Amman: The Cabinet, under the leadership of Prime Minister Jafar Hassan, has sanctioned an increase in the Central Bank of Jordan's (CBJ) capital, raising it from JD 48 million to JD 100 million. The decision reflects the CBJ's expanding asset portfolio, which reached JD 19.3 billion by the end of 2024, with JD 16.8 billion in foreign assets, constituting 86.9 percent of the total assets. This development follows an increase in Jordan's foreign reserves, now standing at $21 billion.
According to Jordan News Agency, the capital increase of JD 52 million will be transferred from the general reserve to the capital account, in line with Article 8 of the Central Bank of Jordan Law No. 14 of 1971 and its amendments. This marks the fourth increase in the CBJ's capital, following previous hikes in 1982, 1993, and 2013.
In addition to the capital hike, the Cabinet approved a 50 percent exemption on licensing and permit fees for public transport operators in 2025. This measure is projected to save the sector approximately JD 1.25 million. The exemption applies to large and medium public transport buses, taxis, and service vehicles regulated by the Land Transport Regulatory Commission, but excludes services under the Greater Amman Municipality and the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority.
Operators who have already paid the fees in 2025 are eligible for refunds. This initiative is aimed at supporting the transport sector in light of economic challenges, geopolitical uncertainties, and fluctuating fuel prices.
Moreover, the government has approved the establishment of a Passenger Transport Support Fund to enhance public transport services. The fund will be utilized to finance sector development, support transport workers, advocate for smart transport systems, and modernize the fleet through grants and loans. It also aims to improve accessibility to public transport, especially for university students, individuals with disabilities, and the elderly, and to promote greater workforce participation, particularly among women.
In a related move, the Cabinet has exempted 230 vehicles and trucks donated by the United Nations Office from customs duties and general and special sales taxes. These vehicles are intended to support Jordan's humanitarian corridor for Gaza and enhance relief efforts. This exemption follows a previous decision to waive fees on 270 vehicles, bringing the total number of exempted trucks and vehicles to 500. The fleet will be registered under the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organization and operated by the Jordan Armed Forces-Arab Army and the Organization.