Amman, July 9 (Petra) — The Jordan Customs Department and private
sector representatives on Thursday discussed ways to strengthen
strategic partnership, enhance trade facilitation, and boost the
competitiveness of the national economy during a Partnership Council
meeting hosted by the Irbid Chamber of Commerce.

The meeting brought together Jordan Chamber of Commerce President
Khalil Haj Tawfiq, Director General of Jordan Customs Brig. Gen.
Ahmad Akalik, Irbid Chamber of Commerce President Mohammad Shouha,
and representatives of the chambers of commerce and industry, the
Jordan Free Zones Investors Commission, the Syndicate of Owners of
Clearance and Cargo Transport Companies, and other relevant
institutions. The meeting was held as part of the department’s
ongoing efforts to strengthen institutional communication and foster
effective partnerships with the private sector.

Shouha underscored the importance of continued cooperation and
coordination between Jordan Customs and the private sector to help
overcome challenges and support trade and investment.

Discussions focused on several priorities for the business community,
including strengthening strategic partnerships, enhancing the
competitiveness of the national economy, advancing digital
transformation and innovation in customs operations, developing risk
management and compliance systems, expanding the Authorized Economic
Operator (AEO) Program, known locally as the Golden List, supporting
investment, and promoting green trade and sustainability.

During the meeting, the Customs Department also presented its
institutional culture framework as a key enabler of organizational
excellence and improved service delivery. The framework is built on
the principles of integrity, transparency, teamwork, innovation,
customer focus, and partnership with the private sector to enhance
operational efficiency, expedite customs procedures, drive continuous
improvement, and deliver higher-quality and more effective customs
services that support the business environment and the national
economy.

Private sector representatives commended the Customs Department for
its facilitation measures, efficient service delivery, and
responsiveness to the needs of various sectors. They also stressed
the importance of continuing Partnership Council meetings and
strengthening dialogue between Jordan Customs and the private sector
to address challenges, improve services and procedures, and align
with international best practices in support of the national economy
and its competitiveness.

//Petra// AJ