Amman: Sectoral committees of the Jordanian-Saudi Joint Business Council proposed a 12-month trade facilitation program Monday to accelerate the movement of goods, reduce trade costs, and streamline procedures between the two countries.
According to Jordan News Agency, the proposed program includes establishing a fast-track trade route, developing risk-management procedures, and setting performance indicators to measure improvements in the time and cost of trade. These recommendations were issued at the conclusion of the committees' meetings in Amman.
The committees also emphasized the need for harmonizing technical standards and conformity requirements between Jordan and Saudi Arabia. They recommended expanding electronic connectivity and exchanging data and certificates between relevant authorities to minimize duplicate testing, costs, and processing time.
In the realm of logistics and transport, the committees advised enhancing the efficiency of border crossings, ports, and logistics services, addressing challenges faced by trucks and goods, and strengthening supply-chain continuity in the face of regional economic and geopolitical challenges.
Additionally, they proposed the activation of the council's Joint Coordination Office to monitor the implementation of recommendations, outlining clear responsibilities, timelines, and performance indicators. The committees also called for streamlining procedures for investors and businesspeople, including the broader use of electronic visas.
Further recommendations included enhancing industrial, agricultural, pharmaceutical, health, tourism, and investment cooperation. This includes developing joint projects, expanding trade in agricultural and livestock products, and promoting investment opportunities in priority sectors.
The committees underscored that the next phase should focus on translating recommendations into tangible projects and measurable outcomes, while maintaining close coordination between the private sectors and relevant authorities in both countries.