WT/TPR/M/325  
13 January 2016  
(16-0217)  Page: 1/34  
Trade Policy Review Body 
17 and 19 November 2015   
 
  TRADE POLICY REVIEW 
JORDAN  
MINUTES OF THE MEETING 
Chairperson: H.E. Mr. Atanas Atanassov Paparizov (Bulgaria) 
CONTENTS 
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ....................................................... 2  
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE RE PRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN ...................................... 4  
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT ................................................................................ 7  
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS ........................................................................................ 11  
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF  JORDAN AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS ......... 29  
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAI RPERSON ......................................................... 33  
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies 
provided by Jordan are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/325/Add.1 and will be available online 
at http://www.wto.org/english/ tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
1.1.  The second Trade Policy Review of the Kingdom of Jordan was held on 17 and 
19 November 2015. The Chairperson H.E. Mr Atanas Atanassov Paparizov (Bulgaria) welcomed the delegation of the Kingdom of Jordan headed by H. E. Ms. Maha Ali, Minister of Industry, Trade and 
Supply; H.E. Ambassador Majali; the rest of the delegation from Amman; other colleagues from 
the Mission in Geneva; and the discussant, H. E. Ambassador Martin Eyjólfsson (Iceland). 
1.2.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of the Tr ade Policy Reviews and the main elements of 
the procedures for the meeting. The report by Jordan was contained in document WT/TPR/G/325 
and that of the WTO Secretariat in WT/TPR/S/325. 
1.3.  Questions by the following delegations had been  submitted in writing before the deadline of 
5.30 pm on 3 November 2015 and had been transm itted to Jordan: the EU; Australia; Canada; 
Brazil; Singapore; China; Mexico; and the Unit ed States. The following delegations submitted 
written questions after the deadline: the Russian Federation; Thailand; the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia; Argentina; and Turkey. These questions had also been transmitted to Jordan. 
1.4.  Jordan's trade policy remained relatively open despite the global economic crisis and regional 
challenges. The economy had been resilient to ex ternal shocks, growing at an average rate of 
3.5% during 2008-10. Growth had been driven by tourism, distribution, and related services, and 
to a lesser extent by mining and quarrying, construction, and financial services. However, 
geopolitical risks could affect future economic growth, particularly exports, tourism, and investors' confidence. Jordan's GDP per capita had increased to around US$5,300 in 2014, compared with US$3,700 in 2008. 
1.5.  Trade played a vital role in the economy as im ports and exports of goods and services were 
equivalent to 112% of GDP in 2014. Exports were highly concentrated on food, mining, and chemicals (fertilizers), while imports were less concentrated with the largest import category being 
fuels. Instability in the region impacted the tr ade performance of Jordan, and led to the loss of 
many of Jordan's traditional export markets.  
1.6.  The Chairperson was pleased to note that the Government and the Secretariat reports both 
underlined that Jordan played an active role in the multilateral trading system, to which it attached 
great importance. In particular, Jordan had notified its Category A commitment under the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Jordan had also submitted its instrument of acceptance of the Protocol amending the TRIPS Agreement in August 2008, and in 2013 it had notified the adoption of 
implementing legislation incorporating the Paragraph 6 System into domestic law. 
1.7.  During the period under review, Jordan had also  strengthened its bilateral and regional ties. 
The RTAs with Turkey and with Canada had come into force during this period (in 2011 and 2012, 
respectively). Jordan had free trade agreements with PAFTA, EFTA, EU, Singapore, and the United 
States, and was negotiating one with Mexico. 
1.8.  At the last TPR of Jordan, Members had raised questions on many issues, some of which had 
been repeated this time by different delegations.  These included, among others, its export subsidy 
regime, government procurement regime, customs procedures, import prohibitions and licensing, price controls, energy, and services. 
1.9.  In the context of this TPR, the Chairperson noted that the Government had taken initiatives 
in many areas such as: 
 To simplify business procedures and improve investment climate, a number of trade and 
investment related legislation had been revised or amended, including the Competition Law, 
Customs Law, Investment Law, Income Tax Law,  and the Public-Private-Partnership Law. In 
particular, under the Investment Law of 2014 all the government agencies responsible for different aspects of investment had been brought under one agency – the Jordan 
Investment Commission.  
 Customs procedures had changed significantly with the introduction of a single-window 
facility starting in 2009, the full implem entation of ASYCUDA WORLD in 2010, and WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  improvements to the system of  preferred operators. The time and cost of importing and 
exporting had been reduced.  
 Although the State still played a significant role in the economy, and a number of 
undertakings remained under public ownership, the Public-Private-Partnership Law had been 
promulgated in 2014, aiming at encouraging the private sector to participate in economic 
development. 
 Jordan had made changes to its Competition Law in 2011, which now applied to all 
enterprises, including SOEs. It had also issued a new energy policy focusing on diversifying 
the energy mix.  
1.10.  However, through their written questions for this meeting, Members suggested that some 
areas may need further attention, such as: 
 Government procurement in Jordan was regulated under different legislation and by 
different agencies. Many Members were interested  in Jordan's plan to reform its government 
procurement regime, and looked forward to its accession to the plurilateral Agreement on 
Government Procurement. 
 Amendments to Jordan's TBT legislation on standards and technical regulations had been 
waiting for approval. About half of Jordanian standards were equivalent to international 
standards. Members were interested to know  the time-frame for the new legislation on 
standards, and any progress made to increase the utilization and adoption of international standards in Jordan.  
 Although foreign and domestic investors were treated equally, equity restrictions remained 
for foreign investment in certain sectors, and foreign investment was prohibited in a number 
o f  a r e a s .  M e m b e r s  w i s h e d  t o  k n o w  i f  t h e  G o v e r n m e n t  h a d  a n y  p l a n  t o  r e d u c e  f o r e i g n  investment restrictions. 
1.11.  The Chairperson noted that delegations referred in their questions to these and many other 
issues and he looked forward to hearing comments from Jordan. 
1.12.  He closed his introductory remarks by wishing Jordan a very successful second Trade Policy 
Review. He looked forward to its active engagement in this TPR. 
1.13.  He wished to inform Members that the podcast of the meeting could be accessed on the 
Members' website after the first day of the meeting. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN (H.E. MS. MAHA ALI) 
2.1.  Before we start, Mr Chairman, please allow me to convey our deep condolences to the 
Government of France and its people. Jordan condem ns the horrific terrorist attacks against France 
and expresses solidarity and support to the Gove rnment of France in these difficult times. 
2.2.  It is a great honour for me and my delegation to be amongst you all within the second Trade 
Policy Review of Jordan. 
2.3.  I would like to start by expressing my deepest gratitude to the WTO Secretariat for giving me 
this opportunity to present my country's trade polic ies, and provide all Members the chance to gain 
further insights into the economic developments in Jordan.  
2.4.  I would like to thank you as well as our discussant, H.E. Ambassador Martin Eyjólfsson and 
the WTO Secretariat, particularly the Trade Policy Review Division for their efforts in preparing the 
report for this review. I would also like to extend our warmest welcome to the Ambassadors, as 
well as distinguished delegates for their interest  shown and for joining us today. Looking forward 
to a constructive exchange of views on all aspects of Jordan's trade policies. 
2.5.  Jordan continued to adopt a trade policy based on economic openness, despite regional 
challenges. We strongly believe that such policy fosters economic development, raises the economy's competitiveness and supports a better business environment. The economy of Jordan 
has reaped the benefits of the global economic integration.   
2.6.  We continue to believe that economic openness is vital for our prosperity and development, 
building on our experience for about two decades, and we have continued to undertake significant macroeconomic and structural reforms since the previous review in 2008.  
2.7.  The period of our review today (from 2008 until 2014) witnessed an increase in our GDP from 
US$21.9 billion to US$35 billion with an average annua l real growth rate of 3.7% over the past six 
years. Exports grew from US$7.7 billion to US$8.38 billion and foreign direct investments 
continued to flow, despite the unrest in the region. The positive performance of Jordan's economy 
reduced unemployment rate from 12.7% to 11.4% in 2014 and the national income per capita 
grew by 42.8%. 
2.8.  As you are all aware, the global economy and the Middle East went through tough times in 
the last years. The Jordanian economy was affected  by the consequences of the regional unrest. 
Moreover, the disruption of the gas flow into Jord an led to a significant increase of the budget 
deficit over the past four years. 
2.9.  In order to overcome this difficult situation, the Government adopted austerity measures and 
implemented several macroeconomic policies in cooperation with the IMF, including: 
 Lifting fuel subsidies; 
 Freezing public recruitment; 
 Strengthening good governance; 
 Adopting tax reforms; and 
 Lowering government spending 
2.10.  The government reforms have strongly contributed to the resilience and stability of our 
economy. Foreign reserves reached nearly US$15 billion at the end of 2014, the budget deficit decreased to reach 7.1% of GDP. And GDP growth last year reached 3.2%. 
2.11.  The Middle East has been facing serious and unprecedented challenges over the past few 
years. Although Jordan has been affected significantly by the regional unrest mainly in economic and social aspects, Jordan, under the guidance of  H.M. King Abdullah II remains an oasis of 
stability in the Middle East and serves as a hub for doing business in the region.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  2.12.  Today, Jordan hosts around 1.4 million Syrians representing almost 20% of Jordan's 
population. This has posed social and economic challenges on our budget, unemployment, infrastructure, public health and education services. We call on the international community to further support Jordan in dealing with these challenges.  
2.13.  Moreover, the cross border with Syria was closed in April this year followed by closure of 
borders with Iraq in July. Exports to Iraq, which is Jordan's second export market after the U.S. dropped in the first eight months of this year by 37%, and our exports to Syria dropped by 40%. 
Additionally, Syria was the privileged gateway fo r Jordan's trade with other important markets 
such as Lebanon, Turkey and the EU. The impa ct has also extended to our land transport 
operators.  
2.14.  Despite all these challenges, Jordan has continued its economic reforms. The Government 
launched a ten year economic blueprint earlier this year which features a long-term vision for 
Jordan's economy that includes policies and me asures to be implemented by the Government, 
private sector and civil society to support economic development in the coming decade. Jordan 
Vision 2025 seeks to promote the rule of law and equal opportunity, and achieve financial 
sustainability and self-sufficiency, while taking into account unforeseen and accelerating regional 
uncertainties.  
2.15.  Recent reforms included a new Income Ta x Law, a new Investment law, and a new 
Public-Private Partnership law, with particular  focus on improving the business and investment 
environments and promoting private sector development.  
 The Government is working diligently to develop an "Investment Promotion Strategy" aiming 
at attracting FDIs in export-oriented manufacturing production and services, high-value 
added and knowledge-based sectors.  
 The new Investment Law centralizes and expedites all investment related procedures 
through one body: the Jordan Investment Commission .It introduces fiscal incentives and 
articulates clear definitions of tax exemptions and investors rights. It also introduces a one-stop shop investment window in an aim to simplify licensing of economic projects and 
stimulate Development and Free Zones. 
 The PPP Law aims at encouraging the private sector to partner with the Government in 
implementing infrastructure development projects.  
 The Government also lowered the minimum capital requirement for starting a business in 
Jordan. 
 Trade facilitation measures were adopted to expedite flow of goods across borders such as 
"The Golden List", Single Window, and the im plementation of the ASYCUDA World. Jordan 
also looks forward to the implementation of the WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement.  
 The Government is working on modernizing the business environment and service delivery 
through implementing a Government e-transformation plan. To this effect, The Electronic 
Transaction Law was passed early this year. 
 A Credit Bureau is expected  to be in operation soon. 
 A Bankruptcy law was drafted and is under review by the parliament. 
 A new Standards and Metrology Law, as well as a new Food Law were enacted this year. 
 A Renewable Energy law was enacted in order to attract investments in this important 
sector.   
2.16.  Jordan is a strong believer in the multilateral trading system and is still committed to 
contribute towards the strengthening of a free and fair global trade, and is also committed towards 
the conclusion of the DDA. To further enhance market access opportunities, Jordan signed Free WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  Trade Agreements with the Arab Countries (GAFTA ), the EU, the U.S., EFTA states, Singapore, 
Canada, and Turkey.   
2.17.  With great interest, we are looking forward to a successful MC10, which is to take place in 
Nairobi this year. Jordan is strongly committed to work, in cooperation with WTO Members, to 
build on Bali outcomes to deliver clear potential outcomes in support of development priorities. 
2.18.  Before concluding, I would like to emphasize that Jordan's economy has been resilient to the 
unprecedented and exceptional geopolitical circumstances due to its solid macroeconomic 
foundations. However, such developments, and as explained earlier, have imposed serious 
implications on our foreign trade, particularly our export based industries, noting that 90% of Jordan's exports are manufactured goods.  
2.19.  Last week, Jordan discussed within the Council for Trade in Goods its request to extend the 
transition period for the export subsidy programme beyond the year 2015. I would like to take this 
opportunity to thank all Members in this House fo r their acknowledgement and appreciation of the 
challenges Jordan is facing and to thank Memb ers who widely supported Jordan's request and 
those who acknowledged the proposed action plan introduced in our recent revised request. 
2.20.  I would like to thank Members for their positive interest in Jordan's economic and trade 
policies reflected in their questions. We have pr ovided written answers to many of the questions 
received before the deadline, 3 November 2015, an d will be providing additional answers in due 
time. 
2.21.  We look forward to an open and transparent discussion and welcome any additional 
clarifications that may arise. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT 
3.1.  I would like to start by offering France and Europe the condolences of Iceland and of the 
Government of Iceland to the tragic events that happened on Friday. 
3.2.  Next, I would like to welcome the delegation of Jordan, headed by Her Excellency Trade 
Minister Maha Ali, and thank you for your opening statement.  
3.3.  I think it is indeed appropriate to welcome you Minister Maha Ali back to Geneva. I saw on 
y o u r  C V  t h a t  y o u  l i v e d  i n  G e n e v a  m o r e  t h a n  a  d e c a d e  a g o  b e f o r e  y o u  w e n t  o n  t o  b e c o m e  a  
Director of the Foreign Trade Policy Department in your Ministry and that your "WTO CV" is an 
impressive one. You were a Member of the Jord an WTO Accession Team and have given lectures 
and advice on your experience worldwide. On top of that you have a WTO Trade Policy Diploma.  
3.4.  I must admit I am quite relieved that you sit on this side of the table and in case you have 
any questions please direct them to somebody else than me. I am only a humble discussant … we 
only discuss issues and definitely don't give any answers … not at all! 
3.5.  I would also like to thank Jordan and the Secretariat team for their high-quality reports. They 
form a good factual basis for our discussions.  
3.6.  I am honoured to take part in the Trade Policy Review of Jordan.  
3.7.  Jordan is a land of fascinating contrasts and history and the country's location has since the 
dawn of civilization been at the crossroads of  the Middle East and served as a strategic nexus 
connecting Asia, Africa and Europe.   
3.8.  Mr. Chairman, Minister Maha Ali. Both of you have already provided overviews of the major 
recent developments in Jordan's economic policy and trade. To avoid duplication and for the sake 
brevity, I will limit myself to some general observ ations that resonated with me as I reviewed the 
reports.  
 Firstly, I will touch upon Jordan's economic development in a broader context; 
 second, I will talk about the interplay between the government's strategy and Jordan's trade 
regime; and 
 third, I will touch upon Jordan's trade policy.  
The broader context. 
3.9.  Being one of the most strategically positioned countries in the Middle East, geographically 
and politically has made Jordan extremely vulnerable to regional spill over effects that continue to dominate its economy. 
3.10.  The refugee influx from, in particular, Syria and Iraq remains the largest recent external 
challenge affecting Jordan. I think it is appropriate in this context to commend the people of Jordan and its Government who continue to demonstrate extraordinary hospitality to its brethren, 
despite the substantial strain on national systems and infrastructure.  
3.11.  Along with the refugee influx neighbouring na tions struggle to cope with wide scale of 
challenges. These exogenous struggles include num ber of issues affecting Jordan, for instance: 
 Multiple disruptions of gas from Egypt caused by pipeline attacks have been particularly 
detrimental. It has forced Jordan to rely on more expensive diesel fuel than before from the open market.  
 As home to many religious and cultural sites, tourism is very important to the economy and 
employment, accounting for abou t 14% of GDP, nearly one th ird of export receipts and 
employs 8% of total workforce. Although receipts from tourism increased considerably from WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  2011 to 2014 the number of tourist arrivals declined slightly over the same period. In the 
first half of 2015, tourism receipts declined by 15.7% comparing with the same period in 2014, due to escalating crisis in Syria and Iraq . The economic crisis faced by the EU has in 
particular been linked to that decline, as th e EU is a big market for tourism in the country. 
 The instability in the region has of course led to the loss of many of the traditional markets 
for Jordanian export. During the first half of 2015, statistical data indicate a decrease by 8.2% in total export value with exports to Sy ria declining by almost 40% and 32% for Iraq 
for the same period. On top of the traditional gateway for Jordan's exports, that is to say 
through Syria, is closed and alternative routes are drastically more expensive.   
3.12.  Needless to say Jordan's Government has increased current spending which has increased 
the Government's fiscal deficit which, of course, increases public debt. The debt to GDP ratio is 
now 90%. Speaking from experience, I would not re commend a much higher level. Therefore it is 
encouraging that in 2017 you will have eliminated the fiscal deficit. 
3.13.  Despite all that Jordan's Government should be congratulated for its GDP growth averaged 
over 3.7% annually between 2008 an d 2014, and the most recent proj ection by the IMF is 2.9% in 
2015, and 3.7% in 2016.  
3.14.  Further, the IMF has reported that despite the Kingdom, persevering in a difficult 
environment, growth is holding up, inflation is low, the current account deficit is narrowing, 
international reserves are at a comfortable level, and the banking system is robust.  
3.15.  What is also encouraging is that Jordan is classified as a country of high human 
development by the Human Development Report, has well educated people and a well-developed 
transport infrastructure, the 35th best in th e World according to World Economic Forum. 
Furthermore, the adult literacy rate in 2013 was 97% and UNESCO ranked Jordan's education system 18th out of 94 nations for providing gender equality in education. 
3.16.  Being a father of two daughters and coming from Iceland, gender issues are close to my 
heart. Could I ask you, Minister Maha Ali, what is the Government's plan to increase women's economic and political participation. Gender equality is, inter alia , underlined in Jordan Vision 
2025. 
Interplay between Government strategy and trade policy 3.17.  I will now turn to my second point: the in terplay between the Government strategy and 
trade policy. 
3.18.  What I found perhaps most interesting when going through the reports was that Jordan has 
performed remarkably well in preserving its economic progress. 
3.19.  Since its independence in 1946 Jordan has suffered from trade deficits and narrow export 
base. The collapse of world oil prices in 1986 init iated an era of economic retrenchment. By early 
1989, several economic difficulties hit simult aneously, the Government has responded with 
economically reasonable measures such as cuts in subsidies and higher indirect taxes.  
3.20.  Jordan began to integrate into the world market, increased productivity through 
specialization and overcame the limited scale of domestic economy.  
3.21.  For instance as part of its April 1989 Stand-by Arrangement with the IMF, Jordan adopted a 
medium-term, growth oriented, macroeconomic adjustment strategy to address structural 
weaknesses in the budget and in the balance of paym ents, as well as to facilitate the achievement 
of sustainable growth. 
3.22.  Additional funding came from the World Bank  that required Jordan to undertake policy 
reforms to create a more uniform, non-discretionary set of incentives across different sectors in 
the economy, including rationalizing the tariff regime and strengthening institutions that support industry and exports.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  3.23.  Jordan's foreign trade policy is oriented towards economic openness and integration into the 
world economy. It is one of those impressive success stories and yet a welcoming story in a region wracked by instability.  
3.24.  Currently, Jordan has one of the most open tr ade regimes in the region and Jordan also 
maintains an open services trade regime, rank ing 17th on the GATS Commitment Index (World 
Bank, 2010). The country has committed to trade liberalization reforms and has actively participated in WTO negotiations and engaged in bilateral trade relations with its main trading 
partners. Further In 2015, the World Bank ranked  Jordan 54th among 178 economies in terms of 
the ease of trading across borders, up from 59th in 2008. 
3.25.  FDI continued to flow into Jordan, growin g from US$1,47 billion in  2011 to US$1,76 billion 
in 2014, inter alia , because the Central Bank implemented several rate cuts aiming at fostering 
investments. Jordan revised its Investment laws in 2014 and although foreign and domestic 
investors are treated equally in most ways, differences remain in restrictions on land ownership, minimum capital requirements and equity restrictions on foreign investment in some sectors and 
prohibitions from foreign investment in a number of areas.  
3.26.  It would be useful to hear if the authorities have any plan to open the economy further to 
foreign investment. 
3.27.  Jordan is now reforming its government procurement system and has a commitment 
regarding GPA accession in its WTO accession protocol.  
3.28.  I think I speak for many Members here today when I say there is widespread interest in 
knowing the latest development of this legisl ation, and Jordan's plan on GPA accession.  
Elements of trade regime 
3.29.  The third issue I want to raise today concerns some elements of Jordan's trade regime. 
Jordan should be acknowledged for taking decisi ve measures to improve trade and investment 
policies since the last review.  
3.30.  Jordan should be congratulated for intensive efforts and many positive reforms. In the area 
of trade reform, the Government has taken a numb er of measures. Efforts have been made to 
bring the trade regime into compliance with WTO agreements.  
3.31.  To simplify business procedures and improve the investment climate, a number of laws 
related to trade and investment were revised or amended, including the Competition Law (2011), Customs Law (amended in 2012), Investment Law (2014), Income Tax Law (2014), and Public-
Private-Partnership Law (2014).  
3.32.  The amendments to the customs law, most recently in 2012 included reforms regarding 
customs procedures, including the implementation of single-window procedures from 2009 and the 
full implementation of Asycuda World from 2010. 
3.33.  The Competition Law, most recently amended in 2011, applies to all enterprises including 
SOEs in Jordan. The Law provides that prices shou ld be determined by the market, except for the 
prices of "essential commodities", and temporary government control of prices in the case of 
emergencies or natural disasters. Since 2012, the Government has begun an action plan to replace the subsidies to maintain price controls on food and on oil, by targeted cash transfers to low income households.  
3.34.  SOEs still play a significant role in the economy while many SOEs are running a loss. The 
privatization program is largely complete. The Government factors public-private-partnership projects. PPP Law was enacted in December 2014, to encourage private sector investment in 
public sector infrastructure projects, and to en able the public sector to manage and carry out 
projects funded by the private sector. Under this PPP Law, a Partnership Council is to be established.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  3.35.  It would be interesting to hear Jordan's view on how the long term plans for the future 
regarding the progress. 
Jordan Vision for 2015 3.36.  Jordan faces unprecedented challenges with  a virulent turmoil in two neighbouring 
countries, the interruption of traditional trading routes, uncertain worldwide economic prospects 
and massive inflow of refugees.  
 It is weathering the storm. 
 Jordan's economy has continued to grow. 
 Deficit is coming down. 
 Regulatory and structural reforms are being implemented. 
3.37.  However, the fundamentals of the country are pu t to the test and it is our duty as state 
entities and citizens of this world to assist Jordan and its neighbours in all the way we possibly can 
in order to bring peace to this region. 
3.38.  It has been a great pleasure to act as a discussant in the first day of this Trade Policy 
Review. I thank you for this opportunity. I wish Jordan a very successful TPR.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS 
EUROPEAN  UNION 
4.1.  For the European Union but also for the French delegation, I would also like to express our 
gratitude for your words of condolences and consolation on the events in Paris. 
4.2.  Jordan is a stable country in a troubled region. The regional crisis had severe impacts on 
Jordan's trade performance leading in particular to the loss of many of its traditional export markets and its access to its traditional export gateways. In addition, Jordan faces an 
unprecedented refugee crisis as it has to deal with the presence on its territory of over 1.3 million 
of refugees from neighbouring countries. This clearly is aggravating the situation and provoking major negative impacts on a small country with a small economy. The EU recognizes the exceptional circumstances Jordan is facing.  
4.3.  The EU commends Jordan's resilience in this di fficult 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 investment.  
4.4.  Despite these exceptional exogenous constraints, Jordan maintained an open and growing 
economy with a real GDP growth averaged ov er 3.7% annually, between 2008 and 2014. 
4.5.  As also noted by the Secretariat report, Jordan carried out a certain number of reforms to 
improve the trade and investment climate. In particular, the EU appreciates the reforms aimed at 
simplifying the public procurement rules and legi slation as well as the efforts made in IPR 
protection and enforcement. In our view, th ese reforms show Jordan's commitment to the 
multilateral trade system. 
4.6.  The EU recognizes Jordan's commitment to the WTO and welcomes Jordan's notification of its 
Category A commitments under the Trade Facili tation Agreement. The EU encourages the 
Government of Jordan to advance quickly the internal process leading to the ratification of the 
Agreement.  
4.7.  A word on our bilateral relationship. The EU has excellent relations with Jordan clearly 
reflected by the strong trade relationship under the framework of our Association Agreement, in 
force since 2002, which has strengthened and reinforced our economic ties. The EU actively 
supports and assists Jordan in the implementation of its reform process in the difficult regional environment. In this respect, the EU cooperation in dicative allocation for the period 2014-2020 will 
be between €567 million–€693 million. 
4.8.  The EU is Jordan's primary commercial partner in terms of total trade volume. Total trade 
with the EU amounted to approximately €4 billion in 2014. In 2014, the EU was Jordan's first source of imports just before Saudi Arabia while Jordan was the EU's 64th trade partner. 
4.9.  The EU and Jordan have also made good progress in preparing the process to deepen their 
existing trade relationship through the negoti ation of a Deep and Comprehensive Free Trade 
Agreement.  
4.10.  The EU commends Jordan for its efforts under  the framework of the Agadir Agreement, 
paving the way for stronger economic cooperation between Jordan and the neighbouring countries with the ultimate goal of creating a genuine regional trade relationship open to additional regional partners. The EU encourages Jordan to continue making progress in the consolidation of this 
Agreement and to build up into further and effective integration as the EU believes that 
comprehensive regional integration between the Mediterranean countries is instrumental for the economic prosperity of the region. 
4.11.  Let me thank Jordan for the responses to the questions we had previously submitted in 
writing and raise a few specific issues. 
4.12.  Firstly, the EU appreciates the measures adop ted to liberalize Jordan's investment regime, 
in particular the investment law adopted in 2014 aiming at facilitating investment procedures. The WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  EU encourages Jordan to consider further reforms for the elimination of the existing restrictions on 
foreign investment in order to improve its business environment, strengthen competitiveness and further open up its economy. 
4.13.  Secondly, I would also flag that, in a bilateral context, the EU has raised certain concerns 
with Jordan on a recent safeguard investigation co ncerning imports of certain types of paper where 
it was not clear whether the criteria for imposing a safeguard measure were fulfilled. This issue remains under discussion and we hope to find a satisfactory conclusion soon.  
4.14.  To conclude, the EU is confident that this exercise will help Jordan in reviewing and 
strengthening its policies and we look forward to a constructive exchange of views during this 
review. I wish the Jordanian delegation the utmost success during its Trade Policy Review. 
AUSTRALIA 
4.15.  Australia is pleased to participate in the second Trade Policy Review of Jordan. This review 
takes place during a challenging period for Jordan, in the wake of the global financial crisis and in the midst of the ongoing instability in the Middle East region. Australia commends Jordan's 
profound contribution to managing the impact of the Syrian conflict, including by hosting over 
600,000 registered Syrian refugees, and recogniz es the impact of the conflict on Jordan's 
economy. 
4.16.  Against that difficult backdrop, Australia welcomes Jordan's ongoing efforts to reform its 
economy and attract foreign investment. This includes Jordan's commitment to ensuring successful implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement. Australia commends Jordan on its domestic adoption of many trade facilitation concepts and practices, including upgrading its customs 
facilities, automating paper-based systems, adopti ng green-lane treatment for specific companies 
and goods, and leading the way on single window implementation in the Middle East. We encourage Jordan to continue to be proactive in adopting the practices of trade facilitation in order 
to speed the flow of goods across borders. 
4.17.  Australia also commends Jordan's commitment to stimulate economic growth and social 
inclusiveness through its "Jordan 2025 – National Vision and Strategy". We encourage Jordan's 
continued focus on promoting the rule of law and equal opportunities, increasing participatory 
policymaking, achieving fiscal sustainability and strengthening institutions, all of which can play a vital role in addressing structural issues in the economy and social inequality. 
4.18.  Australia recognizes Jordan's efforts to improve the environment for foreign investors by 
reforming domestic investment laws. As others have done, Australia welcomes Jordan's enactment 
of the revised Investment Law in 2014, which developed clear definitions of tax exemptions and investor rights and established a one-stop shop investment window. Australia will follow with 
particular interest the opportunities this law may generate – in combination with the Public Private 
Partnership Law – for foreign investors in the mining and energy sector. 
4.19.  Reducing barriers to both trade and investment are important aspects of the economic 
reform process and will improve Jordan's long-term competiveness and strengthen its economic 
growth. Australia believes from its own experience that the road to a stronger economy and increased prosperity for all lies in structural economic reforms and the ability to attract foreign investment.   
4.20.  Finally, notwithstanding the difficult conversations we are all engaged in at the moment in 
relation to possible outcomes for MC10 in December, Australia is looking forward to working with Jordan and all other Members in the coming weeks to deliver credible results for Nairobi. 
4.21.  For this review, Australia has submitted a number of written questions relating to Jordan's 
trade and investment regime. We appreciate Jordan's responses and will examine them closely.  
CANADA 
4.22.  Let me begin by first congratulating Jordan for its strong overall economic performance in 
recent years. It is particularly commendable that this performance has been achieved in spite of WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  the challenges that Jordan faces due to regional  instability. These challenges are difficult to 
overstate and we fully recognize and are sympatheti c to the impact that they have on Jordan's 
economic and trade policies. Canada has a long history of partnering with Jordan and looks forward to continuing this partnership as Jord an seeks to achieve the economic development 
objectives that it has set.   
4.23.  As these efforts are being undertaken, what is encouraging is that Jordan looks to the WTO 
as a key source of guidance for effectively pu rsuing its economic and development objectives. 
WTO rules and disciplines provide a sound policy framework for policymakers in Amman as they 
seek to create an environment that is conducive to stable economic development and growth.  
4.24.  In our view, efforts to improve the economic environment in Jordan should focus on 
"business conditions", to put it simply, in which the public and private sectors operate. Jordan tied 
for 55th out of 175 in Transparency International's 2014 Corruption Perceptions Index. We also 
note that Jordan ranks 113th out of 189 economies in the most recent World Bank Ease of Doing Business survey. We encourage Jordan to both l ook at the underlying cause of these pervasive 
perceptions and to aggressively seek to root out public and private sector corruption. This will 
contribute to the creation of a business environment that is more conducive to private-sector-led growth, and rising living standards for all Jordanians.   
4.25.  Of course, as in all countries, an important component of the business environment in 
Jordan is the treatment of foreign investment. The chair and others have highlighted some of Jordan's investment reforms. We find these to be encouraging simplifications of investment procedures. We are pleased to have had a Foreign Investment Promotion and Protection 
Agreement in force with Jordan for more than five years. Canada is also pleased that, to simplify 
business procedures and improve its investment climate, Jordan has revised and amended its trade-and-investment-related legislation. The recent enactment of Investment Law No. 30 of 2014 
is designed to reduce the cost of doing busine ss and increase transparency, and we welcome in 
particular this Law's initiative to bring all government agencies that were formerly responsible for different aspects of investment under one agency.    
4.26.  Having said that and having canvassed Canadian companies, we understand that their 
operations face challenges in Jordan. One area highlighted by our businesses is customs procedures. Although we welcome Jordan's efforts to streamline these procedures through the introduction of a single-window system, we also no te the import processing fee applied by Jordan 
Customs. This fee has the potential to increase the cost of imports into Jordan, which may in turn 
affect its competitiveness in international trade.   
4.27.  We submitted a question about this import pr ocessing fee. We also inquired about the 
treatment of genetically modified organisms and th e unified procurement by-law that I understand 
is currently awaiting ratification, according to the Secretariat's report. We will study your answers to these questions carefully.  
4.28.  In Canada, we fully recognize the challenges that Jordan faces. We are reassured by 
Jordan's firm commitment to the WTO.   
BRAZIL 4.29.  In the recent years, Jordan's economy has been averaging a growth of 3.7% a year, 
alongside with the increase of commercial fl ows of goods and services. In 2015, growth is 
projected to be around 4%. This is a remarkable  achievement, especially when we consider the 
geopolitical hardships currently faced by the country and tis neighbouring region, with political and 
humanitarian crises in important trade partners. 
4.30.  We recognize the efforts in modernizing several business procedures through the revision 
and amendment of domestic legislation, such as  the Customs Law, Investment Law, Income Tax 
Law, Competition Law and Public-Private-Partnership Law as well as the release of the 10 year 
plan for Jordan's economy "Jordan Vision 2025 Strategy" intending to develop the country's infrastructure and diversify its resources. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.31.  The deepening of economic relations between Br azil and Jordan has greatly benefited from 
the establishment, in 2005, of the Summit of So uth American-Arab countries. Over the past ten 
years, trade between Brazil and Arab countries increased 183%, rising from US$17.6 billion in 2005 to US$34.8 billion in 2014. Trade with Jordan ha s more than doubled in this period, although 
from and admittedly modest base. 
4.32.  These results were possible due to stronger interaction between business communities from 
Brazil and Jordan. The just concluded IV South American-Arab countries Business Forum, held in 
Riad, Saudi Arabia, on 8 and 9 November, provided yet another opportunity to explore ways to 
increase trade and investment flows among the two regions. 
4.33.  Brazil exports to Jordan consist mostly of ag ricultural and agri-processed goods, such as 
various types of poultry, meat products, coffee, corn and live animals; imports from Jordan are 
primarily comprised of chemical or mineral fertilizers, articles of clothing and components for 
memory storage. 
4.34.  Despite the developments in recent years, Brazil believes there is still much room to grow 
and to diversify bilateral trade flows. Besides ag ri-food products, Brazilian producers of medical 
products are increasingly interested in supplying equipment and devices to the medical and health sector in Jordan. 
4.35.  We are confident that the relations between Jordan and Brazil will continue to be reinforced 
in a constructive and open way, with a view to promoting not only bilateral trade in goods and services but also investments. 
4.36.  We have submitted a set of questions on the economic challenges faced by Jordan in recent 
years, measures affecting exports and financial services. We thank the delegation for the answers 
provided this morning, which we will convey to our capital.  
SINGAPORE 
4.37.  Despite the geopolitical and economic challenges that Jordan has weathered since its last 
Trade Policy Review, its economy has remained resilient. Exports and imports of goods and 
services have increased; and improvements have been made to simplify business procedures and 
investment climate. Singapore applauds Jordan for these trade facilitative initiatives, even more so 
during such volatile times.  
4.38.  Singapore and Jordan enjoy warm bilateral relations and growing economic ties. The 
Singapore-Jordan Free Trade Agreement, which entered into force in 2005, was Singapore's first 
FTA with a country from the Middle East region. It paved the way for the strengthening of bilateral 
economic ties, and for Singapore's engagement of the Middle East region as a whole. Last year, bilateral trade totalled S$166 million, making Jordan Singapore's 13th largest trading partner in 
the Middle East and North African region.  
4.39.  We note that this year marks Jordan's 15th ye ar as a Member of the WTO. Jordan's active 
participation in the WTO is commendable. They have played an important role this year as 
coordinator of the Asian Group of Developing Countries. Jordan is also a signatory to the 
Information Technology Agreement; and an observ er to the Government Procurement Agreement. 
We welcome Jordan's announcement that the succe ssful implementation of the Trade Facilitation 
Agreement is one of its priorities, and encourage Jo rdan to deposit its instrument of acceptance as 
soon as possible.  
4.40.  Finally, the Singapore delegation looks forward to continuing our excellent cooperation and 
partnership with Ambassador Saja Majali and her team in Geneva. We thank Jordan for their 
timely response to our written question and wish them every success in their second Trade Policy 
Review. 
CHINA 
4.41.  China is glad to see Jordan's economy has exhi bited resilience under difficult international 
economic environment and regional challenges. From 2008 to 2014, Jordan's economy has WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  maintained an average growth of 3.5%, and its ex port has also increased 17% in the same period. 
We commend Jordan's prudent macroeconomic policies and the efforts in further liberalizing trade and investment regime, which are believed to be the key factors for maintaining its macro-economic stability, and we encourage the government of Jordan continue to do so.   
4.42.  Here in the WTO, it is commendable that Jordan is firmly committed to their WTO 
obligations, and played a constructive role in the DDA negotiation as one of the Asian Developing Members and Recently Acceded Members. We also note that Jordan is actively participating in 
regional and bilateral trade agreements, and many of which are recently completed during the 
period under review.  
4.43.  On the bilateral front, China is the third largest trading partner of Jordan with total trade 
volume of US$3.6 billion dollars in 2014. In recent years, the two countries have built close 
economic ties with rapidly growing trade and two-way investment flow. This September, His 
Majesty King Abdullah visited China and signed a joint statement with Chinese president, H.E. Mr. Xi Jinping, on the establishment of strategic partnership, which marks a significant step 
for the two countries in entering into a ne w chapter of deeper and more comprehensive 
cooperation. 
4.44.  Looking ahead, China is keen to expand our g ood economic relation with Jordan in trade, 
investment, industrial capacity, infrastructure, energy, finance and other sectors. In this regard, it 
is worth-mentioning that there is still space for Jordan to improve in building an investment-friendly environment, particularly in the areas of easing foreign investment restrictions, increasing policy transparency and facilitating custom proced ures. We hope the government of Jordan could 
put more efforts on these areas in the future. 
MEXICO 4.45.  The delegation of Mexico is pleased to note that despite numerous and very singular 
challenges Jordan has recorded considerable progress and achievements since its previous review, 
as explained by our distinguished discussant and by Her Excellency Ms Maha Ali, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply. We bid her and her accompanying delegation a very warm welcome. 
4.46.  Jordan is to be praised for the range of reforms it has undertaken, the 3.5% average growth 
rate posted between 2008 and 2014, and the binding of all its tariff lines. The average bound MFN 
i m p o r t  t a r i f f  o n  n o n  a g r i c u l t u r a l  p r o d u c t s  i s  1 5 . 1 % ,  w i t h  a n  a p p l i e d  r a t e  o f  8 . 9 % ,  a n d  f o r  agricultural products the bound rate is 23.8%, with an applied rate of 17.4%. 
4.47.  As regards trade facilitation, a point worthy of note is that Jordan has been implementing 
ASYCUDA WORLD since 2010 and has achieved the 100% share of e customs declarations targeted. The country is also to be commended for notifying its Category A commitments under 
the Trade Facilitation Agreement in September 2014. 
4.48.  Our bilateral trade with Jordan has expanded in recent years. In 2014, Jordanian exports to 
Mexico grew by 142% over the 2008 figures, while  Mexican exports to Jordan increased by 16% 
over the same period. 
4.49.  Mexico is the first Latin American country to be negotiating a free trade agreement with 
Jordan. The negotiations that are now under way are aimed at increasing trade flows for both economies, and, for Mexico in particular, they pr ovide an opportunity of opening up to one of the 
fastest growing countries in the Middle East. 
4.50.  According to the Secretariat report, about 50% of Jordan's standards are equivalent to 
international standards, and 40% of its technical regulations are based on relevant international 
norms. In view of the foregoing, our delegation urges Jordan to continue harmonizing its standards 
and technical regulations. Our private sector has a growing interest in learning more about both draft and adopted technical regulations; when Jord an notifies them, we would be grateful if it 
would provide detailed information in one of the WTO's official languages so as to make them 
easier to understand. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.51.  As regards trade in services and investment, Jordan has a complex system of free zones, 
special economic zones and qualifying industrial zones, each of which has its own legislation, incentives and ownership and investment regimes. Hence, we concur with the word of caution in the Secretariat report that the prerogative of the Jordanian Council of Ministers to "grant benefits 
and exemptions may create some uncertainty and may lead to questions on the transparency and 
effectiveness of the incentive scheme". 
4.52.  Jordan is one of the countries having made the most substantial commitments on financial 
services under the GATS. According to the Secretariat report, in 2013 assets in the country's 
financial system were the equivalent of 189% of GDP. 
4.53.  In 2013, the OECD recognized the strength of Jordan's financial system relative to other 
countries in the region, although it advised Jordan to facilitate access to financing for small and 
medium sized enterprises. Our delegation concurs with this recommendation and agrees that a 
great deal remains to be done in terms of business facilitation and competitiveness. 
4.54.  Turning to telecommunications, we commend Jordan for liberalizing the prices of 
telecommunications services, which are now determined by the market. We hope that this 
situation will be extended to other economic sectors, in which prices are subsidized or price ceilings applied. 
4.55.  All of these steps forward and achievements make Jordan not only a relevant trading 
partner for Mexico, which hopes to deepen bilateral relations, but also an unquestionably important Member of this Organization. 
4.56.  We thank Jordan for replying to our delegation's questions and wish it every success in this 
review. 
UNITED
 STATES 
4.57.  Jordan's economy faces many external and internal challenges including geopolitical 
pressures in the region resulting in a slowing of economic growth. It has few natural resources and 
is a relatively small economy. GDP per capita ranks it among the lower middle income countries, and it relies heavily on exports, tourism and overseas remittances, all negatively impacted by the 
instability in the Middle East and escalating conflicts in Syria and Iraq. We would like to take the 
opportunity to commend Jordan for its generosity of spirit in hosting many thousands of people displaced by these conflicts.   
4.58.  Notwithstanding those challenges, Jordan has been on a path of trade and economic 
liberalization, moving toward a market-driven economy. A critical step in that progression was 
Jordan's WTO accession in 2000. As a Member, Jordan has continued its support for the WTO principles, for example, by endorsing the Ba li package and the WTO agreement on Trade 
Facilitation and recently, by agreeing to dism antle its export subsidy programme. The United 
States applauds these efforts and will assist where possible in meeting these new commitments. 
4.59.  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. With Jordan's access to some of its traditional markets temporarily disrupted, we have worked to expand Jordan's competitiveness by 
helping identify new market opportunities th rough our bilateral trade reform assistance 
programming. 
4.60.  While we see great potential in Jordan, the pursuit of reforms remains important. Many of 
the questions we posed in this review reflect our desire to encourage Jordan to increase 
transparency and predictability in its business sector in order to attract much needed commercial engagement and foreign investment. 
4.61.  For example, we seek additional information on Jordan's investment regime for foreign 
investors, specifically as it pertains to land ownership restrictions, minimum capital requirements, and equity ownership restrictions. Additionally, Jordan could gain from further dismantling its tariff WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  and non-tariff barriers to trade. Rationalization of the MFN tariff through the reduction of tariff 
bands and rates should help reduce market distortions.   
4.62.  The United States has always advocated for strong intellectual property protections as 
critical to creating a business-friendly economy. We believe that Jordan, in general, has a strong 
regime for protecting IPR and would welcome the opportunity to review Jordan's 2014 copyright 
amendment as well as regulations on geographical indications, among others. We also encourage Jordan to take steps to strengthen its enforcement of IPR.   
4.63.  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 this 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 
broadly to strengthen and deepen our trade relationship.   
KINGDOM
 OF SAUDI  ARABIA   
4.64.  Despite the daunting challenges due to the global financial crisis, in addition to the political 
and security problems affecting neighbouring countries reflected in the large refugee influx to Jordan and disrupted trade routes, the Jordan ian economy remained strong and resilient. 
4.65.  Economic growth averaged nearly 5% in the last decade and imports and exports of both 
goods and services have increased. 
4.66.  The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia welcomes the efforts of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 
pursuing an open, liberal and transparent trade and investment regime. Since its last review, the 
Government acted swiftly with a large stimulus structural reforms in education, health, 
privatization and trade liberalization. We are happy to note that in order to identify concrete steps towards enhancing the investment climate and ease of doing business, Jordan has introduced 
successful amendments in several laws such as Customs, Investment, Income Tax, Competition 
and Public Private Partnership. 
4.67.  The "Jordan 2025 National Vision and Strategy" is a roadmap for making Jordan a 
sustainable, competitive, fair and knowledge based economy. 
4.68.  We also encourage the efforts of Jordan to overcome the enormous challenges facing its 
economy and believe strongly that lending support to Jordan's revised request to extend beyond 2015 the transition period for the elimination of export subsidies would help the country to 
improve its economic performance and will reduce its vulnerability to external shocks. 
4.69.  It is important to highlight that Jordan as a Recently Acceded member, has made extensive 
liberalization commitments under the General Ag reement on Trade in Services. The Jordanian 
economy is service-oriented in terms of value added and employment. Despite the economic 
challenges, the financial sector remains stable, efficient, and profitable. We have addressed some questions regarding the establishment of the Jo rdan Deposits Insurance Corporation JDIC to 
Jordan. We will be happy to receive Jordan's replies to these questions. 
4.70.  Saudi Arabia and Jordan are prominent trading partners; trade exchange between the two 
countries surpassed 19 billion Saudi Riyals in 2013. Saudi Arabia is among the largest investors in Jordan in various sectors such as banking, energy , tourism and industry. The aviation industry has 
a big potential to further growth between the two countries. 
4.71.  Jordan has proved its commitment to support  the world trading system and the WTO and 
has demonstrated its desire to continue to play an  active role in the promotion of free and open 
trade. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  EGYPT 
4.72.  Egypt appreciates the concerted efforts made by Jordan to enhance its participation in the 
multilateral trading system and to maintain its commitments to the WTO, which has allowed for the expansion of trade and investment opportunities and has contributed to the overall 
improvement of the business environment. 
4.73.  Egypt is pleased to see that Jordan has continued to make economic progress since its last 
Trade Policy Review, despite the effects of the global financial crisis during this period, as well as 
the challenges it faces as a consequence of the political unrest in neighbouring countries. Jordan's 
resilience in the face of difficult external conditions is a direct result of prudent macroeconomic policies in addition to the willingness of the Jordanian Government to introduce necessary reforms and measures aimed at fostering economic development and raising its economy's 
competitiveness, as well as enhancing its sustained economic growth prospects. 
4.74.  Jordan's remarkable efforts to continue to promote human development are noteworthy. In 
this regard, we congratulate Jordan on its ranking in the Human Development Index, in which it is 
classified among the group of countries with a high human development. 
4.75.  Egypt would like to express its confidence that Jordan will be able to achieve its long term 
objectives towards a sustainable, diversified and open economy, in the framework of the Jordan 
Vision 2025 strategy, which aims at promoting the rule of law and equal opportunities, increasing 
participatory policy-making, achieving fiscal sustainability and the strengthening of institutions. 
4.76.  In conclusion, I would like to seize this oppo rtunity to express our sincere appreciation for 
the hard work undertaken by Jordan's mission here  in Geneva, particularly as we approach the 
WTO's Tenth Ministerial Conference and we look forward to our continued cooperation with the aim 
of reaching a meaningful and development-oriented outcome in Nairobi. 
TURKEY 
4.77.  First, I would like to join H.E. Minister, our discussant and previous speakers to condemn 
severely the latest terrorist attacks in Paris, whic h have not targeted only France but the civilized 
world and its values. I would convey our sincere condolences to the victims' families and express 
our solidarity with France. 
4.78.  Thanks to the comprehensive structural reforms since 1990s, Jordan's economy has become 
one of the most open economies in its region. However, we should bear in mind that, before and during the period under review, Jordan has been affected by severe external shocks (security 
crises in Iraq and civil war in Syria) that have led to large numbers of refugees fleeing to Jordan, 
disrupted trade routes, and affected investment. Despite the turmoil in the region and its impact on Jordan's economy, we are pleased to observe that Jordan could maintain an open economy. 
The financial sector still remains stable, efficient, profitable and economic growth averaged nearly 
3.5% annually during the last five years which constitutes one of the highest growths in the region. 
4.79.  We welcome the continuing reforms aiming at  further simplifying business procedures and 
improve investment climate, since the last Trade Policy Review, including the Competition Law (amended in 2011), the Customs Law (amended in 2012), the Investment law, the Income Tax Law, and the Public-Private-Partnership Law last year. We believe that these reforms have positive 
effects on the performance of the economy. Howeve r, although foreign and domestic investors are 
treated equally in most ways, differences remain in  some specific areas such as land ownership, 
whole sale and retail trade, and some areas of the services sectors. I would like to emphasize that 
removing limitations on foreign participation in certain economic activities would certainly help 
Jordan to increase its economic competitiveness. 
4.80.  As indicated in the Secretariat report, Jordan's customs procedures have changed 
significantly since 2008 with the introduction of new techniques and transparency measures. On 
the other hand, no considerable change has been made in applied tariffs since 2008 which remains 
at the level of 10% on simple average. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.81.  I would like to underline that, according to the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business Report 
in 2015, Jordan is in 54th place among 189 economies in trading across borders. The average cost 
to export a container and required time seems much lower than the other economies in the Middle East and North African region and compares favourably with OECD countries. This is an 
encouraging aspect of Jordan's economy especially for foreign investments. 
4.82.  As explained in detail in the Secretariat report, dry climate, lack of irrigation water, and 
small size of farms are the main problems for the agriculture sector in Jordan. In 2013, Jordan's 
agricultural sector accounted for 3% of GDP and approximately 15% of the population depend on 
agriculture. I am pleased to note that despite its relatively small sector, it steadily increased between 2007 and 2013 both in land usage an d annual production. However, I believe that 
developing a comprehensive strategy to set up a sustainable agricultural production will improve 
Jordan's agricultural sector remarkably. At this stage, efficient use of water and improving 
management of water resources are the most important aspects to be taken into consideration. 
4.83.  Additionally, being home to many religious and cultural sites, tourism is an important sector 
to the Jordan's economy. However, we observe a shar p fall in terms of both receipts and arrivals in 
the first quarter of 2015 compared to the previous terms. This fall is certainly due to the escalating security crises in the neighbouring countries that resulted in the country's land borders closing. 
4.84.  On bilateral side, we attach particular importance to our relations with Jordan which are 
based on deep historical and cultural bonds. Bila teral trade and economic relations between Turkey 
and Jordan have been increasing after the Free Trade Agreement between Turkey and Jordan came into force in 2011. Our trade volume with Jordan despite the external impediments and 
especially the civil war in Syria exceeded US$1 billion in 2014. In this context, we place high 
importance on the establishment of a High Leve l Strategic Cooperation Council between Turkey 
and Jordan, as it will certainly further enhance our bilateral economic relations. 
4.85.  Finally, I believe that brotherly Jordan will  achieve "Jordan 2025 – National Vision and 
Strategy" goals and address the social and economic challenges that Jordan is facing as a result of the ongoing instability in the region. 
RUSSIAN
 FEDERATION 
4.86.  Russia is pleased to be a part of this trade review exercise which we believe will serve as a 
good opportunity to get an overall assessment of Jordan's trade regime, as well as to focus on some of its elements of interest to the WTO Members. 
4.87.  I t  i s  n o t e w o r t h y  t h a t  J o r d a n  h a s  m a d e  a n  i m p r e s s i v e  m o v e  f o r w a r d  i n  r e f o r m i n g  i t s  
economy, thus enhancing its status as a responsible member of the multilateral trading system. The state policy of reforms, recently accelera ted in various trade-related areas, has already 
contributed to the process of Jordan's transforma tion into a real open economy in the region. 
Russia praises Amman for these efforts and shares Jordan's determination to strengthen the multilateral trading system.  
4.88.  It's encouraging that despite all economic and social challenges, driven mainly by political 
instability and escalating conflicts in the region, the Jordanian economy proved to be resilient and continued to show its positive performance in th e recent years. Jordan's average annual growth 
rate of 3.5% in 2008-2014, together with an FDI increase of 20% in 2014, are those figures that 
illustrate it best. 
4.89.  The Russian Federation and the Kingdom of Jordan have enjoyed a long history of close and 
cooperative relations. The President of Russia and the King of Jordan have established a regular 
personal dialogue that contributes significantly to the development of bilateral ties. The last 
meeting between our Leaders took place in August  2015 in Russia. Trade remains one of the key 
priorities in economic cooperation between our countries, progressing well during the past 7 years. 
The volume of our trade has increased by 32% between 2008 and 2014 and has reached 
US$540 million. However, it is still far beyond existing potential, and there is much room for improvement.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.90.  Prior to this TPR, Russia has submitted to Jordan a number of questions regarding certain 
sanitary and phytosanitary measures, drawing special attention to some national regulations in the agricultural sector. We look forward to receiving the answers and intend to consider them thoroughly. 
4.91.  In conclusion, I would like to thank the delegation of Jordan, the Secretariat and of course, 
our esteemed discussant, for their hard work done so far. We wish Jordan a successful trade policy review. 
ARGENTINA 
4.92.  Argentina is most interested to note Jordan's economic and trade development. The high 
level of instability in the Middle Eastern region and two of Jordan's neighbouring countries in particular, namely Syria and Iraq, coupled with the international financial crisis have clearly had an 
impact on the Jordanian economy, as a result of difficulties in exporting to these countries and 
diversifying away from traditional trading partners. 
4.93.  We underscore Jordan's ongoing efforts in pursuit of macroeconomic stability, trade 
liberalization, more effective performance of the private sector, and state reform. 
4.94.  Likewise, the launching of the Jordan Vision 2025 Strategy, which puts forward a new 
approach to stimulate economic growth and in clusiveness, provides ample evidence of the 
country's endeavours to address the social and economic challenges arising from current instability 
in the region. 
4.95.  Argentina commends Jordan for this strategy and other initiatives, such as the 2014 
Investment Law, which establishes a one stop shop for investors, and the law providing for 
investment under public private partnerships. We hope that these initiatives will contribute to the 
equitable opening up of Jordanian trade to foreign investment. 
4.96.  We note that Jordan succeeded in increasing  its agricultural exports by close to 76% 
between 2008 and 2014, from US$840 to $1,495 millio n, despite the country's severe scarcity of 
water. We also highlight the coordinated efforts made to implement an export subsidy scheme in keeping with Jordan's WTO commitments and providing for specific actions and time frames. 
4.97.  Argentina wishes to underscore Jordan's commitment to international trade, in an 
environment fraught with particular difficulties, and its contribution to efforts in support of a fair 
and balanced multilateral trading system. 
4.98.  In the context of this trade policy review, we recently submitted questions to Jordan 
relating, among other things, to unregulated and undeclared fishing. We look forward to receiving 
the Jordanian Government's replies in due course. 
4.99.  Argentina wishes to continue working together with Jordan to deepen our bilateral ties, so 
as to accompany the country along the path to provide better living conditions for its people. 
Argentina is willing to make every effort to expand relations between the two countries in the areas of agriculture, science, technology and health. 
4.100.  To conclude, while reiterating our appreciation of this renewed opportunity to exchange 
points of view and comments on the trade policies and practices of Jordan, we would like to draw 
attention once again to the importance of this ex ercise in transparency from every point of view. 
We wish the Jordanian authorities a successful review. 
MONTENEGRO 
4.101.  Montenegro would like to align itself with the statement delivered earlier by the EU 
delegation. 
4.102.  On reading the reports submitted by the Government of Jordan and the World Trade 
Organization Secretariat in advance of this meeting, Montenegro wishes to commend the Government of Jordan on ensuring an averag e economic growth of 3.5% annually from WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  2008-2014. As indicated in these reports, Jordan has faced challenges not only from the global 
financial crisis, but also increasingly challenging political and economic situations stemming from on-going unrest in Iraq and Syria. Sustaining soli d economic growth despite these challenges is to 
Jordan's credit. I would like to use this opportunity to express particular appreciation to the 
Government of Jordan for its continuing efforts to provide for thousands of migrants dispute 
enormous pressure to its economy and in particular its health and education system, but also Jordan's overall international trade relations. 
4.103.  In agreement with the Secretariat, Montenegro notes that since its last Trade Policy 
Review, Jordan has been actively working to increase its network of regional and international trade agreements. Agreements with Canada and Turkey have come into force in 2012 and 2011 respectively. Jordan has also successfully achieved  full implementation of agreements with the 
EFTA in 2014, the EU in 2013, Singapore in 2014, and the United States in 2010. As a State with a 
strong commitment to international trade Montenegro expresses its hope that Jordan will continue to build on these recent successes and foster even stronger business environment and trade 
integration. 
4.104.  Of particular interest to Montenegro is the Government of Jordan's attempt to stimulate 
economic growth and social inclusiveness through "the Jordan 2025 – National Vision and 
Strategy". As Jordan notes in its report, this economic blueprint was formally launched in May 
2015. It reaffirms Jordan's determination to develop the national economy, lead the path in achieving sustainable growth and ensure economic  reforms. Montenegro firmly believes in the 
importance of developing clear economic strategy if tangible economic benefits are to be realized. 
Montenegro wishes the Government of Jordan all the best in this endeavour. In addition, as one of 
the two youngest members of the GPA family Montenegro would like to encourage Jordan's efforts in its on-going negotiation towards full flagged accession to the GPA. We believe that the growing 
relevance of Agreement on Government Procurement for economic integration and good 
governance is important addition to the economic reforms of the member states.  
4.105.  Montenegro stands ready to advance economic and trade relations with Jordan based on 
the agreement signed between the two chambers of  commerce during our President's first official 
visit to The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in 2013. In addition, Montenegro is looking forward to 
continuing its constructive engagement with the Delegation of Jordan in Geneva under effective 
leadership of distinguished Ambassador Saja Majali. 
PAKISTAN 
4.106.  Pakistan commends the efforts of the Royal Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan in maintaining a 
liberal trading environment, amid daunting challenges, with a sustained growth rate of 5% since 
the last review.  
4.107.  We acknowledge the remarkable resilience in Jordanian economy with sound 
macroeconomic fundamentals as manifested in their GDP per capita that soared from US$3800 in 
2008 to US$5400 in 2014.  
4.108.  Their National Vision and Strategy 2025 prov ides to further strengthening the growth 
trajectory, factoring a participatory approach in policy making, laying down a rock solid institutional base to achieve the projected Gl obal Trade, Growth, and development outcomes. 
4.109.  Under the Global Competitiveness Index of 2014-15, Jordan ranks 64th from its previous 
three year ranking of 71 – it truly substantiates the fact as noted before. 
4.110.  Foreign investors in general have the same treatment as domestic investors, with few 
allowances as highlighted in the Secretariat report and noted by the discussant with regard to land 
ownership, minimum capital requirements for foreign investment and a few procedural issues – we recognize they will be streamlined under the Vision 2025. 
4.111.  Jordan performs better in the areas of information availability, simplification and 
harmonization of documents, automation, internal border agency cooperation, and governance and 
impartiality. Its performance of fees and ch arges are below average for MENA and upper 
middle-income countries.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.112.  Like Jordan, Pakistan had faced critical challenges and we fully recognize the challenges 
that huge refugee influx into Jordan brings. Our bilateral trade in energy sector is substantial and we wish to explore linkages to augment these. 
4.113.  To conclude, Pakistan deeply reiterates its commitment to the multilateral trade rules and 
we along with the Kingdom of Jordan remain steadfast to strengthening the multilateral trading 
system and, finally, we wish Jordan a very pr oductive and successful second Trade Policy Review. 
PHILIPPINES 
4.114.  On behalf of my Ambassador who is currently in Manila for the APEC Meetings, please allow 
me to deliver the Philippines' short statement. 
4.115.  The bilateral relations of the Philippines an d the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan may be 
characterized as strong, cordial, and there rema ins much potential for further strengthening and 
deepening these ties. 
4.116.  Over the past few years, the interaction between our two countries has been largely driven 
by the greater cooperation on labour issues due to  the presence of a significant number of Filipino 
workers in Jordan. This has built foundation to broader cooperation in other areas, such as trade 
and investment, tourism promotion, and socio-cultural interaction. 
4.117.  Believing in the potential of expanded cooperation between the Philippines and Jordan and 
the mutual benefits that such development could bring to the people of both countries, the 
Philippines seeks to raise awareness about the myri ad opportunities that are available to them for 
expanding and enhancing their interaction with the Philippines and the Filipinos. We are therefore looking forward to the implementation of Jordan's its 10-year economic blueprint - Jordan Vision 
2025 Strategy - which intends to enable Jordan to move quickly to diversify resources, develop 
infrastructure, and capitalize on its strengths. Its basic principles from which detailed government action plans would be based, including effort s to promote economic growth, and increase 
investment are areas where Philippines and Jordan could work together. 
4.118.  In closing, the Philippines congratulates Jordan for its second trade policy review and 
would like to wish the delegation, led by H.E. E n g .  M a h a  A l i ,  M i n i s t e r  o f  I n d u s t r y ,  T r a d e  a n d  
Supply, a successful trade policy review. Our appreciati on also goes to the H.E. Ms. Saja S. Majali, 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of the Permanent Mission of Jordan for the WTO for 
her leadership and her team's hard work for faci litating the Asian Group of Developing members. 
We would also like to thank the Secretariat for preparing a comprehensive report and 
H.E. Mr. Martin Eyjólfsson (Iceland) for his insightful comments as discussant. 
INDIA 4.119.  During the period under review, Jordan ha s been affected by a range of external 
geo-political stresses and the global economic tu rbulence. However, despite these challenges, the 
Jordanian economy has demonstrated remarkable resilience, registering an average annual growth rate of 3.5% over the last six years. On the trade and investment front, as noted in the Secretariat 
report, Jordan has taken a number of initiatives to update its legislations in areas such as customs, 
investment, taxation and competition law. Customs procedures have been streamlined with the introduction of single window procedures in 2009. The Government's new approach launched in May 2015 to stimulate economic growth and social  inclusiveness through "Jordan 2025 – National 
Vision and Strategy", is commendable. All in all, Jordan has weathered the uncertain political and 
economic environment with resilience and continues to take measures to open up its economy and make its trade regime more transparent and predictable.  
4.120.  India enjoys excellent relations with Jordan, and our two countries are celebrating 65th 
anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic rela tions this year. Hon'ble President of India paid 
an official visit to Jordan last month, which has laid out a robust road map for strengthening 
partnership between our two countries. The Indian  Minister of Commerce and Industry visited 
Jordan earlier this year for the meeting of Joint Trade and Economic Commission, indicating priority attached by the two countries for deepening economic partnership. India's trade with Jordan has grown in recent years despite global economic downturn. It has doubled in the last five WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  years, with trade volume of about US$2 billion last year. India is the fourth largest trading partner 
of Jordan. A number of Indian companies have invested in Jordan, including in the area of chemicals and fertilizers. We hope to expand bilateral trade and mutual investments. As regards specific trade matter, let me highlight one particular area of concern, which is affecting Indian 
exports of electrical equipment and machinery to Jordan. This relates to non-acceptance of test 
certificates issued by recognized Indian entities, and instead insistence by Jordanian authorities on certification from overseas laboratories. We would request the Jordanian government to review 
these requirements to make them simpler and reduce regulatory barriers to trade.    
4.121.  Before I conclude, I would like to acknowledge the active role played by Jordan in the WTO 
and in the ongoing DDA negotiations. We very mu ch appreciate the contribution of Ambassador, 
H.E. Ms. Saja S. Majali, as the coordinator of the Asian Group of Developing Countries this year. 
We look forward to working with Ambassador Majali and her team as well as other Members as we 
prepare for the successful Nairobi Ministerial.  
THE
 SEPARATE  CUSTOMS  TERRITORY  OF TAIWAN,  PENGHU,  KINMEN  AND  MATSU 
4.122.  Over the last decade, Jordan has successful ly managed to achieve an average annual GDP 
growth rate of 5%, despite the world financial cris is and other disruptive challenges in the region. 
One of the main reasons for this steady economic growth is the Government of Jordan's national 
programme of structural reforms in education and health, and in privatization and liberalization. It 
has introduced new social protection systems, reformed subsidies and taxation and created the suitable conditions for private partnerships in infrastructure. In 2015, the Government has also started to identify the steps needed to enhance the investment climate and make it easier to do 
business in Jordan. 
4.123.  Its economy, however, is mainly reliant on exports, tourism and remittances from 
Jordanian employees overseas. At the same time, it faces major challenges from the continuing 
serious instability in the region, especially from Syria and Iraq. Jordan has to deal with a huge 
influx of refugees, disrupted trade routes and a crisis in the tourist industry. Unemployment, as well, is running at a high rate. 
4.124.  Looking forward, Jordan's inherently sound economic policies and growth-enhancing 
reforms should help to reduce its vulnerability to external shocks. We would particularly encourage it to maintain an open trade regime, and to push ahead with its 10-year plan, "Jordan 2025 National Vision and Strategy", which was launched in May 2015. This aims to promote the rule-of-
law and equal opportunities, increase participation in police-making, achieve fiscal sustainability 
and strengthen the institutions. With this programme, Jordan can be seen as a beacon of hope for stability in the region. 
4.125.  Jordan and the Separate Customs Territory of Taiwan, Penghu, Kinmen and Matsu have 
enjoyed a good, on-going bilateral relationship in terms of trade and economic affairs. The total value of two-way trade between us amounted to  about US$370 million in 2014, with plenty of 
potential there for growth in the future. We have a trade and economic representative office in 
Amman, and Jordan has the same in Taipei. 
4.126.  Within the WTO, we and Jordan are fellow Members of the Group of Recently Acceded 
Members, the RAMS group. As the current coordina tor of this group, we would like to take the 
opportunity to express to Jordan our appreciation of  its contributions and its active participation in 
the group, as well as its consistent commitment to strengthening the multilateral trading system. 
MALAYSIA 
4.127.  Malaysia's trade with Jordan is still very modest, leaving much room for expansion. Our 
bilateral trade contracted by almost 25% last year, due to the decline in the importation of some important products including electrical and elec tronic, manufactured of metal and other vegetable 
oils. We, however, remain committed for improved trade and investment between the two 
countries. Malaysia and Jordan has also signed a Bilateral Investment Promotion and Protection Agreement (BIPA) that aims at creating favourable conditions for fostering investments in both countries. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.128.  In 2014, major Malaysia's exports to Jordan include palm oil, chemicals and chemical 
products, processed food and other vegetable oils. Malaysia's imports from Jordan were among others chemicals and chemical products, and some electrical electronic products and agricultural 
products. 
4.129.  Malaysia commends Jordan's active participation in the multilateral trading system and has 
consistently played an important role in the Doha negotiations. Most notably, Jordan is the Chair of ASIAN group and we take this opportunity to thank H.E. Saja Majali for her continued dedication to 
the task. We look forward to working closely with Jordan to achieve concrete deliverables ahead of 
the MC10, in particular in areas of interest of developing countries. 
QATAR 4.130.  Qatar enjoys a deep and broad political and economic relationship with Jordan, In this 
regard, bilateral trade continues to strengthen with merchandise Imports totalling in value of 
around 91,000,000 QAR in Q1 2015, a 25% increase from the same reporting quarter of 2014 while exports to Jordan in Q1 2015 totalled 200,000,000 QR. We continue to enjoy a robust trade 
relationship with several agreements in place including an investment promotion and mutual 
protection agreement, double taxation agreemen t, an agreement regulating the recruitment of 
Jordanian workers and several agreements covering  the fields of air transport, healthcare and 
tourism.   
4.131.  The Jordanian economy has experienced substant ial growth since Jordan's last TPR, with 
annual real GDP growth averaging 5% as it continues to build a diversified and vibrant economy in recognition of Jordan's economic potential total investments originating from Qatar has exceeded 
US$1.6 billion as we expect this figure to continue to increase.   
4.132.  Jordan has undertaken major efforts to support its industrial sector amid a worsening 
regional situation, in which the borders of its two largest trading partners were shut. Among these 
initiatives was Jordan's waiver request to exte nd the phase-out period for its export subsidy 
program. We continue to encourage members to give favourable consideration to Jordan's request to help alleviate some of the difficulties facing small and medium enterprises exports from the 
kingdom. Since the start of the regional crisis , Jordan has accommodated more than 1.4 million 
Syrian refugee's, bringing Jordan's total refug ee population to exceed 2.7 million accounting for 
around 34% for Jordan's total population. As a result, unemployment rate increased to 12.9% 
while key sectors manage to accommodate the burden. We would further like to take this 
opportunity to commend the efforts of the Jordanian Government in managing the influx of 
refugees and maintaining Jordan's resilient economy amid the worsening regional environment.  
4.133.  In conclusion, looking towards the future we expect Jordan to maintain its positive GDP 
growth as it continues to reform its economy in line with the Jordan 2025 Vision. 
TUNISIA 4.134.  I wish to congratulate Jordan for the substantial efforts it has made since its accession to 
the WTO in 2000 to pursue its economic and trade liberalization policy, in particular by further 
opening up its economy, establishing an environm ent conducive to developing investment and by 
expanding and diversifying its trade and econ omic relations with its principal partners. 
4.135.  The various institutional and legislative measures adopted reflect the Jordanian authorities' 
determination to press on with liberalization in conformity with the WTO rules and principles, 
despite a difficult global environment and an unstable regional situation. 
4.136.  Jordan is still affected by the consequences of the civil war in Syria. This has disrupted 
trade, reduced investment, and led to a considerable rise in the number of refugees. In spite of 
these problems, the economy has been very resili ent, with economic growth averaging nearly 
3.5% annually between 2008 and 2014, and imports and exports of both goods and services have 
increased. 
4.137.  The WTO Secretariat report clearly emphasizes that Jordan is aware of these challenges 
and has undertaken to pursue its economic reform programme in the coming years, with a view to WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  unlocking its growth potential, achieving sustainabl e development, improving the quality of life of 
its population, pursuing its structural reforms, and further encouraging private sector participation. 
4.138.  The delegation of Jordan in Geneva, to whom I extend a special welcome, is an active 
participant in the regular work of the WTO and the ongoing round of trade negotiations. In this 
connection, I would like to express my delegation's support for Jordan's call for circumstantial 
flexibilities on subsidies in order to help the country integrate its economic sectors in the world economy and to take advantage of the multilateral trading system. 
4.139.  Tunisia attaches great importance to its long standing cooperative links with Jordan. Our 
two countries are determined to strengthen and consolidate this cooperation in all fields. 
OMAN 4.140.  The Sultanate of Oman has strong fraternal relations with Jordan. We have longstanding 
deep historical and cultural relations, speak the same language and share the same traditions. 
Jordan and Oman are both members of the RAMs  group of countries who joined the WTO under 
Article XII of the Marrakesh Agreement.  
4.141.  Jordan joined the World Trade Organization (WTO) on 11 April 2000, becoming the 136th 
Member of the organization. It agreed to a broad range of obligations in areas such as tariff reductions, non-tariff barriers to trade, services  liberalization, agriculture, and transparency.  
4.142.  We are glad to note that Jordan has made extensive liberalization undertakings under the 
General Agreement on Trade in Services (GATS); these undertakings opened some sectors that were previously closed or were restricted with regard to foreign investment and participation. 
Jordan is considered to be among the small and vulnerable economies (SVEs) and is a Net Food 
Importer Developing Country (NFIDC). 
4.143.  The Jordanian economy has been facing considerable challenges in recent times. 
4.144.  The instability in the region caused by the unrest that has spread, particularly in two of the 
neighbouring countries, had severe impacts on the trade performance of Jordan, and led to the 
loss of many of the traditional markets for Jordanian exports. In the first half of 2015, statistical data shows that the total exports in value, decrea sed by 8.2% in comparison with the same period 
of 2014. Meanwhile, the trade deficit decreased by 18.6% compared with the same period of 2014 
due to the decrease in imports, as a result of the decrease of the value of the crude oil and its 
products imports.  
4.145.  Trade between Jordan and Syria had traditiona lly amounted to around 10% of Jordan's 
total trade with Arab countries. However, the comp lete closure of the border with Syria in 2015 
had a significant negative impact on the Jordanian economy. Exports to Syria declined by 39.1% in the first half of 2015 compared with the same period of 2014. 
4.146.  Moreover, because of the ongoing crisis in Syria, transportation costs drastically increased 
on Jordan's industry for both imports and export s due to longer alternative transportation modes 
and routes. In many cases, no more viable transportation alternatives exist beside sea and 
airfreight.  
4.147.  Exports to Iraq have also declined drastically by 32.1% in the first half of 2015 in 
comparison with the same period of 2014 due to the deteriorating security conditions in the country. The most recent development was the closure of the borders with Iraq in July 2015 
leading to the option of more costly routes through Saudi Arabia and Kuwait. 
4.148.  These are tough times for Jordan. Yet, despite these challenges that it continues to be 
faced with, Oman is pleased to note that Jordan has been able to manage its economy with great 
aplomb. Its average annual GDP growth was 5% in  the last decade. The Secretariat report shows 
that the GDP of Jordan grew annually by 3.5% from 2008 to 2014. This is an impressive 
performance considering that after the financial crisis most countries had relatively low growth 
rates. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.149.  Jordan has not lagged behind in the trade field. Its exports increased by 17% since 2008. 
However, in the first half of 2015 exports decreased by 8%. Jordan has also been attracting Foreign Direct Investment which has been on the increase. 
4.150.  We commend Jordan for having bound its entire  tariff at a relatively low rate of 16% and 
an average applied rate of 10%. 
4.151.  Jordan has also undertaken a number of specific commitments on services. It has recently 
amended a number of intellectual property laws, especially those on trademarks and copyrights. 
4.152.  We are pleased to note that Jordan is a strong supporter of the multilateral trading system. 
It relies heavily on the benefits of the system and supports a fast and comprehensive outcome of the Doha Development Agenda. 
UNITED
 ARAB  EMIRATES 
4.153.  Last week, at the meeting of the CTG, the UAE expressed its full support of the request of 
Jordan for waiver relating to the transitional period for the elimination of the export subsidy programme. We expressed this support for a number of reasons, not least among them the fact 
that Jordan is a Recently Acceded Member (RAM) that falls under the SVEs and is a Net Food 
Importer Developing Country (NFIDC). 
4.154.  We encourage Jordan to continue its active participation in the Doha Development Agenda 
negotiations and its trade policy based on economic openness. 
4.155.  We wish Jordan and the members of its delegation a pleasant stay in Geneva and a 
successful TPR. 
YEMEN 
4.156.  Thank you Mr Chairman for convening the Yemen delegation to this second TPR meeting 
headed by H.E. Ms. Maha Ali, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply, whom assisted Yemen in the course of Yemen accession to the WTO. In that se nse, she is a great supporter of the multilateral 
trading system and the WTO. 
4.157.  Jordan continues to be one of Yemen's most valuable trading partners. The Yemen 
delegation welcomes Jordan trade policy noticeable big steps to continue and advance its economic 
openness, despite adverse conditions mostly crea ted by external circumstances in the region. 
4.158.  On a bright side, Jordan, as a Recently Acceded Member, has well advanced its integration 
into the multilateral trading system and global ec onomy. But, let us not forget that Jordan has 
undertaken extensive and deep commitments on both rules and market access during its accession 
process that was successfully concluded in April 2000. 
4.159.  Jordan development achievement indicators, both human and economic, as well as 
investment climate attractiveness were quite promising since the first TPR in 2008. However, 
several challenges are still facing Jordan development aspiration, including dependence on foreign 
imported inputs with fluctuating costs as well as diminishing traditional markets' share due to instability in neighbouring countries that have negatively affected its exports' potential and 
competitiveness.  
4.160.  During last week CTG meeting, this delegation along with several other delegations, as 
Minister indicated in her opening statement, fully supported Jordan's well-justified revised request for waiver extension to enable depressed small and medium size enterprises in need to overcome 
difficult circumstances and challenges and for a rath er a short duration of three years. The request 
was coupled by a well-defined and purpose-oriented Action Plan. Today, we reiterate our call upon 
the WTO membership to reconsider that request positively, taking into account that this TPR 
exercise shall highlight further Jordan's situatio n and the need for such special treatment, and 
grant the extension request during the first upcoming CTG meeting in 2016. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.161.  Jordan is a key stabilizing country in our region and deserves all the support and 
assistance to overcome ongoing extraordinary challenges.  
EL SALVADOR 
4.162.  Before turning to the review that brings us here, I would like to express sympathy on 
behalf of the Government of El Salvador and convey the personal condolences of Ambassador 
Francisco Alberto Lima Mena to the Government an d people of France following the recent events 
that have plunged so many families in mourning. 
4.163.  We note Jordan's positive economic performance over the period under review, in spite of 
exceptional circumstances that have affected the country in recent years as a result of the political situation in neighbouring countries and the influx of immigrants. All of this notwithstanding, Jordan has posted average GDP growth of 3.7%. We al so note the efforts made by the Jordanian 
Government to address unemployment and other measures adopted, such as structural reforms, 
fiscal consolidation, and improvement of the business climate. 
4.164.  We wish to highlight the openness of Jordan's trade policy despite the global economic 
crisis and the regional challenges mentioned above; this has clearly contributed to boosting the 
country's economic development. 
4.165.  El Salvador and Jordan have historically enjoyed cordial bilateral relations, and although 
trade between the two countries is relatively insignif icant, it has increased over the past five years, 
at an annual rate of 131% over the period 2010 2014. Among El Salvador's main exports to Jordan are coffee, leaflets and similar printed material, and medicines. Our main imports from Jordan include products such as polyethylene hoses and mechanical appliances (whether or not 
hand operated) for agriculture. 
4.166.  At the multilateral level, Jordan has been fairly active in the WTO. We congratulate it on 
the occasion of this review. 
JAPAN 
4.167.  We, Japan and Jordan, have been developing a close cooperative and mutually respectful 
relationship for many years now. We have commended each other on the roles that we have 
played in both the global society and in our ow n regional societies. Particularly, Japan highly 
commends Jordan on the vital role that it has played, and continues to play for peace and stabilization in the region. 
4.168.  Reports by the Secretariat and the Jordanian Government note that the economy has 
gradually recovered to a rate of 3.1% in 2014. Overall, the economy of Jordan has shown its 
resilience to adversities, such as the global financial crisis, disruption of the natural gas supply and the ongoing regional crisis. 
4.169.  In spite of these adversities, Jordan has maintained socio-political stability in the Middle 
East. We positively evaluate Jordan's efforts in this regard. Jordan stability has made Jordan an important business base for international trade in the region. 
4.170.  In addition, Jordan has maintained an op en economy. According to the Heritage 
Foundation's report, Jordan has continuously scored high in terms of trade openness indicators, in which it ranked 38
th overall this year. 
4.171.  This year, Jordan formulated its national strategy, namely "Jordan 2025 – National Vision 
and Strategy". Its basic objective is to realize su stainable economic growth. Japan looks forward to 
seeing Jordan steadily implement this strategy. 
4.172.  Jordan is relatively open to global investment as well, which we also commend. Japan 
recognizes that the Jordanian Government is now focusing on attracting FDI. When our PM, Shinzo 
Abe, visited Jordan at the beginning of this year, Jordan showed a great expectation in this field. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  4.173.  We are aware that Jordan has implemented se veral policies in this field. For example, 
Jordan amended the Investment Law in 2014 with the aim of streamlining investment procedures. Japan encourages Jordan to further improve the investment environment, particularly in regard to several restrictions for FDI. 
4.174.  In terms of trade policy, the Secretariat's report notes that Jordan has seven RTAs in force, 
including agreements with the United States and the EU. It seems that these RTAs have positively impacted trade in Jordan. The Secretariat mentioned that the RTAs have resulted in a significant 
increase in trade flow between Jordan and its RTA partners. 
4.175.  Japan commends Jordan on its efforts to liberalize trade, and hopes that these RTAs will 
both complement and contribute to the multilateral trading system. 
4.176.  In conclusion, I would like to express our strong wish to continue cooperation between 
Jordan and Japan. In spite of the ongoing crisis, Jordan has maintained its stability and an open 
economy. Japan is ready to fully support Jordan's efforts. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF JORDAN AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS 
5.1.  Jordan attaches great importance to the trade policy review mechanism as it constitutes an 
essential contribution to the efforts of the World Trade Organization to increase transparency and promote a better understanding of policies and practices of Member States.    
5.2.  Mr. Chairman, on behalf of the Jordanian delega tion, I would like to express our appreciation 
for the positive and constructive observations and questions from Members during this Trade Policy Review. In total we received 223 questions.  
5.3.  W h i l e  m a n y  o f  t h e  p o i n t s  m a d e  i n  M e m b e r s '  oral statements on Tuesday have been 
addressed in our written responses to questions, we recognize that Members may appreciate additional clarification in areas of particular interest. We will also be providing written responses to the pending questions in due course.  
5.4.  Jordan welcomes Members' recognition on its continued efforts to adopt a trade policy based 
on economic openness despite the several adverse external shocks that hit the global economy in addition to the instability in the Middle East including conflicts escalating in Syria and Iraq that 
have posed unprecedented challenges on Jordan's  economy which, in turn, resulted in Jordan 
submitting its request to the Council for Trade in Goods to extend the transition period of the export subsidy programme beyond 2015. We thank Members who expressed acknowledgement 
and support to this issue. 
5.5.  The burdens faced by Jordan due to regional turbulences put great pressure on its limited 
resources as explained in my opening statemen t. Jordan is hosting Syrians, who represent 
currently 20% of our population, for the fifth year running despite scarcity of resources. Jordan's 
Response Plan which addresses both refugees and host communities is extremely underfunded; 
only 35% of the plan needs have been met. We appreciate the support provided by donor 
countries and the international community. However, we stress the need for continued support to 
enable Jordan to sustain its development gains and objectives, as well as sustain efforts made 
throughout the past years to integrate Jordan into the global economy.  
5.6.  Jordan also appreciates Members' recognition of the Government endeavours to maintain 
political and economic stability. We remain focused on continuing reforms with the view of 
enhancing the investment and business environment.   
5.7.  We took note of Members' interest in Jordan Vision 2025 which was developed upon 
directions of H.M. King Abdullah II. The vision resulted from a wide national consultation and it 
reaffirms Jordan's pursuit to further develop the national economy, and achieve sustainable 
growth. Implementing action plans for the period  2016-2018 were recently endorsed. The action 
plan also identified infrastructure projects with potential to be financed through PPP's. 
5.8.  Let me express my sincere gratitude to all delegations, who have shown a substantial interest 
in the Trade Policy Review of Jordan, especially for the delegations who took the floor on Tuesday: the European Union, Australia, Canada, Brazil, Singapore, China, Mexico, the United States, 
Russia, Saudi Arabia, Argentina, Turkey, Montenegro, Philippines, India, Chinese Taipei, Egypt, 
El Salvador, Pakistan, Malaysia, Tunisia, Qatar,  Oman, United Arab Emirates, Yemen and Japan. 
5.9.  My delegation and I have attentively listened to all the interventions made by Members and 
have also taken note of areas of concern highlighted by them. Allow me at this point to address 
some of the main concerns raised.   
5.10.  Many Members highlighted the new Investment Law and raised comments on measures 
related to foreign equity and land ownership. I wish to inform the Membership that the new 
Investment Law established an Investment Council chaired by H.E the Prime Minister and has in its 
membership five Ministers and six members representing the Private sector  
5.11.  The law grants a wide range of incentives covering the following sectors: industry; 
agriculture; hotels; hospitals; entertainment cities; media production; research centers; 
convention centers; distribution and/or extraction  of water, gas and oil derivatives using pipelines. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  Furthermore, the Investment Council recently took a decision to grant similar incentives to IT and 
Land Transportation sectors. 
5.12.  To enhance transparency to investors, the Investment Commission is in the process of 
issuing a licensing manual that contains the conditions, procedures, requirements and legal 
periods for issuance of licenses. 
5.13.  Moreover, the law empowers the One Stop Shop representatives to issue permits and 
licenses and provide information and services to investors. 
5.14.  On the Government plan to increase women participation in economic and political activities, 
the Government of Jordan has diligently and prog ressively worked on politically and economically 
empowering women over the last decade through both legislative reforms, community awareness, 
outreach and the implementation of sustainable development programs across the country. 
Indicators show that these efforts have started to deliver results that we intend to scale up and 
grow as per our Vision 2025 Document. To date, out of the 1100 SMEs that were supported by Jordan Enterprise Development Corporation from 2009-2015, there are 172 companies owned by 
women.  
5.15.  In the field of political empowerment, women today through quotas have obtained seats in 
parliament and municipalities. 
5.16.  As for comments on strengthening the enforcement of IPR, we welcome the 
acknowledgment of Members that Jordan has a strong regime to protect IPR through relevant laws and regulations. We attach great importance to the enforcement through Jordan Customs, Jordan 
Standards and Metrology Organization and the Nati onal Library. The Amendments to the Copyright 
Law covered effective technological measures, offences, civil liability, passing-off actions, 
confiscation or destruction of goods by court order. 
5.17.  Regarding the comments on Trade Facilitation, Jordan notified Category A commitments and 
stresses the importance of technical assistance to enable developing and least developed countries 
to implement this agreement.  
5.18.  On Government Procurement, Jordan is continuing its efforts in the field of procurement 
reforms. The new draft legislation, which is a key element to the GPA accession, is still under 
review by the Legislative Bureau and relevant Government authorities. 
5.19.  Regarding transparency and fighting corruption. The Jordanian efforts in the fight against 
corruption are based on the strengths of th e Jordanian culture, and on the Kingdom's 
achievements in this area, which requires maintain ing the society's virtuous values and traditions. 
5.20.  Under the directives of His Majesty King Abdullah II, the Government developed the first 
anti- corruption strategy in 2008, and a new anti-corruption strategy was developed for the period 
2013-2017. The Strategy aims at promoting integrity,  establishing the principle of the rule of law 
and respect for human rights. It also promotes transparency, accountability, independence of the judiciary, and community participation.  
5.21.  One of the main milestones of the strategy is  the draft Law on Integrity and Anti-Corruption 
for 2015, which has recently been approved by th e Cabinet and submitted to the Parliament. The 
draft Law aims at reinforcing the principles of justice, accountability and good governance, and unifying the entities related to national integrity and anti-corruption under the umbrella of the 
Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission.  
5.22.  Efforts to combat and control corruption aim at enhancing and upgrading trade and 
investment environment in Jordan. 
5.23.  In conclusion, I would like to once again express Jordan's appreciation to all WTO Members 
for their interest and constructive participation in the second Trade Policy Review of Jordan. It has been an extremely productive and useful exercise for us. WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  5.24.  The active participation of Members demonstrates abiding interest in Jordan's trade policy 
and the desire to mutually deepen trade and economic relations.  
5.25.  We attach great importance to the high level bilateral state visits were mentioned by a 
number of members. We also consider our free trade agreements including those under 
negotiations as a means for advancing bilateral tr ade and investment relations with a view towards 
complementing and strengthening the multilateral trading system. 
DISCUSSANT 
5.26.  Thank you Her Excellency for your statement, for answering the questions that were raised 
and for giving a deeper insight into the issues and in the written comments. I would like to start by thanking you and your delegation for your professional work and the comprehensive answers to all our questions. I would also like to thank the Membership as well for its engagement in this TPR. In 
the WTO, it is said that the Dispute Settlemen t is the crown jewel of the WTO but the TPR is 
extremely important for the Institution. It is highly important that when the negotiating pillar of the WTO is not yielding results that we take active part in the other important pillar, the TPR, and 
you have done that. The Dispute Settlement is the armed wing of the WTO while the TPR is more a 
friendly persuasion exercise. This is, in a way, th e beauty of the TPR, we come, we discuss and we 
talk from our experience. This is very useful for us, it is an important domestic and internal 
exercise and we use the comments to improve legi slations when they are being overhauled. Maybe 
we do not revise a piece of legislation solely because of comments stemming from the TPR exercise, but if we are revising domestic legislation comments and advice from international bodies, such as the TPR mechanism of the WTO, are often taken into account. That is a very useful 
fruit of our endeavour.  
5.27.  You have answered the questions very thoroughly . There are two points that I would like to 
mention. The first one is the underfunded refugee plan. According to my memory, you are 
spending approximately 20% of your budget every year on that, and that is a heavy burden. I 
would like to emphasize your plea to the Membership to assist you. There is a Jordanian saying, correct me if I am wrong: "If you laugh the world laughs with you but if you cry you cry alone". 
We have to say to the international community that you shall not be left alone and that we willing 
showing the people of Jordan solidarity. 
5.28.  On a more positive note, although the snow is coming and the temperatures will drop 
drastically over the week-end, you have a saying that reads "Tomorrow the snow will melt and the 
sun will appear". I hope, not in a literally sense, that we will see, although the situation today may 
not be the most optimistic one, we see light at the end of the tunnel of the situation in Syria and the region.  
5.29.  The last point, and I am abusing my position as a discussant, is about the gender issue that 
I mentioned and I thank you very much for your answer. It is good to hear that you have a wide participation of women in SMEs. I attended a gender equality conference under the auspices of the 
UN lately and it appears that women spend much more wisely than men. If you can unleash this 
energy you will have a strong energy resource. I also know that you have a quota in the Parliament as well and that is positive and could be increased further. 
5.30.  I wish you good luck in your endeavours, I congratulate you in your new position and I wish 
you and your delegation a safe trip back to Amman.  
CHAIRPERSON 5.31.  I thank Ambassador Eyjólfsson for his comments, both on Jordan and on the role of the 
Trade Policy Review Body. Of course, I have to sh are with you my feeling that Member States are 
taking the role of the Trade Policy Review (the meetings, the discussions with the facilitators and 
the proposals) for granted but, unfortunately, this Body does not receive enough attention. I think 
it is worth mentioning the role of this Body as a soft measure, a soft power in the WTO which helps 
Governments to progress based on the dialogue wh ich we have here. Every Government sees the 
problems from outside and Trade Ministers are the most tactic people in the Governments that based on this Trade Policy Review Body are making proposals to liberalize trade and to, of course, 
help the development of their countries.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  EUROPEAN  UNION 
5.32.  The EU would like to thank the delegation of Jordan for the replies it has provided to our 
advance questions as well as for the additional information this morning. We have studied the replies carefully and we do not have any follow-up questions. We have found that this TPR has 
been very useful and an instructive exercise for al l parties and we are glad that Jordan also finds 
that it is the case. 
5.33.  However, we do note that the reply to our question 3 seems to be still outstanding so we 
would like just to reiterate our interest in receiving the reply in due course. 
5.34.  In conclusion, the EU is hopeful that Jordan wi ll take advantage of the comments raised by 
WTO Members during this TPR and we thank Jordan for its constructive participation in this exercise.  WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON 
6.1.  The second Trade Policy Review of Jordan ha s provided us with a good opportunity to 
understand the trade and related policies of Jordan since its last Review in 2008, to study developments since then, and to acknowledge the challenges it faces. The review has benefited 
from the constructive and informative participation of Jordan's delegation, headed by Her 
Excellency, Ms Maha Ali, Minister of Indust ry, Trade and Supply, and from the perceptive 
comments of the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Mart in Eyjólfsson, Permanent Representative of 
Iceland to the WTO.  
6.2.  All Members praised Jordan for the resilience of  its economy, which posted positive economic 
growth despite facing severe adverse circumstances such as: the global economic crisis; regional conflict which consequently has led to an influx of refugees, a decline in tourism and a fall in 
remittances receipts; and to the disruption of gas flows. In this regard the Government's 
macroeconomic policies were lauded. 
6.3.  While noting Jordan's expanding network of regional trade agreements, Members praised 
Jordan's commitment to the WTO and the multilateral trading system, they acknowledged Jordan's 
constructive role in the DDA negotiations and its leadership role when it was coordinator of the Arab Group and as the current coordinator of the Asian Group of Developing Countries. 
6.4.  Several delegations, noted that competivene ss and transparency of the economy and trade 
environment will be improved through the recent  enactments of the Customs Law, Income Tax 
Law, Competition Law, Public Private Partnership Law and the simplification of public procurement 
rules. Members also welcomed Jordan's negotiations towards accession to the plurilateral 
Government Procurement Agreement. 
6.5.  In addition, the new Investment Law, which is designed to reduce the cost of doing business 
and to increase transparency, will benefit the economy. In particular Members were appreciative of 
the Law's initiative to amalgamate all government agencies dealing with investment into a single 
body. However, it was also noted that several rest rictions to foreign investment remain and some 
delegations encouraged Jordan to remove these. In this regard, some Members sought additional 
information on land ownership restrictions, minimum capital requirements, equity ownership 
restrictions, and restrictions on foreign investment in certain service sectors, such as wholesale and retail trade. 
6.6.  With respect to trade facilitation, Members appreciated the notification of Jordan's Category A 
commitments and the adoption of certain measures, such as the Golden List, single window, and 
the implementation of ASYCUDA World. Jordan was also encouraged to ratify the TFA and deposit 
its instrument of acceptance as soon as possible. 
6.7.  While appreciating Jordan's efforts to promote protection and enforcement of intellectual 
property rights, Jordan was urged to further strengthen enforcement in this area. 
6.8.  Members commended Jordan on its planning for future growth as set out in the Jordan 2025 
National Vision and Strategy. Implementation of the Strategy will help to stimulate economic 
growth and social inclusiveness, including gender equality. Jordan's performance in the agriculture sector was also praised but it was encouraged to develop a sustainable agriculture strategy particularly given the constraints on production, especially the lack of water. 
6.9.  I also noted the broad support for Jordan's requ est for the extension, by three years, of the 
period for phasing out an export subsidy programme which is currently under discussion in the Council for Trade in Goods. 
6.10.  Certain Members also raised concerns about specific issues including safeguard measures on 
paper, the import processing fee, some SPS measures, and the acceptance of test certificates for certain goods from the country of export. Some de legations also encouraged the further reduction 
of tariff and non-tariff measures , and tariff rationalization. 
6.11.  This second Trade Policy Review of Jordan wa s successfully concluded to the benefit of all 
the Membership. I am certain that Jordan will find useful the extensive and fruitful discussion as WT/TPR/M/325 • Jordan 
 
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  well as the insights provided by Members during the review and will take them into account to 
further develop its trade and economic policies to enhance the competitiveness of the economy and improve the livelihood of its population. The large number of advance written questions and interventions by delegations highlights the importance Members attach to Jordan's trade and 
related policies and its important role in the multilateral trading system.  
6.12.  In closing, I would like to thank Minister Maha Ali and the rest of her delegation, 
Ambassador Martin Eyjólfsson as discussant, the Members, and the Secretariat for their 
contributions to the second Trade Policy Review of Jordan.  
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