Amman: The Cabinet has announced a suspension of the mandatory retirement rule that required government employees to retire after 30 years of service or 360 social security contributions, with immediate effect. This decision aims to balance public spending with the retention of experienced personnel within government institutions, providing administrations with greater flexibility to manage human resources based on actual needs.
According to Jordan News Agency, the authority to terminate the service of employees who meet the service or contribution thresholds will now revert to the competent bodies, allowing them to make decisions based on institutional requirements. This is part of a broader strategy to ensure that government entities can function effectively without the abrupt loss of seasoned employees.
In addition to this, the Cabinet has approved a financial agreement to resolve outstanding debts owed to King Abdullah University Hospital. Under this agreement, the government will settle the debt by paying 10 million dinars this month, followed by monthly payments of 3 million dinars starting early next year until the total debt of approximately 39.6 million dinars is cleared. This measure is designed to support the hospital's financial health and ensure continuity of services.
The Cabinet emphasized that this decision is part of ongoing efforts to address long-standing financial obligations. Since taking office in September 2024, the government has cleared nearly 600 million dinars of accumulated dues, with the remaining amount to be settled over the next three years.
Further financial measures include the allocation of 10 million dinars to the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research. This funding is intended to cover tuition fees for students who qualify for grants or loans from the Student Support Fund, allowing them to register for the second semester of the 2025/2026 academic year.
Additionally, the Cabinet extended a 75 percent exemption on fees for horticultural agricultural products intended for export until the end of 2026. This initiative aims to support the agricultural sector, safeguard jobs, and boost exports.
The Cabinet has also approved tax settlements between taxpayers and the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority, with the condition that outstanding amounts are fully paid within two months. This measure is intended to stimulate economic activity in the zone and assist businesses in regularizing their tax affairs.
Lastly, ministers have agreed to exempt imported fabric used exclusively for producing reusable cloth bags from customs duties and other taxes. This decision is part of efforts to promote environmentally friendly alternatives and expand employment opportunities in the governorates.