Amman, April 27 (Petra) -- Minister of Tourism and Antiquities Imad Hijazin held separate meetings on Monday with leaders of the hotel, restaurant, and travel agency sectors to discuss the sectors' current challenges and strategies for resilience.
The discussions, which included the heads of the Jordan Hotels Association (JHA), Hussein Helalat, the Jordan Restaurants Association (JRA), Essam Fakhrueddien, and the Jordan Society of Tourism and Travel Agents (JSTA), Mahmoud Khasawneh, focused on mitigating the impact of ongoing regional instability on the kingdom's tourism industry.
Hijazin proposed a joint mechanism to categorize the level of impact on different sub-sectors and called for the creation of a comprehensive operational matrix. This matrix aims to implement short-term and long-term solutions, with priority given to the most affected tourist sites across the country.
The minister emphasized the need for a data-driven assessment of the sector's financial losses. He also noted that the government is exploring ways to reduce operational costs for businesses to maintain competitiveness, while simultaneously targeting new source markets through integrated promotional campaigns.
Chairman of the Lower House Tourism and Antiquities Committee Salem Omari underscored the importance of legislative support. He stated that parliament would back any regulatory measures or incentives that ensure the sector's sustainability and stimulate investment, citing its vital role in the national economy and employment.
Industry representatives presented several proposals, including the activation of specialized technical committees to prioritize urgent reforms. They also called for improved electronic connectivity and unified databases among relevant government agencies to streamline decision-making.
Association leaders expressed their commitment to working closely with the ministry to develop innovative tourism products. They noted that diversifying target markets and enhancing Jordan’s appeal as a safe and distinct destination remain the top priorities for ensuring the industry's long-term survival.
//Petra// AF
