Zarqa, July 5 (Petra) – Industrial exports from Zarqa increased by
15% during the first half of 2026, driven by stronger demand in Arab
markets, according to figures released by the Zarqa Chamber of
Industry.

Chamber President Fares Hamouda said total exports reached $769
million, up from $666.2 million in the same period last year. Exports
in June alone surged 64% to $163.8 million, compared with $100
million in June 2025.

Arab countries remained the largest export destination, accounting
for 46% of total exports at $353.3 million, a 20% increase
year-on-year. Iraq was the leading market with $168.5 million in
exports, up 49%, followed by Saudi Arabia with $77.9 million and the
UAE with $18.8 million.

Exports to North America rose 12% to $304.4 million, representing 40%
of total exports. Shipments to the United States reached $293.2
million, while exports to Canada increased 20% to $10.1 million.

Exports to non-Arab Asian countries climbed 47% to $62.6 million,
while exports to the European Union declined 5% to $19 million.

By sector, leather and textiles remained the largest contributor with
$321.3 million in exports, up 10%.

Food, beverages, agriculture and livestock products ranked second
with $184.4 million, marking the strongest growth at 47%.
Engineering, electrical and IT exports rose 13% to $73.8 million,
while construction exports fell 20% to $56.7 million.

Packaging and paper exports increased 49% to $42.2 million, plastics
and rubber exports rose 50% to $28.4 million and chemical and
cosmetics exports remained steady at $37.1 million.

Exports of therapeutic and medical supplies declined 15% to $23.3
million.

//Petra// AK