Zarqa, July 5 (Petra) – Industrial exports from Zarqa increased by 15% during the first half of 2026, driven by stronger demand in Arab markets, according to figures released by the Zarqa Chamber of Industry.

Chamber President Fares Hamouda said total exports reached $769 million, up from $666.2 million in the same period last year. Exports in June alone surged 64% to $163.8 million, compared with $100 million in June 2025.

Arab countries remained the largest export destination, accounting for 46% of total exports at $353.3 million, a 20% increase year-on-year. Iraq was the leading market with $168.5 million in exports, up 49%, followed by Saudi Arabia with $77.9 million and the UAE with $18.8 million.

Exports to North America rose 12% to $304.4 million, representing 40% of total exports. Shipments to the United States reached $293.2 million, while exports to Canada increased 20% to $10.1 million.

Exports to non-Arab Asian countries climbed 47% to $62.6 million, while exports to the European Union declined 5% to $19 million.

By sector, leather and textiles remained the largest contributor with $321.3 million in exports, up 10%.

Food, beverages, agriculture and livestock products ranked second with $184.4 million, marking the strongest growth at 47%. Engineering, electrical and IT exports rose 13% to $73.8 million, while construction exports fell 20% to $56.7 million.

Packaging and paper exports increased 49% to $42.2 million, plastics and rubber exports rose 50% to $28.4 million and chemical and cosmetics exports remained steady at $37.1 million.

Exports of therapeutic and medical supplies declined 15% to $23.3 million.

//Petra// AK