Jordan expands employment programs and investment incentives

The Jordanian government expanded employment and business support programs over the last two years to increase private sector jobs and support small and medium enterprises.

The Ministry of Labour launched a National Employment Program in 2022 to help citizens find work. Between September 2024 and August 2026, this program supported 25,660 Jordanians, including 12,948 women and 12,712 men. The program specifically targeted young people aged 18 to 29, recipients of the National Aid Fund, and people with disabilities.

The government also grew its Production Branches Program to create jobs near citizens' homes, especially in less-developed regions. The number of operational branches grew from 30 in September 2024 to 37 in August 2026. These facilities cover sectors like garment manufacturing and food processing. The ministry currently employs 9,930 workers across these branches and plans to establish more locations in areas like Ajloun and Irbid. To improve the business environment, the government updated investment laws and simplified licensing procedures.

These reforms contributed to a 25.1% increase in foreign direct investment, which reached approximately $2.0248 billion in 2025. The Vocational Training Corporation also built nine new vocational centers and three institutes, while upgrading the infrastructure of 18 institutes and 29 workshops. These efforts aim to prepare workers for the industrial, agricultural, and tourism sectors.