The Taj Company for Manufacturing Tobacco and Cigarettes to establish a factory in Ma'an Development Area

As a result of the agreement, Taj Tobacco and Cigarettes Company will establish a factory to manufacture tobacco and cigarettes in the "Industrial Park" of the Ma'an Development Area.

The Tobacco and Cigarettes factory is expected to contribute to the job market in Ma'an by creating 150 job opportunities, once operational in 2009. The factory will be set up to accommodate a production capacity of up to 100 tons per month.

The agreement is one of the many steps being initiated by SCCD to attract investments and stimulate economic and social developments in the South of Jordan, through the mounting of projects that can provide job opportunities, and increase economic and social prosperity in the southern regions of the Kingdom.

Awni Motee' commented during the signing: "We are pleased to institute this partnership, which will enhance the capacity building of workers in the Ma'an area while contributing to secure job opportunities and support the goals for the development of this vital region." He added: "We look forward to additional investments in the near future within Ma'an Development Area's Industrial Park which we strongly believe will serve as a regional hub for industrial investments."

Additionally, Mr. Motee', who is also Chairman of the Health Aid Society that sponsors around 25 thousand patients through 14 health clinics in the Kingdom, announced his plan to establish health clinics in the Area of Ma'an which would treat ill patients free of charge.

Consisting of four complementary clusters including a residential community, an industrial zone, a Hajj city, and a vocational training center, the Ma'an Development Area (MDA) is set to become a regional hub for industrial activity and a centre of excellence for vocational training, as well as a religious landmark for pilgrims on their way to the Holy cities, offering them the ideal environment for their rest, relaxation and prayer.

MDA will also be home to a thriving and self-sustained city providing its residents and visitors with a quality living and working environment to fulfill their potential.