AGP Executive Report

Jordan–UK Economic Ties: Jordan’s Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yarub Qudah co-chaired the Jordan–UK Partnership Council in London, saying Jordanian exports to the UK jumped 88% in the first four months to $37.2m, while imports fell 17% to $115.2m, narrowing the trade deficit. Primary Healthcare Boost: Jordan’s Health Minister Ibrahim Al-Bdour signed a letter of intent with Spain to launch “Ri’aya 2,” backed by a €5.5m grant to strengthen primary healthcare in Zarqa, including capacity building and service quality. Refugee Support: Japan pledged $6m to UNHCR in Jordan to help around 330,800 refugees with protection services, healthcare access, and basic needs. Jordan Economy Watch: The Central Bank of Jordan reported foreign reserves rising to $26.1bn by end-June 2026, while the Amman Stock Exchange saw JD 11.1m in trading and a 0.59% rise in the General Index. Governance & Integrity: Jordan’s government moved to regulate ministerial conduct and prevent conflicts of interest among ministers. Regional Water Pressure: Jordan condemned Damascus bombings and renewed concerns over water security as Israel’s refusal to renew an expired water deal raised fears of a wider crisis.

Jordan-Israel Water Talks: Israel has halted renewal of a water deal with Jordan that boosts supplies at reduced prices, with officials warning the issue could trigger a response from Amman and deepen already strained ties since the Gaza war. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan’s Deputy PM and FM Ayman Safadi met Uzbekistan’s President Shavkat Mirziyoyev in Tashkent, pushing implementation of outcomes from King Abdullah’s 2025 visit and expanding trade, investment, tourism, and direct Amman–Tashkent flights. Local Governance: In Jordan town (Guimaras), the mayor asked the municipal council to temporarily waive a P100 swine entry permit fee to encourage compliance with African Swine Fever controls while keeping biosecurity requirements in force. World Bank Income Status: The World Bank upgraded Jordan to upper-middle-income status, alongside Vietnam, Sri Lanka, the Philippines, and Micronesia—an economic milestone that may shape policy and political debate. Sports & Politics: FIFA’s controversial Balogun red-card reversal continues to spark claims of political interference, while England’s Jordan Henderson is reported to be out for the rest of the World Cup with a wrist injury.

World Cup Politics: UEFA blasted FIFA after Trump reportedly pushed for Folarin Balogun’s red-card suspension to be lifted, warning the move “crossed a red line” and could undermine tournament rules. Gaza Update: Israeli strikes across Gaza since dawn killed at least eight Palestinians and wounded 16, as Hamas said it dissolved its de facto governing body to enable a technocratic administration. West Bank Settlements: Israel’s far-right finance minister Bezalel Smotrich called a “revolution in settlement” expansion, following cabinet approval for 13 new settlements, with Palestinians warning it will further isolate East Jerusalem. Jordan Economy & Governance: Jordan was upgraded to upper-middle-income status by the World Bank, while the Jordan Investor Confidence Index fell in Q1 2026; separately, Jordan’s parliament and officials highlighted deepening ties with Egypt and steps to strengthen ministerial integrity. Local Development: Jordan Summer Festival continues across governorates, and the Jordan Valley Authority opened a tourism investment project overlooking the Wala Dam in Madaba.

Government Integrity: Prime Minister Jafar Hassan ordered an “urgent” bylaw to curb conflicts of interest, bar ministers from personal gains, and tighten rules on tenders, bids, and privileged information. Public Works: The National Water Carrier Project is set to start in Q4 2026, with construction expected to take about four years and pumping planned for Q4 2030; the updated scope now includes desalination, a transmission network, and a solar power plant. Jordan-Economy Watch: World Bank coverage highlights Jordan’s wider economic reform push, including electricity-sector efficiency support and ongoing restructuring efforts. Regional Energy Supplies: Strait of Hormuz reopening eased fertiliser supply worries, with shipments crossing safely and stocks expected to rise—an issue that can quickly affect regional food and farming costs. Sports (Jordan-linked): England’s World Cup last-16 win over Mexico sparked headlines across the region, including a freak injury to Jordan Henderson during celebrations.

Social Protection Talks: Jordan’s Social Development Minister Wafa Bani Mustafa met Spain’s ambassador to discuss expanding cooperation on social programs, including support for children, people with disabilities, and vulnerable families. Water Project Update: The Ministry of Water and Irrigation pushed back on misleading media claims about the National Conveyance Project, saying negotiations cut expected costs by about $2.5 billion and stressing the project’s strategic role amid rising water-sector debt. Road Works in Amman: Maintenance for the Russeifa Bridge expansion joints starts Monday on the Amman Development Road, with partial lane diversions to keep traffic moving. Tourism Push: The Jordan Tourism Board says low-cost airline routes are targeted to return in September or October to boost visitor numbers and tourism competitiveness. Agriculture Exports: Jordan’s agricultural exports rose 14% in the first half of 2026, with strong gains in vegetable, fruit, and egg exports. Business Trade: Amman Chamber of Commerce reported a 25.2% jump in export certificates of origin value to about 768 million dinars in H1 2026. Heritage Digitisation: Ajloun Governorate launched work on an “Ajloun Digital Knowledge Encyclopedia” to document and digitize local history and cultural heritage. Humanitarian Solidarity: Jordan’s humanitarian response to Venezuela’s earthquake was praised as 21 evacuated Jordanian citizens returned via a Jordanian-Qatari air bridge.

West Bank Violence: Palestinian officials say settler attacks and raids across the occupied West Bank left more than 20 people wounded, with calls for urgent international protection as Israel approves new settlement moves. Gaza Humanitarian Pressure: The UN warns that expanding Israeli-controlled areas are squeezing Gaza’s 2.1 million residents into smaller spaces, worsening access to food, water, and medical aid. Jordan Integrity Watch: JIACC Chairman Hazem Al-Majali denied social-media claims that the commission refers case files to the government, saying referrals go only to the Public Prosecutor and warning of legal accountability for inaccurate reporting. World Bank & Economy: Jordan was upgraded to an upper-middle-income status, alongside World Bank financing aimed at boosting investment and jobs. Amman City Services: Greater Amman Municipality says reserving public parking spaces outside shops is a violation and will not be permitted. Regional Diplomacy: King Abdullah sent congratulations to US President Donald Trump on America’s 250th independence day, highlighting the Jordan–US strategic partnership. Humanitarian Cooperation: Jordan Red Crescent hosted a regional workshop to strengthen how Red Cross/Red Crescent societies support ministry-led immunization efforts.

World Bank Upgrade: Jordan has been reclassified as an upper-middle-income economy, with its GNI per capita rising to US$5,260 after a national accounts rebasing, effective 1 July 2026. Electricity Reform Update: The World Bank restructured Jordan’s Electricity Sector Efficiency and Supply Reliability Program, extending a key electricity market-structure reform deadline to 31 Dec 2026 due to delays tied to regional geopolitical tensions. Customs Digital Leap: Jordan Customs’ “Trade and Logistics Performance Gateway” was named among the top 13 pioneer projects in the 2026 Digital Economy Lighthouse Awards, highlighting progress in digital customs services. Power Supply Push: Energy experts say planned 700MW power plants could strengthen electricity security, but stress the need for an integrated approach covering renewables and grid upgrades. Market Oversight: Jordan Standards and Metrology seized 1,212 violating motor oil containers, with legal procedures underway and consumers urged to buy from licensed shops. Amman Economy Watch: The Amman Stock Exchange saw lower weekly trading volume and a 1.52% drop in the General Share Price Index. Local Enforcement: Greater Amman Municipality warned that reserving public parking spaces outside shops is a violation and will not be permitted.

World Cup & Palestine Solidarity: Egypt beat Australia on penalties to reach the Round of 16, with coach Hossam Hassan dedicating the win and raising a Palestinian flag. Regional Humanitarian Pressure: UN chief António Guterres warned UNRWA is nearing a “breaking point,” urging urgent funding to prevent collapse as Gaza conditions worsen. Jordan-Linked Trade Scrutiny: U.S. USTR set forced-labour trade hearings (July 7–9), with Jordan among countries expected to present positions. Jordan Economy Watch: World Bank upgraded Jordan to upper-middle-income status, while Amman Stock Exchange trading figures and foreign investor holdings were also reported. Local Development & Water: Jordan plans wastewater treatment O&M tenders by 2027, alongside broader infrastructure and drought-resilience efforts. Amman Tourism Spotlight: Palm Valley (Wadi Al-Ghweir) is gaining eco-tourism attention for biodiversity, springs and hiking trails. Legal & Rights: Cair sued Florida’s governor over a “domestic terrorist” designation, calling it baseless.

World Bank Upgrade for Jordan: Jordan has been reclassified as an upper-middle-income country in the World Bank’s Fiscal Year 2027 update, effective July 1, 2026, after a statistical “rebasing” that revised the economy to be about 10% larger than previously estimated; Jordan’s GNI per capita under the Atlas method rose to about $5,260, clearing the UMIC threshold by $624. Agriculture Exports Push: The Ministry of Agriculture says 19 companies exported agricultural products under the government’s agricultural export support programme, with total support exceeding JD 1.059 million; the initiative includes freight subsidies (50% air, 25% maritime) and says more than 500 farmers benefited. Damascus Bombing: Syria’s capital saw a deadly cafe blast near the Palace of Justice, killing nine to 10 people including six lawyers, with authorities pledging to identify the perpetrators. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan’s foreign policy coverage also includes calls around Syria and broader Middle East security, as Arab states condemn attacks and press for accountability.

Iraq–Jordan Energy Push: Iraq and Jordan agreed to speed up the Basra–Aqaba Strategic Oil Pipeline, a 1,700-kilometre project aimed at moving up to 2.5 million barrels per day and boosting Iraq’s export routes while giving Jordan discounted oil and transit revenues. Amman Business & Investment Climate: Amman Mineral Internasional (AMMN) is seen moving into a higher-value phase as downstream processing ramps up, with copper cathodes and refined gold expected to drive earnings from Q2 2026. Public Transport & Urban Tech: Jordan’s second phase of a regular public transport project is set to launch soon, alongside reports on smart transportation and digital transformation supporting Amman’s shift to a more sustainable city. Local Economy & Exports: Jordan’s exports to EU markets surged, while Irbid’s industrial exports hit $590m in the first half of 2026, reflecting continued momentum in trade and production. Regional Security Context: Jordan and Iraq also discussed wider bilateral cooperation during talks tied to the pipeline push.

Regional Trade Security: The US and 12 Arab states agreed in Bahrain to boost coordination to keep shipping moving through the Strait of Hormuz, with CENTCOM stressing stronger air and missile defence cooperation. Jordanian Economy & Investment: The World Bank backed Jordan’s economic reform path with a $700m boost, while IMF reporting says reforms are staying on track despite regional conflict. Agriculture Exports: Minister of Agriculture Khleifat said 19 companies and about 500 farmers benefited from JD 1m in fresh fruit and vegetable export support, covering 50% of air freight and 25% of sea freight. Digital Youth Push: Jordan’s Digital Economy and Youth ministries signed an MoU to expand “Future Stations” in youth centers nationwide, targeting skills in AI, programming, and cybersecurity. Amman Markets: Foreign investors held 46.4% of Amman Stock Exchange market value at end-June 2026, with Arab investors dominating foreign buying. Tourism Sector: Amman Chamber of Commerce and JITOA discussed booking declines, cancellations, and the need for faster marketing and airline traffic support after regional shocks.

World Bank Financing for Jordan: The World Bank approved a $700 million loan to help Jordan turn macroeconomic stability into more private investment and jobs, with support for green and digital transition and easier access to finance. Human Rights Online: In Amman, the National Center for Human Rights ran a two-day workshop on digital violence, urging an observatory, stronger Cybercrime Unit support, school reporting mechanisms, and adding the topic to school curricula to protect children, women, the elderly and people with disabilities. UNRWA Funding Alarm: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned UNRWA is nearing a “breaking point” amid a $100 million shortfall, stressing restrictions and rising risks for Palestinian refugees across Gaza, the West Bank, East Jerusalem, Lebanon, Jordan and Syria. Regional Diplomacy: Iraq’s PM met the GCC secretary-general in Baghdad to discuss strengthening ties and cooperation, as Baghdad seeks to repair Gulf relations after the Iran war. Venezuela Earthquake Response: A Jordanian rescue team helped pull a 3-year-old boy alive from rubble in Caracas six days after twin quakes, as survivors still face food and shelter shortages.

World Bank Support for Jordan: The World Bank approved a $700 million loan to back Jordan’s reforms, aiming to boost private investment, expand access to finance, create jobs, and speed up the green and digital transition. Jordan Economy Watch: Jordan’s industrial sector grew 4.8% in Q1 2026, with manufacturing leading, and industry contributing about 1.15 percentage points to overall growth. Energy Infrastructure: Construction is underway on the Iraq–Jordan electricity interconnection, including 63 transmission towers, with technical work expected to finish within two months. World Cup Money for Jordan: FIFA approved $10.5 million for Jordan’s 2026 World Cup participation, including $9 million for playing and $1.5 million for preparation. Aqaba Environment Drive: Jordan’s Civil Defense and Public Security joined a campaign to clean marine debris and harmful waste from the sea, coordinated with ASEZA. Regional Diplomacy: UN envoy María Ángela Holguín faced pushback from Turkish Cypriot leadership during renewed Cyprus peace efforts. Humanitarian Update: Jordanian rescuers helped pull a 3-year-old boy alive from rubble in Venezuela six days after the twin quakes, as survivors seek food and shelter.

UNRWA Funding Crisis: UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres warned UNRWA is nearing a “breaking point,” urging countries to plug a $100 million shortfall as restrictions across Gaza and the West Bank hamper aid to 2.6 million Palestinian refugees, with Türkiye also condemning “unprecedented political pressure” on the agency. Venezuela Quakes: After twin earthquakes killed nearly 2,000 and left tens of thousands missing, hopes are fading, but a Jordanian civil defense team pulled a 3-year-old boy alive from rubble in Caracas six days later, highlighting how rare rescues are as the search stretches on. Regional Diplomacy: Iraq’s foreign minister said Baghdad is working to “repair” Gulf relations after tensions tied to the Iran war, following talks with the GCC secretary-general in Baghdad. Local Development: Irbid’s government-backed plan outlines about 140 projects worth nearly 700 million dinars for 2024-2026, including health upgrades, education expansion, and infrastructure works. Crossing Pain Points: A report on the King Hussein Bridge describes long, exhausting procedures and recurring traveler complaints about informal costs and services, calling for smoother operations.

Fuel Prices Hold Steady: Jordan’s Fuel Pricing Committee kept July petroleum prices unchanged after a partial global decline, setting Octane 90 at 1,000 fils, Octane 95 at 1,310 fils, diesel at 850 fils, kerosene at 550 fils, and the 12.5kg household gas cylinder at JD7, while noting about JD3.2m in July support for industrial LPG and roughly JD198m in total crisis-era price-gap coverage. UNRWA Funding Urgency: UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged immediate funding for UNRWA, warning of a severe shortfall that could disrupt humanitarian operations amid worsening conditions in Gaza and ongoing hardships for Palestine refugees across the region, including Jordan. Women’s Jobs at Risk: UN Women and ESCWA warned the Middle East crisis could cost Arab states up to $194bn and put millions of jobs at risk, with women in countries including Jordan facing disproportionate losses. Jordan Economy & Industry: FAO launched a Japanese-funded project to boost drought resilience in Jordan, while the Jordan Chamber of Industry rolled out its “Industrialist’s Compass” series and reports highlighted growth in industrial exports and logistics momentum. Regional Diplomacy: Jordan condemned Israeli attacks targeting Syria’s security and extended condolences to Qatar over a citizen injured by shrapnel from regional military operations.

Jordan’s Regional Diplomacy: Jordan condemned continued Israeli attacks on Syria’s security and demanded an end to all Israeli aggressions targeting Syria. Amman Development & Tourism: A Jordanian government-owned company awarded a British-Saudi coalition a design and feasibility tender for the Kingdom’s largest amusement park in the Amra City project, covering 200 dunams with operations planned by end-2028. Women’s Safety Policy: The Ministry of Social Development unveiled a national plan to combat violence against women and children. Environment in Amra City: JCDCF and RSCN will establish a major ecological park within the Amra City project. Digital & Youth Initiatives: Orange Jordan sponsored the Javier Saviola Challenge, using football trials to promote positive digital behavior and warn families about cyberbullying and screen-time risks. Regional Security: Saudi Arabia, Qatar and Jordan condemned Israeli incursions into Syria, while Jordan also extended condolences to Qatar over a citizen injured by shrapnel from regional military operations.