Customs duties hinder Jordanian exports to Iraq

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(File photo: Jordan News)
AMMAN— On Saturday, manufacturers highlighted numerous obstacles impeding the surge in exports from Jordan to neighboring Iraq. These challenges include customs duties, delays in bank transfers, and visa-related procedures.اضافة اعلان

 During a meeting held at the Amman Chamber of Industry, they pointed out additional challenges related to protective measures taken by the Iraqi side, high fees, multiple inspections, and delays in processing transactions at land border crossings, Al-Ghad reported.

 They affirmed that the ongoing challenges in bilateral trade between the two countries weaken investment opportunities for achieving economic integration and establishing joint projects.

President of the Amman Chambers of Industry, Fathi Jaghbir stated that the chambers will compile a list of the most significant issues hindering the increase in trade between the two countries to be followed up with relevant authorities and communication with the Iraqi side for resolution.

Stressing that Iraq is a key economic partner for Jordan due to the distinguished historical relationship between the two countries, Jaghbir emphasized significant opportunities for cooperation between the private sectors of both countries, contributing to industrial integration.

Jaghbir stressed the need to recognize conformity certificates issued by official authorities in both countries, especially since third parties charge significant amounts for issuing these certificates, in addition to shipping delays. He pointed out the Chamber's intention to issue certificates of origin bearing QR codes to distinguish Jordanian products, hoping that this will serve as an alternative to certification by the embassy.

On his part, Ahmad Al-Amili, a Member of the board of directors of the Iraqi Business Council (IBC) in Amman, explained that Jordanian products are highly popular in the Iraqi market due to their high quality, especially as Iraq is currently experiencing a significant economic resurgence in all sectors, enabling it to absorb many Jordanian products.

Furthermore, Chief Executive Officer at IBC, Abir Al-Naib announced the organization of the Economic Forum for Financial, Industrial, and Commercial Partnerships between Iraq, Jordan, and the region, in cooperation with the chamber, during May 5 and 6 at the King Hussein bin Talal Convention Center at the Dead Sea area.

Naib noted that the forum will discuss the most important issues hindering the increase in trade between the two countries and will include an exhibition for companies interested in showcasing their products, as well as bilateral business meetings.

In 2023, the volume of trade between the two countries reached JD833 million, with Jordanian exports to the Iraqi market totaling JD637 million. 


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