Jordan

Jordan Market Profile
Table of Contents
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Country Information
Basic Data
Executive Summary
Economic Indicators
Economic Trends
Government Role
Balance of Payment
Domestic Figures
Foreign Trade
Export Potential
Import Potential
Trade Statistics
Investment
Investment Regulations
Investment Climate
Logistics
Road Transport
Sea Transport
Air Transport
Freight Forwarding
Warehousing
Market Access
Trade Policy
Tariff Barriers
Free Zones
Distribution Channels
Trade Agreements
Restricted Products
Exchange Rates
Trade Documents
Trade Fairs
Advertizing Media
Property Rights
Quality Standards
Packing, Marking and Labeling
Mail Shipments
Trade Finance
Financing Facilities
National Agencies
Country Information
Basic Data
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Area: 89,342 Square Km
Population: 5 Million (2000)
Population Growth Rate: 2.8 percent (1999 - 2000)
Religion: Islam, Christianity
Government System: Constitutional Monarchy.
Languages: Arabic (official), English widely spoken
Weights and Measures: Metric system.
Electricity: A.C.50 cycles, 220/380 volts.

Principal Cities: Amman (capital) (1,917,340), Irbid (898,955), Zarqa
(792,635), Aqaba (101,285), Karak (202,570)
Currency: The unit is the Jordanian Dinar (JD) divided into 1,000 Fils
(which is equivalent to US$ 1.41).
Climate: Mild Mediterranean climate
Work Week: Government offices generally are open: From 8 a.m. to 3

p.m. Sunday - Thursday
Business offices generally are open: From 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3:30
p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
During winter months offices close around 6 p.m. and many are closed
either on Sunday or Thursday afternoons.
Banking hours is 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

During the Moslem month of Ramadan, all working hours are
shortened, and government and business activities are curtailed
considerably
Direct Dial Country Code: Country Code (962), Amman (6), Irbid (2),
Aqaba (3), Zerqa (5)
Holidays: January 1, January 30, May 1, May 25, November 14,

December 25 and all Islamic holy days are national holy days and are
based on the lunar calendar.
Friday and Saturday are the official weekly holiday.
Principal Imports: Foodstuff, machinery, transport equipment ,

manufactured goods, mineral fuels and lubricants, live animals.
Principal Exports: Mineral and mineral-related products (potash and

phosphate), foodstuff, chemicals (paints, detergents,
pharmaceuticals), cosmetics (Dead Sea Products), handicrafts, textiles
(carpets, rugs, clothes) & plastic products.
Time: GMT (+ 2 in winter, + 3 in summer), or 7 hours ahead of US

Eastern Standard Time. Summer time is observed from April through
September.
Business Travel
Business Customs
The use of electronic mail (e-mail) is increasingly common as Internet-
borne communication links are developed in Jordan. The use of quick-
payment methods is also becoming customary among Jordanian
businesses. The average Jordanian businessperson visits at least two
international shows a year, and prefers to schedule other business
activities around such events.
Travel and Visa Requirements
Visas are required for entry into Jordan. Fees and length of stay vary
according to the visitor’s nationality. Visas can be obtained from either
a Jordanian diplomatic mission, or for some nationalities, at point of
entry.
Work permits are required from the Ministry of Labor, and are issued
for a period of one year.
Health certificate: Not required.
Business Infrastructure
The business infrastructure in Jordan is reasonably well developed with

regard to business services, mail, and fax, telex and telephone
networks. Business office space is available in major cities. In the
business areas of Amman, rent for vacant offices range between US$
5,000-7,000 per year. Most Jordanian hotels have business service
offices for traveling business people. Car rental facilities are available
in Jordan and some major hotels offer airport-to-hotel transport and
assistance at airport customs clearance points. English is widely
spoken in Jordan.
Executive Summary
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In 2000, Jordan's GNP grew at a rate of 5.7 percent while inflation was
held to under 0.7 percent and GDP (at current market prices) is
estimated at US$ 8440 million with growth rate equals 3.9%, while the
Per Capita GDP reaches US$ 1675.
In addition to the large-scale industries in Jordan which include

mining, Cement, fertilizers and refined petroleum. Jordan, today has
been focusing on high value added manufacturing industries such as
foodstuff, pharmaceuticals, paints, cosmetics (Dead Sea products),
chemicals & other consumer products.
In 2001, the external trade of Jordan amounted to US$ 7127 million of

which import constituted 67.8%, exports 26.7% and re-export 5.4%.
The Investment Promotion Law accords generous and attractive

incentives to domestic as well as international investors in terms of
freedom from customs duties, tax holidays, income tax exemptions
and unrestricted transfer of capital and profits. The implementation of
this law is vested in the Jordan Investment Board which is the only
national entity charged with the promotion of investment in Jordan.
The law irrevocably affirms that both Jordanian and non-Jordanian
investors are treated as equals.
Some of the most outstanding economic events during 2000 and 2001,
were Jordan's becoming the 136th member of the WTO, the signing of
a Free Trade Agreement with the USA and the EFTA States, and the
announcement of Aqaba as a Special Economic Zone and developing
the field of Information Technology and Communications in Jordan.
In-order to liberate the national economy and increase the flow of

foreign capital, the government of Jordan has initiated a privatization
program designed to activate the role and efficiency of private
investors in the long-term development plans of the kingdom.
Economic Indicators
Balance of Payment
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The overall balance of payments achieved a surplus that amounted to

US$ 948.2 million in 2000, with growth rate equals 52.5%.
The service balance surplus reached 24.1% of GDP in 2000, up from

21.1% in 1999 with growth rate equals 14.2% . Official statistics show
that the surplus increased from US$ 1713.8 million in 1999 to US$
2,035.9 million in 2000.
For further information please contact the Central Bank of Jordan at

the following address:
Central Bank of Jordan
P.O. Box 37
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
http://www.cbj.gov.jo
Domestic Economic Figures
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Item 1999 2000

GDP (Current market Prices)( Million US$) 8123.0 8439.6
GNP (Current market Prices)( Million US$) 8110.7 8574.1
GDP (Basic Prices 1994) 6836.8 7318.7
GDP growth rate% (Current Prices) 2.8 3.9
GDP growth rate% (Basic Prices) 2.8 7
GDP per capita (current) US$ 1657.7 1674.6
Inflation ( %) 0.6 0.7
Unemployment (%) 15.6 * 13.7 *
Avg. exchange rate (US$ 1 to JD1) 1.41 1.41
Source: Central Bank of Jordan

* Source: Statistical Yearbook 2000 / Department of Statistics
Economic Trends
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In 2000, Jordan's GDP (at current market prices) is estimated at US$

8440 million with growth rate equals 3.9%, while the Per Capita GDP
reaches US$ 1675.
The services sector, which is comprised of financial services, trade,

transportation, communication, construction, and education,
contributes 79% to the GDP and employees two-thirds of the labor
force. The Remaining 21% is contributed by the agriculture and
industrial sectors.
In addition to the large-scale industries in Jordan which include

mining, Cement, fertilizers and refined petroleum. Jordan, today has
been focusing on high value added manufacturing industries such as
foodstuff, pharmaceuticals, paints, cosmetics (Dead Sea products),
chemicals & other consumer products.
In 2001, the external trade of Jordan amounted to US$ 7127 million of

which import constituted 67.8%, exports 26.7% and re-export 5.4%.
Major Jordanian imports are foodstuff, machinery, and transport

equipment, manufactured goods, mineral fuels and lubricants. While
the main exports are mineral and mineral-related products (potash
and phosphate), foodstuff, chemicals (paints, detergents,
pharmaceuticals), cosmetics (Dead Sea Products), handcrafts, textiles
(carpets, rugs, clothes) & plastic products.
Jordan's main trade partners are European Union countries, United

States, Japan, Arab countries, & India.
The most outstanding economic events and improvements ( 2000-

2001)
Jordan's official membership in the World Trade Organization.

Signing of the Free Trade Agreement with United States.
Announcing of Aqaba as a Special Economic Zone.
Developing the field of Information Technology and
Communications in Jordan.
Intensifying all aspects of the privatization process.
Encouraging investments
Devising new strategies to advance the economy and bringing it
out of the recession.
Major Political Issues Affecting the Business Climate
Jordan's economy & it's business climate has been deeply affected by
the regional circumstances such as:
The setback in the peace process.

The escalation in Israeli violence against Palestinians.
The sanctions on Iraq.
The fluctuating oil prices.


P.O. Box 37
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
Government Role in the Economy
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In-order to liberate the national economy and increase the flow of

foreign capital, the government of Jordan has initiated a privatization
program designed to activate the role and efficiency of private
investors in the long-term development plans of the kingdom.
In 1996 the Telecommunication Corporation and the Jordanian

electricity authority were both transformed into a public shareholding
companies fully owned by the government as a first step towards full
privatization. By the end of 1997, the government had sold off all its
other holdings in companies where the original stake was 5% or less.
The privitization of the Telecommunication Company was finalized on

January 23, 2000 when the government sold 40% of its shares to a
conglomerate comprising France Telecom and a group of banks headed
by the Arab Bank at a total cost of US$ 508 Million, and a 33% share
in the Jordan Cement Company. 40% of state-owned Aqaba Railways
has been sold to a consortium of American, Japanese and Jordanian
companies.
On August 28, 2000 an agreement was signed involving the sale of the
Duty Free Shops Co. of Royal Jordanian (the national air carrier) to a
Spanish Co. (Diasa) and a tender to sell the Engine Restoration Center
pertaining to RJ and is expected to be finalized soon.
Foreign Trade
Jordan's Exports to Arab Countries (1999-2001)
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(Value:000 US$)
Country 1999 2000 2001
Iraq 113,170.42 140,920.28 227,005.77
Syria 18,630.28 23,296.20 36,108.31
Algeria 17,112.25 19,068.73 29,266.90
Morocco 3,660.28 2,237.18 3,226.62
Kuwait 28,404.65 27,524.93 34,954.65
Libya 19,063.94 23,194.23 28,709.30
United Arab Emirates 86,968.45 67,095.07 82,740.70
Bahrain 14,756.20 14,889.01 18,310.99
Oman 12,413.94 11,366.90 13,455.49
Qatar 22,162.11 21,342.39 25,134.23
Tunisia 7,072.25 5,199.15 6,121.83
Sudan 16,541.55 19,431.55 22,598.59
Lebanon 31,528.03 33,975.49 38,952.82
Yemen 16,150.14 15,711.83 16,435.49
Saudi Arabia 140,304.79 129,646.62 134,419.86
Djibouti 630.85 890.42 786.20
Egypt 21,668.59 23,830.56 20,910.28
Somalia 368.45 580.14 498.17
Source: Department of Statistics
For further information, please contact the Department of Statistics at

Department of Statistics
P.O. Box 2015
Amman - Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5300700
Fax: +962 6 5300710
E-Mail: [email protected]
http://www.dos.gov.jo
Jordan's Imports to Arab Countries (1999-2001)
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(Value:000 US$)
Country 1999 2000 2001
Algeria 1,705.35 763.10 389.72
Libya 39.86 173.38 802.25
United Arab Emirates 36,806.62 49,122.39 58,499.15
Kuwait 13,519.58 17,193.80 18,258.17
Yemen 2,175.77 2,073.80 1,847.75
Bahrain 4,792.96 7,053.38 7,869.15
Qatar 5,680.42 9,534.65 15,650.99
Sudan 16,871.41 17,272.82 16,360.85
Tunisia 855.07 573.10 1,314.51
Oman 7,026.34 8,969.30 10,315.07
Lebanon 35,752.82 38,832.68 44,122.82
Morocco 4,044.65 4,448.17 11,211.83
Saudi Arabia 151,036.90 149,560.00 155,731.55
Syria 48,992.68 44,823.52 65,494.51
Egypt 41,066.06 43,462.11 51,329.86
Iraq 416,938.87 681,600.28 683,330.70
Source: Department of Statistics

Department of Statistics
P.O. Box 2015
Amman - Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5300700
Fax: +962 6 5300710
http://www.dos.gov.jo
Export Potential
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Mineral and mineral-related products (potash and phosphate),

foodstuff, chemicals (paints, detergents, pharmaceuticals), cosmetics
(Dead Sea Products), handcrafts, textiles (carpets, rugs, clothes) &
plastic products.
Food and live Animals:
- Dairy Products and Eggs

- Cereal Preparations
- Vegetables
Beverages and Tobacco
Crude Materials, Inedible, Except Fuels:
- Phosphates
- Potash
Animal and Vegetable Oils, Fats and Waxes
Chemicals
- Carbonates
- Phosphoric Acid
- Dyeing, Tanning & Coloring Materials
- Medical and Pharmacy Products
- Polishing & Cleaning Preparations & Perfume Materials
- Plastics
- Fertilizers
Manufactured Goods
- Paper and Cardboard

- Cement
- Worked Monumental or Building Stone
- Clothes
- Footwear
- Printed Matter
- Plastic Products


P.O. Box 37
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
Import Potential
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Foodstuff, machinery, transport equipment , manufactured goods,

mineral fuels and lubricants, live animals.
Food and Live Animals
- Live Animals
- Meat & Fish
- Wheat and Flour of Wheat
- Rice
- Barley
- Maize
- Nuts
- Sugar
- Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Spices
- Fodder
Beverages and Tobacco
Crude Materials, Inedible Except Fuels
- Wood and Cork

- Pulp and Waste Paper
- Textile fibers and their Wastes
- Crude Minerals & crude Fertilizers
Mineral Fuels and Lubricants
- Crude Oil
- Petroleum Products
Animal and Vegetable Oils, Fats and Waxes
Chemicals
- Ammonia
- Dyeing, Tanning & Coloring Materials
- Medical & Pharmacy Products
- Polishing & Cleaning Preparations
- Fertilizers
- Plastic
Manufactured Goods
- Furnitures
- Rubber Products
- Cork & Wood Manufactures (Excluding furniture)
- Paper and Cardboard
- Textile Yarn, Fabrics, Made up Articles & Related Products
- Clothing & Footwear
- Iron & Steel
Machinery & Transport Equipment


P.O. Box 37
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
Major Jordanian Domestic Exports (1999-2001)
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(Value: 000 US$)

Item 1999 2000 2001
0-Food and live Animals 179,407 163,975 190,996
Live Animals 34,217 21,970 6,131
Dairy Products and Eggs 9,955 9,145 10,094
Cereals and Cereal Preparations 2,773 3,245 2,968
Vegetables 93,627 83,252 116,020
Fruits and Nuts 16,501 17,944 17,101
Fodder 11,137 17,486 21,987
1- Beverages and Tobacco 4,272 12,107 32,075
Beverages 1,570 4,341 8,715
Tobacco & Manufactured 2,703 7,766 23,361
Substitutes
2- Crude Materials, Inedible, 373,151 351,135 354,752
Except Fuels
Phosphates 162,204 127,977 129,603
Potash 177,403 194,452 194,918
3- Mineral Fuels, Lubricants and 54 139 210
Related Materials
4-Animal and Vegetable Oils, Fats 69,162 63,001 58,661
and Waxes
Vegetable Fats or Oils and their 52,525 57,673 55,061
Fractions Hydrogenated
5-Chemicals 496,518 488,959 485,572
Complex Fluorine Salts 8,754 8,946 8,689
Sulfuric Acid,Oleum 5,775 2,962 1,294
Carbonates 13,335 12,444 10,296
Phosphoric Acid 91,514 103,785 52,134
Dyeing, Tanning & Coloring 10,700 13,993 13,375
Materials
Medical and Pharmacy Products 142,676 156,162 182,649
Polishing & Cleaning Preparations 54,877 49,032 46,630
& Perfume Materials
Plastics & Articles thereof 32,097 28,010 45,976
Fertilizers 110,175 84,180 86,046
6-Manufactured Goods Classified 153,028 160,027 237,024
by Material
Paper and Cardboard 45,410 55,531 70,793
Textile Yarn, Fabrics, Made up 35,855 28,577 29,682
Articles
Cement 23,330 22,996 35,563
Worked Monumental or Building 10,742 5,052 4,265
Stone
7- Machinery and Transport 95,810 97,539 173,256
Equipment
Buses 12,201 21,427 30,689
8-Miscellaneous Manufactured 109,252 185,207 371,182
Articles
Clothes 49,187 106,924 286,776
Footwear 4,151 4,865 2,770
Printed Matter 11,972 11,966 12,038
Plastic Products 14,727 16,097 11,408
Total Domestic Exports 1480,779 1522,277 1903,807
* Preliminary
Central Bank of Jordan (March 2002)


P.O. Box (37)
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
Major Jordanian Imports (1999-2001)
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(Value:000 US$)
Item 1999 2000 *2001
0-Food and Live Animals 681,877 746,331 732,128
Live Animals 34,210 49,272 45,875
Meat, Fish and preparations 68,542 75,477 71,837
thereof
Dairy Products and Eggs 57,659 67,807 68,011
Wheat and Flour of Wheat 59,142 96,762 99,230
Rice 48,290 40,817 38,375
Barley 79,161 54,245 44,341
Maize 52,428 51,475 52,552
Fruits, Vegetables, Nuts 82,341 90,610 90,325
Sugar 43,217 45,376 61,924
Coffee, Tea, Cocoa, Spices and 37,810 47,114 38,627
Manufactures thereof
Fodder 69,023 76,483 66,465
1-Beverages and Tobacco 37,999 46,501 45,870
Tobacco and Tobacco 31,449 38,320 38,494
Manufactures
2- Crude Materials, Inedible 118,851 146,183 148,975
Except Fuels
Oil Seeds Oleaginous Fruit 16,555 15,739 16,306
Wood and Cork 20,148 23,835 30,787
Pulp and Waste Paper 7,773 29,979 26,359
Textile fibers and their Wastes 22,234 25,758 26,308
Crude Minerals & crude Fertilizers 37,289 36,452 34,730
3- Minerals Fuels and Lubricants 449,361 716,635 700,792
Crude Oil 310,534 525,537 543,483
Petroleum Products 102,917 142,641 113,679
4-Animal and Vegetable Oils, Fats 62,866 56,194 53,882
and Waxes
Crude Palm Oil 15,259 18,334 6,125
5- Chemicals 470,727 492,399 533,301
Ammonia 35,962 24,289 25,738
Dyeing,Tanning & Coloring 16,311 18,417 24,617
Materials
Medical & Pharmacy Products 145,799 145,159 156,856
Polishing & Cleaning Preparations 31,644 34,003 35,948
Fertilizers 13,615 13,285 11,570
Plastic & Article thereof 98,065 116,766 132,430
6- Manufactured Goods Classified 551,034 695,383 932,254
Rubber Products 38,149 37,713 32,710
Cork & Wood Manufactures 18,010 29,987 32,706
(Excluding furniture)
Paper and Cardboard 74,589 95,066 116,192
Textile Yarn, Fabrics, Made up 113,072 179,803 299,796
Articles & Related Products
Iron & Steel 138,904 143,689 213,146
7- Machinery & Transport 1,020,952 1,311,428 1,309,048
Equipment
Power Generating Machinery & 18,000 27,449 28,438
Equipment
Machinery Specialized for 115,859 120,561 117,113
Agriculture Industry, and
Construction Sectors
Office Machines and Automatic 51,482 64,937 114,725
Data, Processing Equipment
Telecommunications 75,544 132,623 225,990
Electrical Machinery, Apparatus 115,899 123,377 147,817
and Appliances
Other Machinery and Equipment 130,287 185,038 161,665
Transport Equipment's and Spare- 515,290 657,444 513,304
parts
8-Miscellaneous Manufactured 254,435 254,656 287,841
Articles
Clothing & Footwear 74,448 73,614 76,849
Professional, Scientific and 61,007 47,044 64,215
Controlling
9- Commodities and Transactions 63,458 124,999 93,254
not classified Elsewhere
Total Imports 3711,559 4590,710 4837,344
*Preliminary
Central Bank of Jordan (March 2002)


P.O. Box (37)
Amman 11118-Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
Jordanian Trade (1999 - 2001)
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Jordanian Trade to/from Arab Countries
(Value: 000 US$)

Item 1999 2000 2001
Jordanian Domestic Exports to Arab 600985.9 607446.5 764090.1
Countries
Jordanian Imports from Arab 801880.3 1089775 1156623
Countries
Jordanian Trade
(Value:000 US$)
Year Import Domestic Export Re-Export Total Export
1999 3711559.0 1480779.6 348399.0 1829178.6
2000 4590709.4 1522277.0 374316.6 1896593.6
2001 4837343.7 1903807.5 385896.3 2289703.8


P.O. Box (37)
Amman 11118-Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
Investment
Investment Climate
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In the belief that an efficient regulatory framework stimulates the role

of the private sector, Jordan has recognized the need to establish
business-friendly structures with strong incentives to entrepreneurial
initiative. His Majesty King Abdullah has identified increased
investment as a national goal, and foreign direct investment (FDI),
together with domestic investment, is the surest catalyst for creating
sustainable economic growth. With the establishment of the
Investment Promotion Law in 1995, and with other subsequent actions
designed to enhance the investment environment, Jordan has opened
its economy to the wealth creation that business and investment bring.
The Investment Promotion Law accords generous and attractive

incentives to domestic as well as international investors in terms of
freedom from customs duties, tax holidays, income tax exemptions
and unrestricted transfer of capital and profits. The implementation of
this law is vested in the Jordan Investment Board which is the only
national entity charged with the promotion of investment in Jordan.
The law irrevocably affirms that both Jordanian and non-Jordanian
investors are treated as equals.
Incentives and Benefits
A. Income and Social Service Taxes Exemptions:
Projects approved by the Investment Committee enjoy a ten year

exemption from income and social services taxes at the following rates
depending on the sector and the area in which the project is located:
Projects in zone A 25%

Projects in zone B 50%
Projects in zone C 75%
Where a project is expanded, improved or modernized so as to

increase its production capacity, it shall receive an additional year of
exemption for every increase of production, which is not less than
25%, for a maximum of four years.
B. Customs Tax Exemptions:
Imported fixed assets required for the project are exempted from
customs taxes and fees for a period of three years starting from the
date approval is granted.
Imported fixed assets needed for expanding, modernizing, or

developing a project are exempted from customs taxes and fees, if this
results in an increase of a minimum of 25% of the production capacity.
Spare parts imported for the project are exempted from taxes and fees
provided that their value does not exceed 15% of the total value of the
fixed assets utilizing these spares.
Hotel and hospital projects are granted extra exemptions from

customs taxes and fees on their imports of furniture and supplies for
the purpose of renewal, once every seven years.
Any increase in the value of imported fixed assets is exempted from

customs taxes and fees if the increase results from a rise in prices,
freight charges or changes in exchange rates.
Taxes are defined in the Investment Law to be "taxes that are levied
by virtue of the laws in force on fixed assets except for municipality
fees," whereas fees are defined to include "import, customs and other
fees provided for in other legislation in force that are levied on
different fixed assets except for municipality fees."
For further Information on the subject, please contact Jordan

Investment Board at the following address:
Jordan Investment Board

P.O. Box 893
Amman 11821 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5655366 - 5608400/15
Fax: +962 6 5608416
E-mail: [email protected]
http://www.jordaninvestment.com
Investment Regulations
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General Registration Procedure
1. All enterprises, whatever their legal form, operating in Jordan

must register with the Controller of Companies at the Ministry of
Industry and Trade. Only joint ventures are excluded. Foreign
companies seeking to open a regional office or a branch in Jordan
must apply to the Controller of Companies for registration by
submitting all necessary documents in Arabic.
2. Companies operating in Jordan must register with the Chamber of

Commerce or the Chamber of Industry, as applicable.
3. All companies operating in Jordan should register with the Income

Tax Department.
4. Companies employing more than five people must register with

the Social Security Corporation.
5. All enterprises must obtain an annual license from the concerned

municipality.
6. Industrial projects can receive an industrial registration certificate

from the Ministry of Industry and Trade upon completing an
application with the Department of Industrial Development.
Registration Procedure for Non-Operating Foreign Companies
1. An application must be signed before the Controller of Companies

or anyone authorized by him in writing or before a Notary Public.
It should include the following information:
Name of the company.
Nationality of the company.
Objectives of the company in its home country.
Address of the company's head office.

Place, number and date of the company's registration at its
place of incorporation.
Name of the company's representative in Jordan.
The duration for which the company was incorporated,

whether fixed or not.
The capital of the company, names of the promoters or

partners, nationality of each, and their shares along with
information relating to its board of directors.
Objectives of the company in Jordan.
2. The following documents should be attached to the application of

registration:
A certificate of the registration or incorporation of the

company.
The company's Article of Memorandum of Association showing

its objectives, share capital and form.
The company's latest balance sheet or annual report certified

by a licensed auditor.
A power of attorney in favor of the company's representative

in Jordan.
Any recent brochures or literature setting forth the activities,

size and other particulars concerning the company.
3. All documents must be certified by the Jordanian Embassy and

the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of origin in addition
to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jordan. The documents must
also be translated into Arabic.
4. The translation must be certified by the Notary Public in Jordan.

Registration Procedure for Operating Foreign Companies
1. An application must be signed before the Controller of Companies

or anyone authorized by him in writing or before a Notary Public,
along with the following information:
The name, type, and share capital of the company.
The objectives of the company in Jordan.
Detailed information concerning the founders or partners of

the company and its board of directors and the number of
shares, if any, held by each of them.
2. The following documents must be attached to the application of

the registration:
The Articles of Memorandum of Association of the foreign

company.
Written official evidence of approval from the relevant

authorities for the conduct of activities in Jordan and the
investment of foreign capital therein, in accordance with the
legislation in force.
A list of the names of the members of the foreign company’s

board of directors, along with the nationality of each one, in
addition to the names of the persons authorized to sign on
behalf of the company.
A copy of the proxy according to which the foreign company

authorizes a person resident in Jordan to receive notification
on its behalf.
A balance sheet authenticated by a licensed auditor for the

last fiscal year of the company in its head quarters.
3. All documents must be certified by the Jordanian Embassy and

the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in the country of origin in addition
to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Jordan. The documents must
also be translated into Arabic.
4. The translation must be certified by a Notary Public in Jordan.
Registration Procedure for Public and Private Shareholding Companies
Private shareholding companies (PSC), public shareholding companies

(PLC) and holding companies (HC) are registered using the following
registration procedures:
1. An application for registration is submitted to the Controller of

Companies. This application should be signed in front of the
Controller or the person authorized by him in writing, a Notary
Public, or any licensed lawyer, and submitted together with:
Name, nationality, address of promoters and their respective

shares in the company.
The name, objectives, share capital, duration and head office

of the shareholding company.
Detailed provisions governing, inter-alia, the management of

the company, shareholders' meetings, the transfer of shares
and the dissolution and liquidation of the shareholding
company.
2. The Controller must issue a resolution approving the registration

of the PSC within 15 days of the submission of the application. In
case the Controller declines, the partners may object to the
Minister of Industry and Trade within 30 days, and if the Minister
refuses the objection, the partners may appeal to the High Court
of Justice. After the issuance of the approval, the Controller
undertakes the completion of the registration. Partners must
produce documents proving that no less than 50% of the
company's capital has already been paid and the remaining 50%
to be paid within the following two years.
3. The Minister, upon the recommendation of the Controller, issues a

resolution approving the registration of a PLC within 30 days. If
the Minister declines to register the company, then the promoters
have the right to appeal to the High Court of Justice.
Registration Procedure for General and Limited Partnerships
Limited and general partnerships are registered according to the

following procedures:
1. An application for registration must be submitted to the

Controller of Companies together with the original partnership
agreement signed by all partners, and with a memorandum
signed by each of them before the Controller or the person
authorized by him in writing, a Notary Public or any licensed
lawyer. The following information must be included:
Name, nationality, age and address of each of the partners.
The capital of the partnership and the share of each partner.
The name, trade name, objectives, duration and head office

of the partnership.
Name of the partner(s) authorized to manage and sign on

behalf of the partnership.
2. The Controller has to approve the registration of the partnership

within 15 days from the date the application is submitted. If
registration is rejected by the Controller, the partners may
submit an objection to the Minister within 30 days. If the
Minister declines the objection, then the partners become
entitled to appeal to the High Court of Justice.
For further information, please contact the Jordan Investment Board

at the following address:
Jordan Investment Board

P.O. Box 893
Amman 11821 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5655366 - 5608400/15
Fax: +962 6 5608416
http://www.jordaninvestment.com
Logistics
Air Transport
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Queen Alia and Aqaba Airports provide excellent facilities for cargo
traffic and air shipping activities. The following is the
Import/Transit/Export Regulations in Queen Alia Airport.
1. Airprot Information
1.1. Customs Airports

Amman - Amm
1.2. Airport Facilities
1.2.1. Loading / Unloading Equipment
Forklift, Conveyor and Main-deck loader
1.2.2. Storage
At airport.
Time limit 6 months; thereafter goods will be auctioned.
Cold Storage: Available up to +5°C
Deep freeze storage: Available up to -20°C
Safe for valuables: Available
Room for radio-active material: Not available, to be cleared upon
arrival.
Animal storage: Not available, to be cleared upon arrival.
Storage for human remains: Not available, to be cleared upon arrival.
1.2.3. Clearance
At the airport by the consignee or his broker.
1.2.4. Customs hours
Saturday through Thursday 08.00-15.30 hrs. Clearance outside

Customs hours not possible, except for AOG, AVI, PER, HUM, RRY and
SOS shipments.
1.2.5. Delivery
Possible at airport only
1.2.6. (Re)-Forwarding
Possible after customs authorization.
2. Import
2.1. General
2.1.4. Language on documents
Arabic and or/ English
2.1.5. Other requirements
Importation of commercial consignments should be effected by

registered Jordanian firms only.
2.2. Documentary Requirements
2.2.1. Commercial consignments
4 commercial invoices, legalized by Consulate or visaed by

Chamber of Commerce (except when CIF value is less than JOD
50.000), containing: the signed declaration: "we certify this
invoice to be true and correct and in accordance with our books
also that the goods are of …origin".
Certificate of Origin legalized by Consulate or visaed by Chamber

of Commerce.
Note: commercial invoice and certificate of origin may be one

document.
Import Licence, issued by Jordan Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Note: The import licence is granted on the base of value exclusive
insurance premium and charges for unloading.
Exceptions:
The following articles need no import Licence:
Commercial consignments, gifts or samples (unfit for sale) valued

JOD 50.000 or less, not consisting of articles prohibited or
restricted for import.
Newspapers, periodicals, books or other printed matters

(advertising material).
2.2.2. Sample consignments
Samples are subject to duty, except those with no commercial value.
2.2.3. Gift consignments
No commercial invoices are required.
2.2.4. Unaccompanied baggage
Declaration of contents.
2.3. Restrictions
2.3.2. Live animals
Health Certificate
Examination in Amman on arrival and quarantine (period varies)

case of any symptoms of disease
Special arrangement to be done prior to forwarding live stock.

2.3.3. Plants and plant material
Health Certificate
Inspection on arrival by official of Ministry of Agriculture
The height of plants may not exceed 30 cm
Cut flowers are not permitted
2.3.4. Arms, ammunition and explosives
Permit from Jordanian Ministry of Interior (Police)
2.3.5. Narcotics and drugs
Permit from Ministry of Health.
2.3.6. Human remains
Passport of the deceased

Death Certificate
If cremated: additional Cermation Certificate
All documents to be legalized by Ministry of Health and, if
available, by Consulate at Origin.
Prior permission from Jordanian Ministry of Interior for non
Jordanian nationals.
2.3.7. Pharmaceutical and chemical products
2.3.8. Medicines and vaccines
2.3.9. Others
Motorcycles are restricted to Government firms only.

2.4. Prohibitions
Automobile chassis are not permitted

Nuclear waste is not permitted.
3. Transhipment/Transit
3.1. General
English
3.3. Restrictions
3.3.2. Live animals
Advance arrangements with Royal Jordanian.
3.3.3. Plants and plant material
3.3.6 Human remains
3.3.10. Meat and meat products

3.3.13. Precious metals and stones
3.3.14. Radio-active materials
3.3.15. Others
Dangerous goods: Advance arrangements with Royal Jordanian.
4. EXPORT
4.1. General
English and/ or Arabic.
4.2. Documentary Requirements
Certificate of Origin
Export permit from Ministry of Industry and Trade
Permit from Central Bank of Jordan for consignments which value
exceeds JOD 300.000.
4.3. Restrictions
4.3.2. Live animals
Permit from Ministry of Agriculture
Permit from Jordanian Ministry of Interior (Police)

4.3.6. Human remains
Passport of the deceased
Death Certificate
If cremated: additional Cremation Certificate
All documents to be legalized by Ministry of Health and, if available,

by Consulate at Origin.
Prior permission from Jordanian Ministry of Interior for non

Jordanian nationals.
4.3.13. Precious metals and stones
Permit from Central Bank of Jordan
4.3.15. Others
Currency and Banknotes: Permit from Central Bank of Jordan

Freight Forwarding Companies
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Amin Kawar & Sons Co. W.L.L.

P. O. Box 222
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5603703
Fax: +962 6 5672170
http://www.kawar.com.jo
Maltrans Shipping Agencies Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 921805
Amman 11192 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5665737
Fax: +962 6 5665721
http://www.maltrans.com
Petra Navigation & International Trading Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 8362
Amman 11121 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5607021
Fax: +962 6 5601362
http://www.petranav.com.jo
International Containers Services Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 9708
Amman 11121 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5681237
Fax: +962 6 5606536
http://www.cma-cgm.com
Trans East Shipping & Forwarding Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 926101
Amman 11110 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5524562
Fax: +962 6 5534852
http://www.tecojo.com
Philadelphia Corp. For Shipping Agencies
P. O. Box 184003
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5681209
Fax: +962 6 5603472
Aqaba Shipping Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 940174
Amman 11194 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5679892
Fax: +962 6 5679891
Al-Kamal Shipping Est.

P. O. Box 263
Amman 11810 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5534191
Fax: +962 6 5524190
Aqaba Gulf Shipping Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 20211
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5526925
Fax: +962 6 5520552
Matalka & Mousa, Goods Clearing & Shipping Co.

P. O. Box 925944
Amman 11110 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4649053
Fax: +962 6 4633052
Near East Maritime Agencies Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 19245
Amman 11196 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5687191
Fax: +962 6 5687193
International Shipping & Transport Co.

P. O. Box 182469
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5682797
Fax: +962 6 5698810
Transocean Shipping & Forwarding Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 240724
Amman 11124 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5699140
Fax: +962 6 5699139
Alsalam Shipping & Forwarding Co. Ltd.

P. O. Box 1445
Amman 11953 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5620719
Fax: +962 6 5698602
Road Transport
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jordan enjoys excellent road connections with Syria, Iraq and Saudi
Arabia, Palestinian Authority and Israel. There is sustained truck and
tourism traffic across the northern and eastern borders of the
Kingdom. Jordan has built a new customs control center at the border
with Syria which was opened in 1998. About ten hectares of land in
the area of the Jordanian-Syrian border have been designated for
private commercial activities.
Ministry of Transport
P. O. Box 35214
Tel: + 962 6 5518111
Fax: +962 6 5527233
http://www.nic.gov.jo/trans
Sea Transport
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Aqaba is the only port of Jordan that handles all the sea shipments
either exported from Jordan or Imported to Jordan. The main Port has
12 berths, the Container Port has nine (including passenger berths)
and the Industrial Port has four.
Restrictions
The berthing of tankers and vessels carrying dangerous goods is

prohibited during darkness (normally 18:00 to 06:00).
Customs and Quarantine
The Port of Aqaba's customs, quarantine and agriculture offices are

located in the Main Port. Goods are inspected based on various
documents including bills of lading, invoices, certificates of origin,
delivery orders from agents, permission to import and agreement of
approval.
Customs fines/dues are imposed under customs law for shortlanded

goods, if the shortlanded quantity is not traced within six months. The
Customs Department submits demads to agents for the payment of
customs fines/dues. This must be paid within two weeks.
Vessels must supply the following information to the Port authority

within a reasonable time prior to expected time of arrival:
Name of vessel.
IMO number.
Nationality.
Agent’s name.
Overall length.
Draft forward, Draft aft. & Maximum draft.
Gross and net tonnage’s; arrival Displacement.
Type of cargo destined for Aqaba.
Any special characteristics of the vessel.
Any special characteristics of the vessel cargo or over-dimension
loads of flat/open containers.
Vessel Entry
All vessels calling Aqaba Port are subject to inspection according to

international conventions & regulations in conformity with Med. MOU
on PSC (Mediterranean Memorandum of Understanding on Port State
Control).
Dcouments to be checked by PSC:
the log book (retained by the port authorities during the vessel’s
stay).
the tonnage certificate .
the ship’s registry certificate .
All ships certificates on board.
Cargo Documentation
The following documentation is required:
Two freighted manifests stating all details;
Ten copies of the UN freighted manifest stating all details except

freight;
Two sets of non-negotiable bills of lading;
Nine copies of a separate manifest for Free Zone cargoes, which

must be included in the general cargo manifest;
Twelve copies of a separate manifest for cargo in transit for each

destination;
Two lists of reefer containers giving full details of cargo carried;
Two copies of the heavy lifts list.

Two lists of dangerous and hazardous cargo lists showing IMO
class and UN number to be sent at least 48 hours prior to the
vessel’s arrival.
At least three copies of the master stowage plan and hatch lists to
be sent at least 48 hours prior to the vessel’s arrival. This helps
the Ports Corporation to plan.
The manifests must be stamped and signed by the agent at the

port of loading. Documents must go to the agent’s head office.
Manifests must show the weight, dimensions and other

measurements of the cargo. Weight must be shown in kilograms.
Manifests must be received in Aqaba at least 48 hours before the

arrival of the vessel, or the ship’s master must deliver a set to the
agent.
Free Pratique
The following documents are required in accordance with related

international conventions:
From the ships:

four copies of the crew list;
four copies of the passenger list;
one copy of the stores list;
one copy of the crew declaration list;
one copy of the vaccination list.
From the agent
two copies of the maritime declaration form;

one copy of the customs declaration form;
two copies of the vessel’s specification form.
One copy of the Pilotage form.
Service Charges
According to the PC services charge regulations including: anchorage,

Pilotage and towage; port entrance; wharfage/mooring; stevedoring;
lighterage, porterage, quay and storage.
Special charges may be made for the use of certain handling
equipment, for specialized operations or services and for repairs.
Special discounts or incentives are available for certain types of traffic
or cargo, for example reefer cargo, fruit and vegetable, and container
traffic, transit or transshipment.
For further information, please contact the Ports Corporation at the

following address:
Ports Corporation
P. O. Box 115
Aqaba 77110 Jordan
Tel: +962 3 2014031
Fax: +962 3 2016204
http://www.nis.gov.jo/portscorp/main.html
Warehousing Facilities
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Warehousing facilities are available at the Aqaba Special Economic

Zone, Zarqa Free Zone, Karak Free Zone and Sahab Free Zone.
For further information, please contact the Aqaba Special Economic

Zone Authority and The Free Zones Corporation at the following
addresses:
Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority

P.O. Box 2565,
Aqaba 77110 Jordan
Tel: +962 3 203 5757/8
Fax: +962 3 203 0912
http://www.Aqabazone.com
The Free Zones Corporation

P.O. Box 20036
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 5 3826429
Fax: +962 5 3826430
[email protected]
http://www.free-zones.gov.jo
Market Access
Advertising and Trade Promotion
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
There are 6 official newspapers in Jordan, 2 of which are in English

language.
Jordanian newspapers:
Al-Rai (Arabic Daily)

P.O. Box 6710, Amman, Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5600800
Fax: +962 6 5661242
http://www.alrai.com
Ad-Dustour (Arabic Daily)

P. O. Box 591
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5664153
Fax: +962 6 5667170
http://www.addustour.com
Al-Aswaq (Arabic Business Daily)

P. O. Box 11117
Amman 11123 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5157690
Fax: +962 6 5154390
Al-Arab Al-Yawm
P. O. Box 962198
Amman 11196 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5621114
Fax: +962 6 5622177
http://www.alarab-alyawm.com.jo
Jordan Times (English - Daily)

Queen Rania Al Abdullah Street,
P.O. Box 6710, Amman, Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5600800
Fax: +962 6 5696183
http://www.jordantimes.com
The Star (English - weekly)

P. O. Box 591
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5664153
Fax: +962 6 5667170
Tariffs & Non-Tariff Barriers
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Tariff System
Jordan uses the Harmonized Commodity Description and Coding

System of tariff classification. Most imports are subject to tariffs and
import taxes, although industrial raw materials, as well as capital
equipment imported by licensed industrial projects are exempt. Import
tariffs range between 0 percent and 30 percent on most commodities.
Ad valorem duties: Ad valorem duties are assessed on the basis of the

C.I.F. value, i.e. the cost of the goods in the country of origin on the
day of clearance plus insurance and freight costs.
Customs valuation: customs department of Jordan applies GATT

valuation code system, which is based on the transaction value, and it
is compatible with the international norms and standards (WTO).
The customs law stipulates that the value of the goods, if stated in
foreign currency, should be converted to Dinars at the rate set by the
Central Bank on the date of customs declaration. In the absence of the
required documentation, customs officers may determine the value of
imported goods, as stated in the GATT valuation methods.
General sales tax: generally, goods are subject to13 percent sales tax
(there are some materials exempted from GST).
Advance rulings: customs department provides advance rulings on
customs classification of goods.
Non-Tariff Controls
The Ministry of Industry and Trade applies automated and non-

automated import export licenses that are compatible with WTO
requirements.
For further information, please contact the Customs Department at the

following address:
P.O. Box 90
Amman - Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4623186 / 88
Fax: +962 6 4647791
http://www.customs.gov.jo
Distribution Channels
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Use of Agents/Distributors - Finding a Partner
According to the Commercial Agents and Middlemen Law No. 28 of

2001 foreign firms interested in exporting to Jordan are required to
appoint locally registered Jordanian agents or distributors.
For the full text of the above law, please contact the Ministry of
Industry and Trade at the following address:
Ministry of Industry and Trade

P.O.Box: 2019
Amman 11181 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5607191
Fax: +962 6 5684692
http://www.mit.gov.jo
Direct Marketing
Direct marketing of foreign products and services is usually handled by

agents/distributors. Firms may also use tele-marketing media or the
Internet, to launch direct marketing programs in Jordan.
Selling Factors/Techniques
Thousands of local wholesalers, semi-wholesalers and retailers operate

in a competitive Jordanian market. Pricing, financing arrangements
and credit terms are essential criteria to the Jordanian importer in
making a buying decision. Freight charges and delivery terms are also
strong determinants. Training of sales people and engineering support
are becoming important factors.
Product Pricing
Local importers base their product pricing on the export price, freight
costs, applicable import tariffs and taxes, the sales tax and profit
margin. The government of Jordan is gradually lifting price controls on
non-strategic food items. A new antitrust legislation, protecting
consumers, should pass soon. The legislation will safeguard against
price fixing, collusion, product hoarding, and dumping of foreign goods
and services. Due to unclear policies on customs valuation, exporters
and suppliers should coordinate the pricing of their goods and services
with local representatives before assigning a final price to a product.
Selling to the Government
The General Supplies Department is the Government's central

procurement agency. Direct offers for local bids are not permitted (i.e.
a local agent/distributor or representative must be appointed to act on
the potential supplier's behalf). Direct bids for tenders financed by
international donors or the World Bank are permitted as stated in
tender documents.
Exchange Rates
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Foreign Exchange Regulations issued in accordance with The Foreign

Exchange Control Law No. 95 Of 1966 Central Bank of Jordan state
that:
Inflow and outflow of local and foreign banknotes, coins, other means
of payment and gold are permitted without any restrictions.
Licensed banks may purchase or sell any amounts of foreign

currencies from or to their customers against the Jordan dinar on a
forward deal basis.
Withdrawals and transfers from resident or non-resident accounts in

foreign currencies are permitted without any restrictions.
For full text of the above regulation, please click here.
For up-to-date Exchange rates list, please click here.

Trade Fairs & Exhibition's Organizers
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Golden Jordanian Group

P.O. Box 20643
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5523126
Fax: +962 6 5523127
Contact Person: Mr. Moawya Al-Naji
Universal Exhibition Corporation

P.O. Box 42524
Amman - Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5537183
Fax: +962 6 5537183
Contact Person: Mr. Monther Tamimi
Al-Bassam Mall
P.O. Box 822, Jubaiha
Amman - Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5691969
Fax: +962 6 5155055
Contact Person: Mr. Bassam Dhab'aan
Al-Qdah Trading Co.

P.O. Box 340777
Amman 11134 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4649666
Fax: +962 6 4649666
Contact Person: Mr. Salman Al-Qudah
Amman International Motor Show

P.O. Box 925911
Amman 11190 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5714211
Fax: +962 6 5715311
Contact Person: Mr. Qassem Ayyad
Intelligentsia
P.O. Box 830760
Amman 11183 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5815641
Fax: +962 6 5815643
Contact Person: Mr. Jamal Al-Naji
Jordanian International Market

P.O. Box 410585
Amman 11141 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5656461
Fax: +962 6 5656461
Contact Person: Mr. Zakaria Kayyali
Middle East Exhibitions Co.

Amman - Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5657303
Fax: +962 6 5657303
Contact Person: Mr. Odai Azizi
The Vocational Center for Fairs and Commercial Services

P.O. Box 8398
Amman 11121 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4612906
Fax: +962 6 4625793
Contact Person: Mr. Motaz Al-Sayyed
Philadelphia Graphics
P.O. Box 710767
Amman 11171 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5692088
Fax: +962 6 5692088
Contact Person: Mr. Masoud Dawoodi
Protection of Property Rights
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Protection of IPRs is efficiently enforced in Jordan since a long time.

Jordanian IPRs laws are in compliance with international standards,
that enabled Jordan to accede to WTO, FTA, as well as, for the
purposes of signing the Berne Convention for the protection of Literacy
and Artistic rights at 1999, the TRIPs agreement 1994, and he Paris
Convention for the protection industrial property. Moreover, a clear
example on such enforcement could be sighted in the recent cases
that have been filed in local courts, the fact that contributed to
removing Jordan from watch list.
JORDAN is a member of the Berne Convention since 1999.
Jordanian copyright law according to art 45 does not require

registration or any formalities in order to grant protection. Yet, Patents
and trademarks laws require registration to grant protection.
It should be noted that if any work has not been recorded at the
National Library, a fine shall be imposed, but this penalty shall not
affect the protection of this work under copyright law.
The trademark law prevents the registration of any trademark that is

similar or identical to already registered one. Moreover, the right
holder has the right to oppose the registration application of this
similar or identical trademark before the ministry registrar, and if he
refuses this opposition, the holder can challenge his rule before the
higher court of justice.
Furthermore, the right holder of any trademark has the right to

prevent others from using and exploiting his registered trademark
without his permission, and if infringement occurs, he has the right to
sue them.
The right's holder of patent has the right to prevent others from using
or exploiting his patent without his permission.
Under Jordanian Patent Law, both the process and the product itself
are protected according to article (2) which identify the patent as an
innovative idea in a field whether its related to product or to the
process, and also according to article 21 that emphasized on this
concept.
Mail Shipments
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Mail & Courier Services
International mailing services comprising of surface and air postal

services and telegram facilities are available through most of the
Kingdom’s post offices. International express delivery services such as
DHL, Aramex, Eastern and Federal Express have also established
representative offices in Amman and other key cities.
Prohibitions on items sent via international mail
Specific prohibitions include drugs of all kinds, such as hashish, opium,

etc., explosive or inflammable materials presenting a danger to staff,
objects of an immoral nature in general, animals and other living
creatures, apart from harmless bess and silkworms, coin, gold,
platinum, silver and precious stones, arms, munitions and hunting
rifles, except with a permit issued by the security authorities.
Lottery publications and tickets, curative oils and medicines, Hashish

and derivatives thereof for industrial use are admitted on the condition
of the addressees' compliance with import restrictions or conditions
(permits, quotas, etc.). Conditions or quotas applicable.
Dimensions
Size limits for items other than postcards and aerogrammes are as
follows:
Maxima: length, width and depth combined: 900mm, but the greatest
dimension may not exceed 600mm, with a tolerance of 2mm;
in roll form: length plus twice the diameter: 1040mm, but the greatest
dimension may not exceed 900mm, with a tolerance of 2mm.
Minima: to have a surface measuring not less than 90 x 140mm, with

a tolerance of 2mm;
in roll form: length plus twice the diameter: 170mm, but the greatest
dimension may not be less than 100mm.
For further information, please contact the Ministry of Post and
Communications at the following address:
Ministry of Post and Communications

P.O. Box 9903
Amman 11191 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5851622
Fax: +962 6 5851305
http://www.mopc.gov.jo
Packing, Marking & Lebaling
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Local businessmen may only import products which comply with

labeling and marking requirements issued by the Standards and
Measures Department and responsible Government ministries.
Different requirements govern the import of foodstuffs, medicines,
chemicals and other consumer products. Jordanian importers are
responsible for informing exporters of any applicable labeling and
marking requirements.
Marking
All markings on boxes or crates should be indelible ink, or paint ,

directly on the container and not on removable tags or labels.
According to sound shipping practice, packages should bear the
consignee’s mark, including port mark, and should be numbered
unless the shipment is such that the contents can be readily identified
without numbers.
Country of origin marks are required as well as the consignee’s name

and address, quality and variety of the goods, and the weight and
number of the packages.
Labeling
Imports of canned and preserved foodstuffs are subject are to a

regulations requiring the date of manufacture and expiration to be
embossed or printed on each can or label. Imports not so labeled may
be refused entry. Pharmaceuticals should have the contents plainly
printed on the label.
Edible eggs and eggs for hatching must be stamped with the name of
the producing country.
In addition, standards and regulations are in effect for a number of

other products. Shippers should contact the appropriate Jordanian
government ministry or their importers to determine whether their
products must meet such standards.
Tobacco products must be labeled with a health warning .

The manufacturer, agent, importer, dealer, or seller of electrical
equipment of a rated power exceeding 25 watts is required to affix a
sticker to equipment in an accessible, noticeable place stating in Arabic
or English the following .: Consumption per hour .... k Wh .: Letters
should be at least size 13 in black lettering with orange background .
Pesticides must be labeled in Arabic with the following information: the

name of the producer or source of the pesticides, the commercial
name, chemical composition, and percentage of active ingredients, the
registration number at the Jordan Ministry of Agriculture; the net
quantity in the container, production and expiration dates, uses of the
pesticide, special marks approved by the Agricultural Pesticides
Committee, the result of mixing one pesticide with another ;and
identification of the local importer.
Labeling/Marking Requirements
Local businessmen may only import products which comply with

labeling and marking requirements issued by the Standards and
Measures Department and responsible Government ministries.
Different requirements govern the import of foodstuffs, medicines,
chemicals and other consumer products. Jordanian importers are
responsible for informing exporters of any applicable labeling and
marking requirements.
Temporary Entry
Jordan's temporary entry procedures cover :
manufacturing and exports
reimbursement of customs duties and taxes on foreign materials used

as input in locally-made commodities, and
the temporary entry of containers and packing materials.
Businessmen who are interested in utilizing Jordanian temporary entry

exemptions must submit a written request to the Department of
Customs along with all necessary documentation. The right of
temporary entry is extended for a one-year, renewable period for all
raw materials and industrial inputs used in manufacturing, including
those exempted from customs duties. These instructions also grant or
allow the right of temporary entry for semi-manufactured products or
materials for the purpose of manufacturing and export. In addition to
the right of export, the Customs Department allows the permit holder
to sell the excess raw materials in the local market.
The instructions on the reimbursement of customs duties and taxes for

manufacturing and export purposes permit factory owners to submit a
written application to the Department of Customs to utilize the system
of refund offered by the Government on imported primary, secondary
or complimentary raw materials for manufacturing and export
purposes. These instructions also give the permit holder the right to
import on a temporary basis all types of raw materials and industrial
input within three years from the date of customs duties payments on
these imports. The reimbursement of customs duties and other taxes
includes all types of customs duties, taxes, and fees as well as the
sales tax.
As for the temporary entry of containers for storage and filling

purposes, the new instructions permit the entry of all types of
containers used in storing and holding locally made products provided
that a bank guarantee equal to the value of all customs duties, fees
and taxes is submitted to the Customs Department. The permit covers
the right of temporary entry for six months, renewable by decision of
the Director of temporary entry at the Customs Department.
A written request must be submitted to the Customs Department for
the temporary entry of raw materials and intermediate goods
necessary to manufacture products destined for either the local market
or for export.
Local factories registered with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and
the Amman Chamber of Industry may apply for temporary entry
approval.
The period of temporary entry is granted for one year, renewable for
another year pending approval and evaluation by customs.
The manufacturer must submit a bank guarantee equal to the value of

all tariffs, duties and fees on the materials cleared for entry.
Shipping Restrictions
Insurance for commodities imported into Jordan is covered locally.
Royal Jordanian Airlines (RJ) services should be used for goods

shipped by air from countries where the airline operates.
Ships more than 15 years old are not permitted to dock at Aqaba.
Exempted are ships transporting grain, fodder, or phosphates and
ships belonging to maritime companies having Aqaba as a regular port
of call.
Quality & Technical Standards
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jordan Institution for Standards and Metrology (JISM) is responsible

for the development of Jordanian Standards in the fields of foodstuffs,
chemicals, construction materials, electrical and electronic equipment
and appliances, textiles and paper, environment and safety,
mechanical and manufacturing engineering, information technology,
testing and metrology.
JISM is also responsible for Legal Metrology in Jordan in order to

control measuring instruments used by and for the public, such as
taximeters, fuel flowmeters, gas cylinders, weights, balances,
weighbridges, clinical thermometers and blood pressure measuring
instruments.
JISM grants the Jordanian Quality Mark for national products. The
system incorporates type tests of samples taken from the market and
the factory premises followed by the evaluation of the quality system
according to the requirements of ISO 9000 standards.
For further information, please contact the Jordan Institution for

Standards and Metrology at the following address:
Jordan Institution for Standards and Metrology

P.O. Box 941287
Amman 11194 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5680139
Fax: +962 6 5695721 / 5680316
http://www.jism.gov.jo
Restricted Products
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
The Government bans the importation of plastic waste, passenger cars

that use fuel other than gasoline, motor vehicles used for trasport of
goods that are more than ten years old and qat.
Imports of raw natural leather are restricted to the Jordan Tanning

Company; crude oil and its derivatives, except metallic oils, and
household gas cylinders are restricted to the Jordan Petroleum
Refinery Company; black Portland cement is restricted to the Jordan
Cement Factories Company, raw rock phosphate, gun powder and
explosives, are restricted to the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company;
used tires are restricted to the tire retreading factories.
According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade's Import Instruction

No. (1) for 1999 Some products require prior permission from the
related Ministry / Government Body. An up-to-date list can be
obtained from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
For further information, please contact the Ministry of Industry and

Trade at the following address:
Ministry of Industry and Trade

P.O.Box 2019
Amman 11181 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5607191
Fax: +962 6 5684692
http://www.mit.gov.jo
Membership in Free Trade Arrangements
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arab Free Trade Agreement (AFTA)
Jordan, along with ten other Arab countries, signed the Arab Free
Trade Agreement and its implementation commenced on March 9,
1998. According to the agreement, all Arab products moving among
Arab member states will be afforded the status of national goods in
accordance with the principle of gradual liberalization, which took
effect January 1, 1998. By way of annual reductions of 10% of
customs duties, fees and taxes, goods are scheduled to be moving
duty-free among the States through the establishment of the Arab
Free Trade Zone by 2008.
Jordan has signed agreements guaranteeing 100% free trade with

Bahrain, Egypt, Kuwait, Syria, Morocco and Tunisia.
Jordan has also signed bilateral Trade Cooperation Agreements with

Saudi Arabia, Lebanon, Palestine and Algeria.
Euro-Jordanian Cooperattion Agreement
In November 1997 the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the

European Union Signed the EU-Jordan Association Agreement, which is
due to enter into force on May 1, 2002. This agreement will facilitate
trade between Jordan and the European Union under the umbrella of
global free trade and within WTO regulations. The Association
Agreement will create an environment in which European companies
(from EU member states) and Jordanian companies can both benefit
from the advantages of tariff-free trade and clear, unified regulations.
Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZ)
Further enhancing Jordan’s leverage over other neighboring countries

in the MENA Region, Jordan was granted the unprecedented
opportunity to establish Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZs), zones
which provide duty and quota free access to the U.S. market for
products manufactured in Jordan.
World Trade Organization
Jordan's membership of the World Trade Organization (WTO) became

effective on April 11, 2000. WTO membership assures access to the
entire world market for Jordanian manufactured products, but will also
expose Jordanian companies to direct competition with international
firms. The government has revised its laws, particularly those
governing Intellectual Property Rights and Trade Secrets, in order to
come into regulatory compliance with WTO standards.
United States–Jordan Free Trade Agreement
Jordan and the USA signed an agreement to establish a free trade area
(FTA) between the two countries on October 24, 2000. This Agreement
has become effective on 1/1/2001. The FTA will eliminate tariffs on
nearly all trade between the US and Jordan within a 10 year period.
EFTA States-Jordan
On June 21, 2001, Jordan and the EFTA states (Iceland, Liechtenstein,
Norway and Switzerland) signed a free trade agreement which aims to
create favorable conditions for the development and diversification of
trade and to promote commercial and economic cooperation in areas
of common interest on basis of equality, mutual benefit, non-
discrimination and international law.
The free trade area between Jordan and the EFTA states will be fully
operational through progressive liberalization extending over a period
of 12 years. The agreement covers trade in industrial, agricultural and
fish and marine products. As of the date of entry into force of the
agreement, the EFTA states will abolish all customs duties and other
charges on imports of industrial products originating in Jordan. Jordan
will progressively abolish customs duties on the same products
originating in the EFTA states according to 2 schemes extending over 4
to 12 years, while leaving tariffs on a limited number of categories of
products to be negotiated after four years of entry into force of the
agreement.
For further information please contact the Trade Protocols Division at

JEDCO at the following address:
P. O. Box 7704
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5603507
Fax: +962 6 5684568
http://www.agreements.jedco.gov.jo
Required Trade Documents
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Import/Export Documentation:
According to article 31/c, d and 61 below of Customs Law No. (20) of

the year 1998, the following shall be followed:
Article 31
C- Every declaration should be accompanied by an original list

(invoice) attested by the chamber of commerce of the city where
commodity has originated or by any agency acceptable for the
Department confirming the authenticity of prices and origin. These
documents shall also be attested by the Jordanian Consulate
Missions and in case these Missions do not exist it would be
sufficient to attest them by chambers of commerce or official
bodies.
D- The Director may allow the completion of formalities of clearing

the commodity without the presentation of the attested lists and
the required documents in return for cash guarantee not
exceeding 2% or a bank security not exceeding 4% of commodity
value for each document, provided that this deposit shall be
refunded to payer as soon as he presents the attested lists and
the required documents within (60) days of date of payment.
Article 61
1- Upon clearing any commodity, even when exempted from duties

and taxes, a customs declaration shall be presented to the
customs house, such declaration shall be organized:
a. In writing.
b. By using information or data processing method whenever

such method is required and in accordance with directives
issued by the Director. The provisions applied to the
written declaration shall apply to this kind of declaration as
well.
2. The Director shall specify the forms of declarations and the
media for their submission, in addition to the number and
princes of copies, the information they must contain, the
documents, which shall be attached to the declarations as well
as the information contained in such documents.
Of customs law no.20 for the year 1998, the below shall be followed:
Article (1):
A customs declaration shall be submitted at the customs house upon

clearance of any goods, including goods exempt from customs duties
and other fees and taxes. The declaration shall be:
(a) Handwritten: All the documents required by the customs houses

that do not apply the computerized system (JARASH) shall be
enclosed therein.
(b) Computerized customs declarations (SAD): These shall be

submitted at the customs houses that apply the computerized
customs system (JARASH).
Such declarations shall be submitted by electronic means as follows:
1. By direct entry from the computers of the declarants who are

authorized to use the direct clearance system from their offices.
2. By entry offices available at the customs houses.
3. By floppy discs.
Article (2):
The declarations registered by the computerized system shall be

submitted to Customs within (24) hours as of registration thereof. The
Department may not allow the declarants who do not abide by the
above-stated period to benefit from the direct entry method.
Article (3):
In addition to the delivery order mentioned in Article (165) of the

Customs Law, the following documents shall be enclosed with the
customs declarations upon clearance of any goods:
1. The customs declaration of neighboring countries (Lebanon, Syria,

Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Palestinian National Authority, Israel) for the
goods of origin of those countries, or the goods imported through
the ports thereof, or for the goods in transit therein by land to the
Kingdom.
2. Maritime bill of lading or a copy thereof authenticated from the

ship agent for the goods imported by Aqaba port.
3. Air bill of lading for the goods imported to the Kingdom by air or
the cargo declaration for the goods imported by land.
4. Arab transit declaration for the goods imported from non-

neighboring Arab countries.
5. The vehicle license for used cars that are registered and licensed
in the country of export.
6. An invoice indicating the number of packages, their kind, marks,

Nos. as well as class of goods, gross and net weight thereof,
value, name of consignor and consignee.
7. A certificate of origin to be organized in accordance with the

provisions of the Law and the directives issued there under.
8. The value declaration form for the goods the declared value of
which exceeds (2000) JDs.
9. A release application for the goods stored at free zones.

Article (4):
Without prejudice to the instructions regarding waiving the submission

of invoices or the certified invoices as well as the instructions
concerning proving the origin and the cases exempted thereof, the
following procedures shall be followed in case of not submitting the
certified invoice or the certified certificate of origin or any of the
documents specified in Article (1) above:
1. A cash deposit of 15% of the value shall be levied in lieu of the

declarations of gold bars in case of not submitting the certified
invoice and the same percent when not submitting a certificate
of origin, provided that the deposit amount shall not exceed
(250) JDs in lieu of each document.
2. The following sums shall be levied on the customs declarations

regarding imported sheep and goats in case of not submitting
the required documents:
(6) JDs in lieu of all the documents if the number of the

sheep and goats does not exceed (100),
(12) JDs in lieu of all the documents if the number is (101)

and does not exceed (500),
(24) JDs on all the documents if the number is (501) and

does not exceed (1000),
(40) JDs on all the documents if the number exceeds

(1000).
3. With the exception of the cases mentioned in paragraphs (1,2)

of this Article, clearance shall be carried out on other kinds of
goods against a cash deposit of 0.5% or a bank guarantee of 1%
of the value of the goods in lieu of the invoice and the same
percent in lieu of the certificate of origin. The payer shall be
refunded if the certified invoices and certificates of origin are
submitted within (60) days of payment.
Article (5):
1. A separate certificate of origin shall not be required in case of

submitting a certified invoice indicating the origin of the goods.
2. In case of not certifying the invoice which indicates the origin

and for the purpose of collecting the deposit on the required
documents, the invoice and the certificate of origin shall be
considered two separate documents and therefore the cash
deposit shall be levied in lieu of each of them until submitting
them certified.
Article (6):
The agreement which is signed between the importers of movies and

the exporters thereof shall replace the certified invoice.
Article (7):
The certified invoices issued from the cities where there are export
offices shall be accepted. Those invoices shall be related to the
following goods: (sugar, rice, coffee, maize, cereals, sesame,
cardamom, lentil, tea, iron).
Article (8):
1. The certified invoices regarding foreign goods that leave the free
zone for local consumption shall be accepted, provided that
those goods shall leave in the name of the person for whom they
were originally entered into the free zone.
2. If the goods leave in the name of another entity, a locally issued

invoice by the original owner of the goods to the buyer shall be
submitted. The free zone management shall certify this invoice.
Article (9):
Copies of the invoices that are not directly signed by the exporter shall
be accepted, provided that they are duly certified by the approved
chambers of commerce and the Jordanian Embassies or Consulates if
available in the cities of those chambers of commerce.
Article (10):
The invoices issued from the main centers of factories or the offices
thereof that have branches in other countries shall be accepted even
though the goods were not imported from the main center, provided
that the following conditions shall be observed:
Those invoices shall be certified by the chambers of commerce of the
cities where the main centers of those factories and the offices or
branches thereof are available, as well as by the Jordanian Consulate
Missions if available in those cities.
A duly certified certificate shall be submitted proving that there are

other branches of those factories and specifying the locations thereof.
Article (11):
The certification of the Arab chambers of commerce that are connected

with the chambers of commerce in the exporting countries shall be
accepted and approved as if it were issued by the chambers of
commerce of the exporting cities in those countries.
Article (12):
All invoices shall have inscribed thereupon the class of goods in Arabic
and in customs terminology. The owner of the goods or his
representative shall have to sign thereon.
Article (13):
Without prejudice to the instructions regarding waiving the submission

of certified invoices, these directives shall apply to the goods imported
for local consumption or the goods imported under any of suspended
duties statuses.
Foodstuffs
All canned and preserved foodstuffs are subject to inspection and

testing by the Jordanian Ministry of Health to determine fitness for
human consumption and by the Jordan Institution for Standards and
Metrology to verify their compliance with Jordanian technical
regulations (mandatory standards). If importers do not meet these
requirements, the products will be rejected and consignments will be
reexported.
Trade Policy
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jordan’s foreign trade policy is based on the norms of economic

openness and integration into the rapidly globalizing world economy. It
incorporates the country’s vision and positiveness in viewing economic
partnerships as necessarily achieving both mutual interests and fair
dividends. Jordan has made giant strides on the path of economic and
trade liberalization in addition to reinforcing mechanisms and
functioning of a market-oriented economy that is built on individual
initiatives and an active role of the private sector in managing
economic activities. This was made possible through an intensive
reform process bringing about a modern and conducive regulatory
environment for business and investment. Today, Jordan is at the
forefront of the Middle Eastern liberal economies that gained wide
respect and recognition for their reforms and economic endeavors. In
fact, Jordan is cited as an example in economic policy for emerging
nations that could creatively overcome the dilemmas of the scarcity of
material and natural resources. In such a short time, Jordan managed
to nurture its economic ties with its neighboring Arab countries, enter
into an association agreement with the European Union, and sign a
free trade agreement with the United States of America soon after
successfully joining the World Trade Organization (WTO). All those
developments will contribute positively to enhancing Jordan’s export
potential and complementing its efforts to attract foreign investments.
The country’s trade policy is sought to utilize such outcomes in a way
to serve as the engine for growth and a means to improve Jordanians
welfare and standards of living.
For further information, please contact the Jordan Foreign Trade Policy
Department at the Ministry of Industry and Trade at the following
address:
P.O. Box 201

Amman 11195 Jordan
Tel: +962 6 5607191
Fax: +962 6 5607640
http://www.jftp.gov.jo
Free Trade Zones
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Jordan maintains free trade zones at Aqaba, Sahab, Zarqa, Queen Alia
International Airport and on the Jordanian Syrian border in addition to
9 Private Free Zones in Quwaira, Aqaba and Qaa’ Khana, Shidiyeh.
The Zarqa free zone
It was established in 1983 at a 35 Km. roads that link-Jordan with the

neighbouring countries where the State has allocated for the
establishment of this free zone that comprises :
Industrial Investment Sector :
It consists of (50) sectors of an area of 150,000 square meters. 58

industries were licensed including clothes, fire extinguishers,
agricultural equipment, marble, vegetable and mineral oils, printing,
publication, furniture, pre-fab houses, electric pumps assembling,
plastic bags, automotive spare parts, tape recording, building
equipment and computer controlled panels. An area of 300,000 square
meters have been developed recently and supplied with all infra
structure services which are necessary for industrial purposes.
Commercial Investment Sector:
This sector consists of 488 sectors of an area of 1,800,000 square

meters. Additionally, the Corporation has established (25) warehouses
and spacious yards over paved and prepared areas for general storage
purposes whilst the private sector has established about (370)
warehouses for the storage of goods on the lands leased thereto.
The Sector comprises (290) small and car exhibitions with a total area
of 500,000 square meters.
Sahab Free Zone
An area of 62,000 square meters were allocated at Sahab industrial

city for the purpose of serving the industrial investors there and was
opened in the second half of 1997.
Queen Alia International Airport Free Zone
An area of 20,000 square meters was allocated for the purpose of

serving the transit trade of goods transported by air. Work has started
in the first half of 1998 for developing it.
The following goods are prohibited entry in free trade zones: goods
originating from countries with which trading is banned; drugs, except
those determined by the Ministry of Health to be needed by the local
Pharmaceutical industry; rotten or flammable goods as defined by the
free zone authority; and radioactive materials unless approved for
entry by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources.
Aqaba Special Economic Zone
The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) is the statutory

institution empowered with regulatory, administrative, fiscal, and
economic responsibilities for the ASEZA. The Aqaba Special Economic
Zone Law simplifies all procedures, licenses, and approvals enabling
the Authority to provide a business-friendly environment from one
single location in Aqaba.
ASEZA is deeply committed to creating and preserving Aqaba as a

competitive international investment location. ASEZA maintains a
streamlined investment environment and encourages private sector
participation in all aspects of the Zone's development and operations.
This ensures the provision of world-class infrastructure and services to
Aqaba's investors, residents, and visitors alike.
ASEZA is genuinely committed to providing:
A one-stop investment center that serves as a single point of decision

making that will facilitate business start-up and smooth operation;
A world-class business environment that maximizes private sector

participation in a duty-free, tax-advantaged, and continuously
improving investment climate;
A model approach to governance and environmentally sustainable

development.
For more information, please contact the Free Zones Corporation or
the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority at the following addresses:
The Free Zones Corporation

P.O. Box 20036
Amman 11118 Jordan
Tel: +962 5 3826429
Fax: +962 5 3826430
[email protected]
http://www.free-zones.gov.jo
Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority

P.O. Box 2565,
Aqaba 77110 Jordan
Tel: +962 3 203 5757/8
Fax: +962 3 203 0912
http://www.Aqabazone.com
Trade Finance
Trade Financing
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Banking System
The Central Bank of Jordan (CBJ) is the Kingdom's monetary authority

that controls and regulates banking operations. There are twenty one
(21) licensed banks in Jordan, 9 of which are commercial banks, 2
Islamic, 5 branches to foreign banks and five are investment banks.
Laws and Regulations
A Royal Decree endorsed the new Banking Law No. 28 issued in 2000
which became effective from 1/8/2000.
The Central Bank isssud regulations related to group credits. These

guidelines aimed at giving more flexibility to the banks in taking credit
and investment decisions.
Under Article 3 of these regulations, banks were to stop applying for

Central Bank approval when extending or renewing credits to their
clients. The regulations sated that the maximum credit to be extended
to any person and/or associated party should not exceed 25% of a
bank's capital.
For full text of the Banking Law No. 28 for 2000, please click here
For further information, please contact the Central Back of Jordan at


P.O. Box (37)
Amman 11118-Jordan
Tel: +962 6 4630301/10 (10 Lines)
Fax: +962 6 4638889
National Agencies
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Arab Bank
Tel: 962-6-5607115
Fax: 962-6-5606793
P.O. Box : 950454
Zip Code: 11195
http://www.arabbank.com
Arab Banking Corporation (Jordan)

Tel: 962-6-5621801
Fax: 962-6-5686291
P.O. Box : 926691
Zip Code: 11110
E-Mail : [email protected]
http://www.arabbanking.com.jo

Tel: 962-6-4630301
Fax: 962-6-4638889
P.O. Box : 37
Zip Code: 11118
Export and Finance Bank

Tel: 962-6-5694250
Fax: 962-6-5692062
P.O. Box : 941283
Zip Code: 11194
http://www.efhank.com.jo
Industrial Development Bank

Tel: 962-6-4642216
Fax: 962-6-4647821
P.O. Box : 1982
Zip Code: 11118
http://www.indevbank.com
Jordan Bank
Tel: 962-6-5696277
Fax: 962-6-5696291
P.O. Box : 2140
Zip Code: 11181
http://www.bankofjordan.com.jo
The Housing Bank for Trade & Finance

Tel: 962-6-5665513
Fax: 962-6-5690511
P.O. Box : 7693
Zip Code: 11118
http://www.iskanbank.com.jo
Union Bank
Tel: 962-6-5607011
Fax: 962-6-5666149
P.O. Box : 35104
Zip Code: 11183
http://www.unionbankjo.com
Jordan Gulf Bank

Tel: 962-6-5603931
Fax: 962-6-5664110
P.O. Box : 9989
Zip Code: 11191
http://www.jordangulf-bank.com.com
Jordan Kuwait Bank

Tel: 962-6-5688814
Fax: 962-6-5695604
P.O. Box : 9776
Zip Code: 11191
http://www.jordan-kuwait-bank.com
Jordan Investment and Finance Bank
Tel: 962-6-5665145
Fax: 962-6-5681410
P.O. Box : 950601
Zip Code: 11195
http://www.jifbank.com
Arab Joradn Investment Bank

Tel: 962-6-5607126
Fax: 962-6-5681482
P.O. Box : 8797
Zip Code: 11121
http://www.ajib.com
Jordan Islamic Bank for Finance & Investment

Tel: 962-6-5666325
Fax: 962-6-5666326
P.O. Box : 926225
Zip Code: 11190
http://www.jordanislamicbank.com
National Jordan Bank

Tel: 962-6-5622285
Fax: 962-6-5622281
P.O. Box : 3103
Zip Code: 11181
http://www.ahli.com
HSBC Bank Middle East

Tel: 962-6-5518090
Fax: 962-6-5518068
P.O. Box : 925286
Zip Code: 11110
http://www.hsbc.com
Rafidain Bank
Tel: 962-6-4624076
Fax: 962-6-4658698
P.O. Box : 1194
Citibank N.A.
Tel: 962-6-5675100
Fax: 962-6-5674888
P.O. Box : 5055
Zip Code: 11183
http://www.citibank.com/jordan
Middel East Investment Bank

Tel: 962-6-5695470
Fax: 962-6-5693410
P.O. Box : 560
Zip Code: 11118
http://www.meib.com
Egyptian Arab Land Bank

Tel: 962-6-5650181
Fax: 962-6-5650061
P.O. Box : 6729
Zip Code: 11118
http://www.arakari.com.jo
Philadelphia Investment Bank

Tel: 962-6-5663141
Fax: 962-6-5683247
P.O. Box : 925993
Zip Code: 11190
http://www.philibank.com
Cairo Amman Bank
Tel: 962-6-4616910
Fax: 962-6-4642890
P.O. Box : 950661
Zip Code: 11194
http://www.ca-bank.com
ANZ Bank
Tel: 962-6-5607201
Fax: 962-6-5679115
P.O. Box : 9997
Zip Code: 11191
http://www.anz.com
Beit Al-Mal Saveing & Investement for Housing (Beitna)

Tel: 962-6-4641644
Fax: 962-6-4644089
P.O. Box : 811666
Zip Code: 11181
http://www.beitna.com
Agricultural Credit Corporation

Tel: 962-6-5661105
Fax: 962-6-5698365
P.O. Box : 684
Zip Code: 11118
Citizen & Villages Development Bank

Tel: 962-6-5668151
Fax: 962-6-5668153
P.O. Box : 1572
Zip Code: 11118
http://www.jcgsevices.com/cvdb

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Jordan Market Profile

Area: 89,342 Square Km

Population: 5 Million (2000)

Population Growth Rate: 2.8 percent (1999 - 2000)

Religion: Islam, Christianity

Government System: Constitutional Monarchy.

Languages: Arabic (official), English widely spoken

Weights and Measures: Metric system.

Electricity: A.C.50 cycles, 220/380 volts.

Climate: Mild Mediterranean climate

Work Week: Government offices generally are open: From 8 a.m. to 3

Banking hours is 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Holidays: January 1, January 30, May 1, May 25, November 14,

Friday and Saturday are the official weekly holiday.

Principal Imports: Foodstuff, machinery, transport equipment ,

Principal Exports: Mineral and mineral-related products (potash and

Time: GMT (+ 2 in winter, + 3 in summer), or 7 hours ahead of US

Travel and Visa Requirements

Health certificate: Not required.

The business infrastructure in Jordan is reasonably well developed with

In addition to the large-scale industries in Jordan which include

In 2001, the external trade of Jordan amounted to US$ 7127 million of

The Investment Promotion Law accords generous and attractive

In-order to liberate the national economy and increase the flow of

The overall balance of payments achieved a surplus that amounted to

The service balance surplus reached 24.1% of GDP in 2000, up from

For further information please contact the Central Bank of Jordan at

Item 1999 2000

Source: Central Bank of Jordan

In 2000, Jordan's GDP (at current market prices) is estimated at US$

The services sector, which is comprised of financial services, trade,

In addition to the large-scale industries in Jordan which include

In 2001, the external trade of Jordan amounted to US$ 7127 million of

Major Jordanian imports are foodstuff, machinery, and transport

Jordan's main trade partners are European Union countries, United

The most outstanding economic events and improvements ( 2000-

 Jordan's official membership in the World Trade Organization.

Major Political Issues Affecting the Business Climate

 The setback in the peace process.

For further information please contact the Central Bank of Jordan at

Central Bank of Jordan

In-order to liberate the national economy and increase the flow of

In 1996 the Telecommunication Corporation and the Jordanian

The privitization of the Telecommunication Company was finalized on

For further information, please contact the Department of Statistics at

For further information, please contact the Department of Statistics at

Mineral and mineral-related products (potash and phosphate),

Food and live Animals:

- Dairy Products and Eggs

Beverages and Tobacco

Crude Materials, Inedible, Except Fuels:

Animal and Vegetable Oils, Fats and Waxes

- Paper and Cardboard

For further information please contact the Central Bank of Jordan at

Central Bank of Jordan

Foodstuff, machinery, transport equipment , manufactured goods,

Food and Live Animals

Beverages and Tobacco

Crude Materials, Inedible Except Fuels

- Wood and Cork

Jordan's official membership in the World Trade Organization.

The setback in the peace process.

Name of the company.

Nationality of the company.

Objectives of the company in its home country.

Address of the company's head office.

Name of the company's representative in Jordan.

The duration for which the company was incorporated,

The capital of the company, names of the promoters or

Objectives of the company in Jordan.

A certificate of the registration or incorporation of the

The company's Article of Memorandum of Association showing

The company's latest balance sheet or annual report certified

A power of attorney in favor of the company's representative

Any recent brochures or literature setting forth the activities,

The name, type, and share capital of the company.

The objectives of the company in Jordan.

Detailed information concerning the founders or partners of

The Articles of Memorandum of Association of the foreign

Written official evidence of approval from the relevant

A list of the names of the members of the foreign company’s

A copy of the proxy according to which the foreign company

A balance sheet authenticated by a licensed auditor for the

Name, nationality, address of promoters and their respective

The name, objectives, share capital, duration and head office

Detailed provisions governing, inter-alia, the management of