Challenges

• Meager natural resources
• Insufficient supplies of water, oil, and other natural resources
• Economic difficulties
• Poverty, unemployment, and inflation
• Regional events
• The Iraq war and the Arab-Israeli conflict have resulted in a massive influx of refugees to Jordan and have increased internal tensions

Economic Development
Since 1999, King Abdullah has promoted significant economic reform by:

• Increasing privatization
• Conducting careful monetary policy
• Reducing the debt to GDP ratio
• Initiating membership in the WTO
• Securing a Free Trade Agreement with the U.S.
• Welcoming foreign investment
• Reducing regulatory burdens for businesses
• Investing in health and education
• Strengthening property rights
• These measures have improved productivity and increased foreign investment in Jordan
• Intellectual property protection has spurred significant growth in the IT and pharmaceutical industries
• Jordan must continue to attract more foreign investment to promote job creation and further economic growth

Advantages of doing business in Jordan

• Friendly and welcoming culture
• Open attitude toward foreign investors
• Favorable tax structure
• Flexible regulatory structure
• Free Trade Agreement with USA
• Relatively stable political and economic environment
• Seen as a gateway to the Middle East
• Local market depends significantly on imports
• Adequate infrastructure and services

Major Sectors

• Safety & Security
• Energy
• Automotive
• Building & Construction
• Information Technology
• Medical & Health

Important Resources