Amman, May 24 (Petra) — Jordan’s trade and services sector is far more than a mere component of the national economy; over the past decades, it has stood as a living testament to the remarkable story of a modern nation’s birth and growth.

As Jordan prepares to celebrate its 79th Independence Day, this vital sector reflects a journey of overcoming challenges, navigating complexities, and achieving significant milestones by investing in its people and resources, all in service of its citizens.

The transformation is striking. From humble, scattered traditional markets in its early days, the sector – central to the economic and daily life of Jordanians – has evolved into a sophisticated, integrated commercial ecosystem.

Today, it boasts major modern shopping centres, cross-border service companies, and an open market deeply connected to the global economy. Trade was, indeed, one of the foundational stones in Jordan’s path of progress.

Evolving from a rural, agriculture-based exchange, the commercial and service sector ascended the ladder of modernity, with its pioneers standing firmly alongside their young state, becoming integral to the very fabric of the nation’s construction.

This journey has seen the national economy burgeon from a handful of establishments to over 150,000 officially registered commercial and service companies spread across the Kingdom.

Crucially, independence unlocked the gateway to the world, transitioning Jordan from geographically limited trade to a dynamic international player, underpinned by strong global relationships and numerous trade agreements that have streamlined operations and dismantled barriers.

Reflecting on this journey, Senator Khalil Al-Haj Tawfiq, Chairman of both the Jordan and Amman Chambers of Commerce, highlighted the sector’s immense achievements, spurred by the Hashemite leadership’s unwavering commitment to building a prosperous, open national economy.

“The Gross Domestic Product (GDP) has climbed from mere hundreds of millions at independence to JD 36.078 billion in 2023,” he told Petra.

“As Jordan celebrates its glorious Independence Day,” Al-Haj Tawfiq continued, “we look with pride at our economic accomplishments, especially considering the harsh regional and global headwinds faced – from a global pandemic to geopolitical turmoil.

These achievements, forged by the hands of Jordanians, have always been supported by our Hashemite leadership, fostering a spirit of production and collaboration.”

He emphasized that independence is not just a date to celebrate, but a “renewed impetus” to enhance economic performance, embrace new markets, and expand international partnerships. “What has been achieved,” he asserted, “would not have been possible without the genuine partnership between the public and private sectors, guided by the comprehensive national vision of His Majesty King Abdullah II, who places the Jordanian citizen at the heart of all development.”

This resilience is evidenced by compelling figures. Per capita GDP rose to JD 3,228 last year from JD 1,278 in 2001. Jordanian exports surged dramatically from around JD 4 million in 1960 to JD 8.579 billion in 2023, while imports grew from approximately JD 43 million to JD 19.110 billion over the same period.

Constituting about 70 percent of GDP and employing over half a million registered workers, the trade and services sector is undeniably the primary engine of Jordan’s economy.

Al-Haj Tawfiq underscored its role in providing goods and services, creating jobs, enhancing the business environment, and strengthening economic ties globally.

“The esteemed Royal patronage has provided the sector with the elements for continuity and growth, paving the way for major investments,” he said, noting the sector’s success in integrating into the world economy through a series of key free trade agreements – making Jordan unique among Arab nations in its extensive network of such pacts.

Today, Jordan stands as an attractive hub for trade and investment, thanks to its hallmark security and stability, abundant opportunities, ambitious economic reforms, and major infrastructure projects like the Aqaba Special Economic Zone, industrial cities, and development zones.

Senator Al-Haj Tawfiq lauded His Majesty’s efforts in crafting the Economic Modernization Vision – a cross-governmental roadmap for the Kingdom’s second century – and his focus on comprehensive reforms and the empowerment of youth and women.

Looking ahead, Al-Haj Tawfiq stressed the need for unified efforts between the public and private sectors to implement the Economic Modernization Vision swiftly. He affirmed the Jordan Chamber of Commerce’s commitment to supporting the sector, attracting investment, and building robust international networks.

“Independence Day,” he concluded, “serves as a powerful catalyst for Jordanians to redouble their efforts, continue the path of development, and protect our achievements.” On behalf of the entire trade and services sector, he extended heartfelt congratulations to the Kingdom and its wise Hashemite leadership, praying for Jordan’s continued progress and prosperity.

//Petra// AA
24/05/2025 11:50:45