Jordan, Ethiopia sign MoU to advance cross-border trade

The Jordan Chamber of Commerce (JCC) and the Ethiopian Chamber of Commerce and Sectoral Associations have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to strengthen trade links, facilitate business activity and improve market access between Jordan and Ethiopia. The agreement could also support Jordan’s trade connections with East Africa and the Horn of Africa through Ethiopia.

The MoU provides for the exchange of trade and market information, business delegations and cooperation on trade and investment opportunities. The two chambers will also establish a Jordanian-Ethiopian Joint Business Council to coordinate activities and follow up on the agreement.

Khalil Haj Tawfiq, President of  Jordan Chamber of Commerce, noted that Ethiopia’s importance to Jordan extends beyond bilateral trade, as it is a major market with a population of more than 130 million and significant economic potential, resources and investment opportunities.

For Middle East supply chains, stronger trade links with Ethiopia could provide Jordanian businesses with greater access to East African markets and create opportunities for movement of goods between the two regions. Ethiopia’s location and its role as a major regional market could support wider trade connections beyond bilateral commerce.

The chambers will also cooperate on training, capacity building and support for small and medium-sized enterprises. Areas identified for potential business cooperation include pharmaceuticals, medical supplies, food products, fertilisers, chemicals, healthcare, renewable energy, information technology and logistics.

The agreement also covers digital transformation and e-commerce, which could help businesses improve cross-border trade processes and access to new markets.