jordan pulse -

The European Bank for Reconstruction and Development (EBRD) has invested more than €500 million in Jordan between 2020 and 2024, according to its draft country strategy for 2025-2030.

The bank noted that these investments were part of 49 projects in Jordan, one of the first countries where it operates in the southern and eastern Mediterranean region. The investments have supported the country’s transition to a sustainable market economy, with Jordan emerging as a regional leader in renewable energy and stability.

According to the EBRD, these investments have helped Jordan navigate major economic and social challenges, including the Syrian refugee crisis, the COVID-19 pandemic, and energy shortages.

Despite these achievements, Jordan continues to face significant hurdles, including high unemployment, low productivity, regional instability, and economic inclusion gaps, particularly affecting women and youth.

To address these challenges, the government has launched initiatives such as the Economic Modernization Vision Priorities Plan in 2022 and the Public Sector Modernization Roadmap in 2023. Additionally, the Central Bank of Jordan introduced the Green Inclusion Strategy in 2023 to boost green investments.

Since beginning operations in Jordan in 2012, the EBRD has invested over €2.3 billion across more than 70 projects. The bank’s current investment portfolio in Jordan stands at approximately €1.047 billion, with €768 million in operating assets—60% of which are in the private sector.

The bank highlighted key lessons from its experience in Jordan, emphasizing the need for stronger technical cooperation, capacity building, and early engagement in procurement to ensure timely project delivery. It also underscored the importance of public-private partnerships, citing major projects such as the Aqaba-Amman desalination and water transport initiative.

Looking ahead to 2030, the EBRD aims to enhance private sector competitiveness, expand financing options, improve the business environment, and attract more local and foreign investment. It also seeks to scale up renewable energy use, cut carbon emissions, strengthen energy resilience, and improve water sector management.

The strategy further prioritizes upgrading municipal infrastructure and services, enhancing workforce skills, and increasing women's participation in the economy.