowerment of 
women. Several Members, including the EU, acknowledge Jordan's remarkable resilience in the 
difficult environment of several exogenous shocks. Jordan has been and remains in the frontline of 
the international response to the massive refugee crisis triggered by the conflict i n Syria. The EU 
will sustain its support to Jordan in that context until conditions allow for the safe, dignified and 
voluntary return of the refugees. Jordan can also count on the EU as it faces other complex 
consequences of the conflict.  
5.52.  As mentioned alr eady on the first day of this review, the EU and Jordan have a strong 
partnership and we will continue strengthening our relationship through the partnership priorities 
set for 2021 until 2027 that are intended to support the implementation of the EU -Jorda n Association 
Agreement. We will jointly identify suitable approaches to enhance our bilateral trade and investment 
relations, notably working together on SMEs, development, technology and know -how to strengthen 
bilateral and economic ties.  
5.53.  In line with t he EU Trade Policy Review communication and its engagement in sustainable 
investment facilitation initiatives, the EU welcomes the setting up of the EU -Jordan Investment 
Platform, which could serve as a forum for discussion and identification of potential investment 
projects.  
5.54.  In conclusion, the EU hopes that Jordan will take on board very few recommendations and 
suggestions by the WTO Members, including the accession to the GPA and joining plurilateral  
initiatives. And finally, on behalf of the EU, I would like to thank Jordan for its constructive 
engagement in this third Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 233 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  This third Trade Policy Review of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan was an  excellent 
opportunity for the Membership to understand Jordan's main achievements and challenges regarding 
its trade and related policies since its previous Review in 2015. I would like to thank the Jordanian 
delegation led by H .E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of Industry, Tra de and Supply, for 
its active and constructive commitment throughout the Review process. I would also like to thank 
H.E. Ambassador Omar  Zniber of Morocco, our discussant, for his comments, which have greatly 
contributed to our two -day discussion. More tha n 140  questions were submitted before the 
commencement of this meeting in addition to the comments and issues raised by the 25  delegations 
that took the floor during this review. Members greatly appreciated the written responses provided 
by Jordan and look  forward to receiving any outstanding replies within one month, at which time 
this review concludes.  
6.2.  Members praised the resilience of the Jordanian economy, which has recovered remarkably 
from the pandemic, with trade and tourism playing a key role in the  upturn. They also commended 
Jordan for maintaining forward -looking economic and social policies, taking into account equity, 
fairness, and sustainability when facing various challenges over the past years such as regional 
conflicts, refugee crisis, food s ecurity, and climate change. It was also indicated that Jordan 
considers women empowerment, further participation of the private sector in the economy and the 
implementation of its export strategy, as key elements to stimulate inclusive growth and broaden 
its economic base towards high -value industries.  
6.3.  Members strongly valued Jordan's constructive engagement in the WTO. Jordan indicated that 
WTO Membership has played a pivotal role in shaping its trade policies, fostering transparency, and 
facilitating int egration into the global economy. Jordan has also identified areas where technical 
assistance is needed from the WTO Secretariat to support its trade -related capacity and development 
efforts. Some Members looked forward to working closely with Jordan on jo int initiatives and other 
discussions to consider new trade issues. At the same time, some Members encouraged Jordan to 
consider joining the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement, and the Government 
Procurement Agreement. Members took note tha t Jordan has initiated the ratification process of the 
Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. Members appreciated Jordan commitments to enhance its 
transparency and notification record.  
6.4.  In general, Members commended Jordan for the steps taken during the review  period to 
streamline its trade and investment regimes and boost its digital economy. In particular, they 
appreciated Jordan's significant tariff reform with the aim of simplifying the tariff structure over the 
period 2022 -28 and welcomed the reduction in Jordan's simple average applied MFN tariff rate 
from 10.2% in 2015 to 4% in 2023. Members also praised Jordan for its ratification to the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement and adopting trade facilitation measures aimed at streamlining customs 
procedures, which reflect Jordan's commitments under the TFA.  
6.5.  Members acknowledged the recent modernization of Jordan's institutional and legal frameworks 
on investment in an effort to stimulate economic growth, reduce the cost of doing business and 
facilitate foreign parti cipation in the economy. In this regard, some Members called Jordan for further 
liberalize its investment regime so as to reap the benefits of participating in global value chains.  
6.6.  Regarding other trade -related measures, Members were of the view that effor ts to improve its 
patent protection regime, and its E -commerce Strategy 2023 -25 would have a positive impact on 
economic development, trade, investment, and innovation. In this regard, some Members requested 
additional information on certain aspects on Jor dan's trade regime, such as free zones and industrial 
states, and investment incentives, particularly in the Aqaba Special Economic Zone.  
6.7.  To conclude, let me once again thank the delegation of Jordan headed by 
H.E. Mr Yousef  Mahmoud  Al-Shamali, Minister of  Industry, Trade and Supply, the discussant, all 
delegations that participated and the Secretariat for achieving a successful third Trade Policy Review 
of Jordan.  
 
__________