Amman, Aug. 25 (Petra) -- Jordan looks to Uzbekistan in the heart of Central Asia as a new economic partner to expand into new markets and showcase the Kingdom’s diverse investment opportunities, economists say.

His Majesty King Abdullah II’s state visit to Uzbekistan and talks with President Shavkat Mirziyoyev is a new chapter in economic and trade relations, as bilateral agreements and cooperation protocols will be signed during the trip.

In interviews with Petra, economists spoke of prospects, particularly in pharmaceuticals, textiles, home appliances, IT, agriculture, tourism, education, and mining. They noted the close relationship between the two countries' leaderships and the importance of forging broader cooperation, diversify trade partnerships, and business-to-business links.

The royal visit is a key opportunity to expand Jordan’s export base into a promising market with significant economic potential, said Jordan Exporters Association President, Senator Ahmad Khudari. He said Jordanian exporters stand to benefit from access to the Uzbek market, particularly in pharmaceuticals, chemicals, fertilizers, and agricultural products.

Jordan Businessmen Association President Hamdi Tabbaa underlined the need to leverage mutual interests and opportunities, noting that both countries’ strategic locations and stable investment climates are a solid foundation for joint projects.

He pointed to a memorandum of understanding between the association and Uzbekistan’s Chamber of Commerce and Industry as a tool to further deepen cooperation.

Amman Chamber of Commerce Vice President Nabil Khatib commented that the royal visit will give momentum to economic exchanges through opening new channels for private sector cooperation.

Although bilateral trade is below ambitions, Khatib said, Uzbekistan is a market rich in opportunities, especially in agriculture, light industries, and natural resources, calling for boosting trade, easing visa procedures, and enhancing transport and tourism between the two countries.

Jordanian exports to Uzbekistan include chemicals, pharmaceuticals, and plastics, while imports are mainly copper and food products, according to official data. Jordan also has export potential in phosphate acid, natural phosphates, and chalk products.

The two countries recorded notable growth in trade, reaching about $6 million in 2023, compared with $2.9 million in 2022, which pointed to a promising start.

//Petra// AO

25/08/2025 16:27:17