Ammon News - Jordan’s national exports to the European Union grew by 4.4% in 2024, reaching JD 427 million, compared to JD 409 million in 2023, according to foreign trade data from the Department of Statistics.

Meanwhile, the country’s imports from the EU declined slightly by 0.5% last year, amounting to JD 2.861 billion, down from JD 2.874 billion in 2023. As a result, Jordan’s trade deficit with the EU narrowed to JD 2.434 billion, compared to JD 2.465 billion in the previous year.

Total trade volume between Jordan and the EU remained relatively stable, reaching JD 3.288 billion in 2024, compared to JD 3.283 billion in 2023.

The Netherlands emerged as the top destination for Jordanian exports within the EU, with shipments rising by 16.5% to JD 92 million in 2024, up from JD 79 million in 2023. Conversely, France remained Jordan’s largest EU supplier, with imports from the country totaling JD 267 million last year, a 2.8% decline from JD 275 million in 2023.

Ali Murad, President of the Jordanian-European Business Association (JEBA), described the increase in exports as a positive sign of continued trade engagement between Jordan and the EU, despite its modest scale.

Murad highlighted several strategic measures to sustain and enhance export growth, including diversifying export products beyond their current limited range, particularly in sectors such as pharmaceuticals, apparel, and chemicals. He also emphasized the need for stronger support mechanisms for exporters through financial, technical, and logistical assistance to improve competitiveness in European markets.

He further noted the importance of simplifying rules of origin, with the EU’s relaxed regulations extended until 2030, and strengthening trade links between Jordanian businesses and European buyers through participation in trade fairs and business events. Additionally, he underscored the need to leverage new agreements, such as the recently signed Jordan-EU agricultural trade deal, which aims to expand export opportunities.

Murad also stressed the importance of providing exporters with accurate information on EU market requirements and attracting more foreign investment to enhance Jordan’s export capacity.

In January, His Majesty King Abdullah II and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen attended the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between Jordan and the EU in Brussels. The EU announced a €3 billion financial assistance package for Jordan for 2025-2027, including €640 million in grants, €1.4 billion in investments, and €1 billion in macroeconomic support. Petra