Amman: Trade documentation issued by Amman commerce chamber dropped 4.6 percent in value last year despite a rise in export volumes, highlighting shifting trade patterns in the region.

According to Jordan News Agency, the Amman Chamber of Commerce issued JD1.37 billion ($1.92 billion) worth of certificates of origin in 2023, down from JD1.43 billion in 2022, while the number of certificates rose 7.5 percent to 38,320, official data shows.

Iraq remained the dominant export destination, with shipments valued at JD691 million ($973 million), followed by Saudi Arabia at JD113 million and Egypt at JD105 million. The UAE and Switzerland rounded out the top five markets.

"The rise in certificate numbers despite lower values reflects changing trade dynamics and possibly lower unit prices," said [Chamber official name, if available], noting that re-exports made up half the total at JD687 million.

Industrial exports accounted for JD291 million, while agricultural shipments reached JD188 million. Arab-origin goods totaled JD91 million of certified exports.

Saudi Arabia led in documentation volume with 11,245 certificates issued, followed by the UAE with 4,111 and Iraq with 2,795, highlighting the kingdom's strong regional trade ties.