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TRADE POLICY REVIEW:

Concluding remarks by the Chairperson

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This first Trade Policy Review of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan has allowed us to improve our understanding of its trade and related policies, and the developments since its accession to the WTO in 2000. Our discussions have greatly benefited from the participation of H.E. Amer Al-Hadidi, Minister of Industry and Trade, and his delegation. We are also grateful for the contribution of our discussant, Mr. Teepu Khan, and for the full engagement of many Members.

Members commended Jordan on its impressive economic performance in spite of a challenging external environment. High real GDP growth, relatively low inflation, and a declining public debt are the fruits of an ambitious economic reform programme centred on structural reforms and trade liberalization. While Jordan's measures to liberalize its investment regime were welcomed, it was also noted that foreign investment remains restricted in certain activities, notably transport services. Members encouraged Jordan to improve its business environment, strengthen competitiveness and further open up its economy, with a view to diversifying it.

Members recognized Jordan's commitment to the WTO, including the current round of trade negotiations. They also acknowledged Jordan's participation in various regional and bilateral trade agreements. It was noted that the reduction of bound tariff rates, and further simplification and rationalization of Jordan's tariff regime should contribute to better resource allocation. Some Members encouraged Jordan to reform its government procurement regime, and looked forward to its accession to the plurilateral Agreement on Government Procurement. Clarification was sought on why a penalty is charged at customs when importers fail to present an importer card and as to why not all importers were eligible for an importer card.

A number of concerns were also raised, notably with regard to certain aspects of Jordan's SPS regime, compliance with notification obligations under the WTO, customs procedures (including customs formalities), import prohibitions and licensing, price controls, and internal taxation. Members also asked questions with respect to technical barriers to trade; intellectual property; agriculture; energy; manufacturing (including textiles and clothing); and services. Jordan was reminded of its commitment to phase out export subsidies by 2015 at the latest. Some Members also urged that trade-related technical assistance be provided to Jordan.

Members expressed their appreciation for the responses provided by the Jordanian delegation to questions that were posed during the review exercise, and looked forward to receiving written answers to any outstanding questions within one month.

In conclusion, Members congratulated Jordan on the positive economic results it has achieved since its WTO accession. They encouraged Jordan to pursue its reforms and improve its multilateral commitments on goods and services, with a view to enhancing the transparency and predictability of its trade regime, and adherence to WTO principles. Members could help by keeping their markets open for products and services of interest to Jordan.

Once again, I thank Members for their active participation in the first Trade Policy Review of Jordan and the Secretariat for the excellent report. I also thank the interpreters for their usual and efficient good work.

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