Irbid, May 3 (Petra) – Minister of Government Communication Mohammad Momani announced a series of Cabinet decisions following a meeting held Sunday in Irbid, chaired by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan.

At a post-meeting press conference, Momani said the Cabinet approved funding to maintain the Ramtha–Forty Street road, a key route in the governorate, in response to requests from local representatives.

The Cabinet agreed to form a committee, headed by the Minister of Transport, to examine transport options linking Irbid's districts with industrial and development zones to facilitate workers' access.

Funding mechanisms would be determined through either public investment or government support.

The Prime Minister directed a review of tax and customs exemptions, with recommendations to be submitted to help ease pressures on businesses and taxpayers.

In the transport sector, the Cabinet approved several regulatory amendments for 2026, covering vehicle registration, license plates and driver licensing fees.

The updated vehicle registration system allows expired licenses to be renewed for one year from the renewal date. Fees would now be calculated based on the actual validity period rather than the full licensing term, simplifying procedures.

Amendments to the vehicle plate system introduce more flexible, indefinite fee exemptions for individuals wishing to relinquish paid plate numbers, replacing the previous one-year limit.

Updated fee regulations include new charges for certain licensing services and introduce an online booking system for practical driving tests.

As part of efforts to strengthen energy security and sustainability, the Cabinet approved the updated Energy Sector Strategy (2025–2035). The plan focuses on increasing reliance on domestic energy sources, boosting renewable energy to 50% by 2035 and reducing emissions.

Key projects include developing the Risha gas field by 2029, expanding gas supply to Amman and Zarqa by 2030 and upgrading the oil refinery to a capacity of 73,000 barrels per day.

The strategy aims to improve energy efficiency, reduce electricity losses to 8% and introduce time-based tariffs starting in 2027.

The plan supports hydrogen production and export, expansion of electric vehicle use, development of public transport and increased adoption of clean energy technologies.

In a major investment move, the Cabinet approved a $1 billion agreement between the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources and the Jordan Green Ammonia Company to develop a green hydrogen and ammonia production facility in Aqaba.

The project, expected to begin operations in 2030, would produce around 100,000 tons annually and position Aqaba as a regional hub for clean energy exports.

The Cabinet approved a temporary exemption for marketing companies from unified fees on petroleum derivatives until the end of the year to help stabilise prices amid global increases.

To improve the business environment, the government endorsed an executive plan to reform sectoral licensing systems, aiming to streamline procedures, reduce regulatory burdens and enhance investor confidence.

The reforms introduce a risk-based regulatory approach and a principle whereby applications may be automatically approved if not processed within specified timeframes.

The Cabinet approved a memorandum of understanding between the Ministry of Digital Economy and Entrepreneurship and a U.S.-based technology firm in Maryland on innovation collaboration and attraction of investment into Jordan's tech sector.

Momani discussed key development projects in Irbid, including infrastructure upgrades around Princess Basma Hospital, the establishment of a cancer treatment centre, completion of the governorate's ring road and plans to convert the old Irbid Hospital into a comprehensive health centre.

He said that the government is committed to maintaining direct engagement with local communities and improving development outcomes, while marking World Press Freedom Day and reaffirming Jordan's commitment to press freedom.

//Petra// AK