Irbid: A ministerial team on Wednesday convened with investors and industrial sector representatives at the Al Hassan Industrial Estate to address the issue of surplus textile and fabric waste generated by local factories. The meeting culminated in an agreement to conduct an economic feasibility study within two weeks for establishing a recycling plant dedicated to handling these scraps.
According to Jordan News Agency, the ministerial team consisted of Minister of Local Administration Walid Masri, Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Yarub Qudah, Minister of Environment Ayman Suleiman, and Secretary General of the Ministry of Investment Zahir Qatarneh. Also present were Director-General of the Jordan Customs Department Major General Ahmad Al-Akalik, Acting Irbid Governor Raed Al Jaafreh, and other local officials and industrialists.
Minister Masri emphasized that dumping factory waste at the Al-Akaider landfill is now prohibited due to its conversion into an environmental site. He announced an eight-month grace period for the industrial sector to establish a recycling plant, highlighting recycling as the sole sustainable solution to alleviate the environmental burden of industrial waste.
Minister Qudah underscored the necessity of a scientific and technical resolution that benefits the industrial sector and acts as an economic driver. He proposed that the project begin as a private investment, later transitioning into a public-private partnership to meet the needs of Al-Hassan Industrial Estate, generate employment, and effectively manage fabric waste.
Minister Suleiman reiterated the government's commitment to supporting investment and industrial sectors that offer employment to thousands of Jordanians. The meeting aimed to align factory waste recycling efforts with private investment interests and government policies, promoting a green economy through internationally standardized recycling mechanisms.
Secretary General Qatarneh affirmed the ministry's commitment to facilitating the textile waste recycling project in collaboration with relevant authorities. He noted that the investment environment law provides incentives and exemptions for recycling projects, enhancing sustainability and competitiveness in the garments sector.
Major General Al-Akalik highlighted that factory waste recycled in specialized facilities is exempt from customs tariffs, per a Cabinet decision. He warned that the World Customs Organization might enforce stricter green standards, making recycling essential for compliance and cost reduction.
Director General of JIEC, Uday Obeidat, expressed readiness to collaborate on addressing fabric waste issues in Al-Hassan Industrial City, which hosts 132 industrial companies with significant investments and employment contributions. He estimated that daily textile scrap output ranges from 60 to 70 tonnes, necessitating immediate waste management.
Industry leaders, including President of the Irbid Chamber of Industry Hani Abu Hassan, praised the government's decision to grant a grace period for scrap disposal at Ministry of Local Administration landfills. They emphasized that the recycling plant would prevent environmental disasters and create jobs, benefiting the local community.
During a field tour, the ministerial team visited Al-Durra International factories, where they were briefed on the company's contribution to the national economy through food exports and global market expansion, enhancing the reputation of Jordanian industries for quality and competitiveness.