Aqaba: The Board of Commissioners of the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) has issued a series of decisions aimed at advancing sustainable development, promoting investment, and supporting cultural and sports initiatives in the southern city.
According to Jordan News Agency, among the key resolutions was the board's preliminary approval of an Access and Benefit-Sharing (ABS) agreement with Spanish biopharmaceutical company PharmaMar. The agreement would permit the exploration and collection of marine organisms from Jordanian territorial waters for scientific research and pharmaceutical development.
The approval is contingent upon obtaining all necessary regulatory clearances in line with Regulation No. 20 of 2021, which governs access to environmental genetic resources and the equitable sharing of benefits derived from their use.
In a separate decision targeting institutional and investment growth, the board approved amendments to the temporary vehicle admission regulation for the zone. The revised regulation introduces new incentives for investors and companies operating in or entering the Aqaba zone.
The move is part of ASEZA's broader strategy to position Aqaba as a competitive regional logistics hub and to attract more businesses to register and take advantage of its investment-friendly environment.
Under its entrepreneurship and community development agenda, the board endorsed support for a local cultural association to host a regional art and culture forum in Aqaba, which will include participation from artists representing an Arab country. The initiative is intended to enhance Aqaba's profile as a destination for cultural tourism and to promote innovation in the arts.
The board also approved financial support for a local sports club to take part in the Jordan Football Association's 2025 season, involving teams from various age groups. The decision aligns with ASEZA's goals to encourage youth participation in sports and stimulate sports tourism, contributing to broader commercial activity in the city.