Amman, February 6 (Petra) – An annual report on the progress of the Economic Modernization Vision 2023-2025 executive program outlined key achievements in Jordan’s logistics and transportation sector in 2024.
According to the report, the extension of the Aqaba Container Terminal agreement includes a total investment of $242 million aimed at enhancing port efficiency, modernizing infrastructure, and developing technological systems. A key objective of this extension is achieving carbon neutrality by 2040 as part of broader efforts to reduce carbon emissions and strengthen the port’s role as a leading regional logistics hub.
The report highlighted the completion of a study on land freight costs in relation to total fuel expenses, alongside the development of wage and cost equations. A tender was also issued for establishing an integrated national system and transport document for a unified transport system project.
Legislative and procedural updates were implemented to facilitate transport and trade, including revised instructions for maritime pollution prevention, amended regulations governing maritime agencies, and new licensing guidelines for drone operations.
Significant infrastructure projects were also advanced, including the development of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority Customs Center, with comprehensive maintenance and upgrades to lighting and air conditioning systems. Additionally, work commenced on the Durra border crossing project, valued at JD22 million, which is expected to accommodate 4 million travelers annually and facilitate smoother movement of goods and passengers.
In support of e-commerce, a dedicated center was inaugurated in the al-Muqablin area, featuring a storage space of approximately 6,000 square meters. This initiative aims to streamline e-commerce logistics, reduce costs for consumers, and expedite parcel deliveries.
At Queen Alia International Airport, several modernization efforts were completed, including full technical integration between the Customs Department and security services, as well as the installation and operation of a baggage tracking system.
The new Amman Customs Center was also opened in the Madona area, designed to expedite customs procedures and reduce import and export costs. Additionally, the Golden List component of the ASYCUDA system was enhanced, with four new companies added in 2024, bringing the total to 131, including 18 national firms.
The report also noted progress in key infrastructure projects, including the preparation of initial studies and financial models for the King Abdullah II Road Development Project and structural assessments for a toll-road system on the Amman Development Corridor, Phase I.
The logistics and transportation sector contributed 6.25 percent to Jordan’s GDP in 2023. The Queen Alia International Airport 4.8-megawatt solar energy project reached a 97 percent completion rate, while the Airside Rehabilitation and Operation of Amman Civil Airport – Marka achieved 92 percent completion. Additionally, 173 buses equipped with smart transportation systems now operate within the Greater Amman Municipality.
The second phase of the Approvals and Prior Licenses Platform project expanded to include four entities, and customs efficiency improvements led to a 15.5 percent reduction in smuggling operations, a 3.8 percent increase in collected customs duties, and a 7.2 percent rise in imports subject to customs duties. The rate of baggage inspections at Queen Alia International Airport also decreased by 15 percent.
//Petra// AJ
06/02/2025 15:26:13
