Jordan » Business
Statistics
- GDP: US$20 billion (2008).
- Main Exports: Phosphates, potash, fertilisers, pharmaceuticals and clothing.
- Main Imports: Crude oil, manufactured goods, machinery and textile fabrics.
- Main Trade Partners: Saudi Arabia, USA, Iraq, China (PR) and India.
Economy
Jordan is a member of various pan-Arab economic bodies, notably the Council of Arab Economic Co-operation and the Arab Monetary Fund. Jordan also belongs to the World Trade Organization (WTO) and has a free trade accord with the USA and an association agreement with the EU.
Employment has proved a challenge for the government through the past decade and many Jordanian workers have moved abroad in search of employment - a trend the government is trying to reverse. To help improve productivity and make Jordan a more attractive country for foreign investment, the government has reduced its debt-to-GDP ratio. A major challenge now facing Jordan is reducing dependence on foreign grants.
Most of Jordan's top hotels have fully equipped conference facilities. Large, world-class events are usually held in the King Hussein Bin Talal Conference Centre (www.dscc.jo) on the Dead Sea or the Zara Expo (www.zaraexpo.com) in Amman.
Etiquette
Arriving on time for meetings is important, even if your counterpart may well be late. Never take offence if meetings are cancelled, postponed, interrupted or include other people, this is normal in Jordan.
Handshaking is the customary form of greeting. Personal relationships are central to doing business in Jordan. English is widely spoken in business circles and always make an effort to get to know your counterpart socially before getting down to the deal. You can engage in small talk, but avoid making uninformed remarks about religion and politics. Islam always plays an important role in society and it is essential that Muslim beliefs are respected. For this reason avoid Friday appointments.
The working week is Sunday to Thursday, generally 0900-1800, with a two-hour lunch break from 1330-1530. Some business people may also be available on Saturdays. During the month of Ramadan, there is no lunch break and work will end around 1400 or 1500; this is not a good time to do business, nor are the other Muslim holidays.
Office Hours
Government office hours: Sun-Thurs 0800-1500. During the month of Ramadan, working hours are greatly reduced.
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Information in this section was last updated: Fri Apr 12 2013
