Amman, Nov. 19 (Petra) -- Jordanian industrialists have hailed King Abdullah II’s recent visits to several factories in the Qastal area south of Amman as a strong signal of royal support for the country’s industrial sector and a boost to investor confidence.

Industry leaders told Petra that the King’s hands-on engagement motivates companies to expand production and innovate, reflecting the essential role of industry in strengthening economic resilience, achieving self-sufficiency, increasing exports, creating jobs, and supporting Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision.

During his visits, His Majesty toured the Pharma International Company, a subsidiary of Axantia Group, Haj Mahmoud Habibah and Sons, and Jitan Group (Paradise Bakeries). These factories collectively employ thousands of Jordanians and export to dozens of countries worldwide.

The Jordanian industrial sector employs around 250,000 workers, 90% of whom are Jordanians, across 18,000 companies producing approximately 1,500 goods. Exports now reach nearly 150 countries.

Fathi Jaghbeer, President of the Jordan and Amman Chambers of Industry, said the King’s visits send a strong message of confidence in the sector and highlight the central role of industry in national economic growth and job creation. He noted that ongoing royal directives have resulted in government measures such as amendments to customs tariffs to enhance the competitiveness of local manufacturers.

Mohammed Walid Jitan, CEO of Jitan Group, emphasized that the royal presence inspires industrialists to increase production, improve product quality, and expand operations. He noted that the visits signal the importance of supporting domestic industry and removing obstacles to growth, particularly in the food sector, which has shown remarkable expansion this year.

The Jitan Group operates across multiple sectors, providing 450 jobs and exporting to around 20 countries, with some products allocated to the World Food Programme. Jitan highlighted that the food sector has become a cornerstone of Jordan’s industrial development, generating employment and boosting exports.

Abdulmonem Al-Ali, CEO of the Pharma International Company, said the visit represents a milestone for the company, which operates in 19 countries and contributes 17% of Jordan’s local pharmaceutical production and 11% of exports. He noted that His Majesty emphasized the importance of expanding production and export capacities to reinforce Jordan’s position as a regional hub for pharmaceuticals.

Al-Ali also highlighted the King’s recent Asian tours, including Indonesia and Vietnam, which strengthened partnerships with regional pharmaceutical companies. The Axantia Group itself emerged from a strategic partnership with Saudi Arabia’s Al Faisaliah Group to boost regional pharmaceutical security and industry growth.

Fadi Atrash, representing Jordan’s therapeutic and medical supplies sector, said the King’s visits underscore confidence in Jordan’s pharmaceutical industry, its role in employment, training, and competitiveness, and its ability to reach around 85 markets globally, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq, UAE, Algeria, Yemen, and the United States.

Mohannad Habibah, CEO of Haj Mahmoud Habibah and Sons, said the King’s visit to their newly opened Qastal factory, employing mostly Jordanians, reflects a commitment to growing local industry. The factory, built on a 75-year family legacy, employs around 500 people (90% Jordanians), supplies the local market with various sweets, exports to 20 countries, and operates branches in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia.

Overall, the visits reinforce the King’s ongoing support for innovation, industrial growth, and international competitiveness, while highlighting the private sector’s role in implementing Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision.

//Petra// WH