Carbon Emissions: Progress in Jordan under the Economic Modernization Vision

Carbon emissions result from the chemical reactions that occur when burning fossil fuel sources to generate energy. This conversion process transforms energy into different forms, leading to the release of various byproducts. Emissions encompass not only carbon oxides but also other compounds produced by industrial activities, such as nitrogen oxides and sulfur compounds. These byproducts are typically waste and do not enter the production cycle as sellable products. The measurement of emissions often considers nitrogen oxides and sulfur compounds, typically expressed in tons of carbon emissions. Several factors influence the rate of carbon emissions, including the nature of the production line, the design of production machines, and the specifications related to engineering. The conversion efficiency of both electrical and mechanical machines plays a key role. Additionally, the occupancy rate for machine load is determined by various metrics such as production quantities, operating hours, and the practices employed by machine operators. Different forms of energy consumption, including electrical energy, heat, and transportation of the final product, also have established standards, all of which are important for effective energy management systems. A carbon tax is imposed on the carbon content of fuel and serves as a form of carbon pricing applicable to all hydrocarbon fuels—coal, petroleum, and natural gas—that produce carbon dioxide and other gases when burned. In contrast, non-combustion energy sources, such as wind, solar, geothermal, hydropower, and nuclear energy, do not produce carbon dioxide from hydrocarbons. Implementing a carbon tax offers both social and economic benefits. It generates revenue without dramatically impacting the economy, while concurrently advancing climate change policy goals. The primary aim of a carbon tax is to mitigate harmful levels of carbon dioxide emissions, thereby slowing climate change and its detrimental effects on the environment and human health. Recently, His Majesty King Abdullah II and European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen witnessed the signing of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership Agreement between the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan and the European Union in Brussels. This agreement aims to stimulate private sector investments and support numerous sectors, including water, energy, technology, and entrepreneurship. To further clarify some principles of understanding regarding the agreement, the National Energy Efficiency Plan for the Industrial Sector has been introduced for the years 2023 and 2024. Following a successful journey led by the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources, particularly through the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Support Fund, Jordan has emerged as a leader in the region and the Arab world by achieving high rates of success in integrating alternative energy sources. Through the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund, numerous activities and programs have been implemented to promote the importance of energy auditing and its applications. One key initiative is the "Support for Energy Efficiency Applications in the Industrial Sector" program, conducted in collaboration with the Jordan Chamber of Industry.

The focus is heavily placed on improving and increasing energy efficiency at the national level, particularly in the industrial sector. Implementing a comprehensive energy efficiency program will not only reduce direct energy costs but will also offer significant benefits in terms of operating and maintenance costs as well as overall productivity. Furthermore, energy efficiency programs play a crucial role in reducing greenhouse gas emissions, thereby mitigating the effects of climate change. According to Minister Kharabsheh, the Ministry has released the Energy Sector Strategy for the years 2020-2030, which aims to enhance energy efficiency and optimize its use by 9% compared to 2018 levels. By reviewing this strategy, the Ministry intends to adopt various procedures, programs, and projects that will increase this percentage and promote the widespread adoption of energy efficiency practices. The Ministry is also issuing the third national plan for energy efficiency, building on the foundations established in the first and second national plans. This third plan aims to initiate a national program that reduces energy costs across economic sectors and boosts their competitiveness. This will be achieved by exploring all available opportunities to save energy consumption and maximize its use across all sectors while learning from the experiences of previous national plans and collaborating with global best practices and partners. Minister Kharabsheh noted that the Ministry has implemented numerous activities and programs in recent years through the Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency Fund. These efforts aim to spread the culture of energy auditing and emphasize the importance of implementing audit results. One notable program is "Supporting Energy Efficiency Applications in the Industrial Sector," which is being executed in cooperation with the Jordan Chamber of Industry. He also mentioned that the Fund is currently working to create a conducive environment for establishing energy service companies (ESCOs). The presence of such companies will significantly promote the implementation of energy efficiency measures in both the industrial and other sectors. Minister Al-Kharabsheh pointed out that, over the past few years, the Ministry has adopted several policies and projects that support the industrial sector and aim to lower production costs. A notable initiative is allowing the industrial sector to establish a solar energy generation project with a capacity of 100 megawatts. This initiative is supported by innovative scientific plans and research from institutions working to establish a national system for managing extensive data from the industrial sector, including energy loads in various forms. The digitization of the energy sector in Jordan involves modern digital tools for energy management at the National Electricity Company. This includes insights into smart grid systems, the integration of communications, and strategies to prevent power outages in electrical networks. Attention is given to studying reliable energy flow and conducting energy system analysis. The National Electricity Company has organized electrical parameters and utilized protection equipment in its networks to create safeguards against faults, employing the latest simulation programs to design or simulate components of national electrical networks. The #SMart_GRid network was developed and implemented by the Department of Electrical Engineering at Mutah University, with contributions from Professor Dr. Abdullah Al-Adinat and Dr. Khaled Al-Awasa. Key components highlighted include smart meters, sensors, and energy data management. Additionally, the energy information management system for the national project, supervised by the Director of the Energy and Minerals Regulatory Commission, encompasses all data on loads and machines that consume energy in industrial facilities. This system will serve as a main pillar in energy efficiency projects in industrial facilities aimed at connecting renewable energy systems. According to Article No. 7 on Technical Determinants for Connecting Large Renewable Energy Systems: 1. When connecting any renewable energy source systems to the transmission network for supplying a consumer/user, the generating capacity must not exceed 10% of the confirmed calculated capacity of the transmission line, provided this option is available. 2. Similarly, when connecting renewable energy systems to the transmission network for a consumer/user, the generating capacity must not surpass 20% of the calculated capacity of the transformer station linked to the consumption site of the generated electrical energy, also contingent on the availability of this option.

This figure represents the efforts of the National Electricity Company to support the industrial sector, reduce energy consumption, and utilize clean energy sources, all while ensuring a fixed capital payback period of just a few years. Operating costs, which include periodic maintenance, cleaning, and replacing solar panels, are estimated at 0.021 dinars per kilowatt. This is significantly lower than the costs associated with traditional fuel sources, which can be three times higher. This marks a significant advancement for a country with limited resources and relatively high energy costs. Additionally, a time-related tariff law was implemented to regulate energy consumption during peak hours, as well as during periods of moderate brightness and at night. With the increasing reliability of electric vehicles, regulating energy consumption has become essential. Carbon Adjustment Mechanism at the Borders In June 2021, the European Union introduced the “Fit for 55” package, which aims to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030. This package includes a carbon adjustment mechanism at the borders, which will impose a tax on imports that have a high carbon footprint. Fit for 55 is a comprehensive package designed to achieve a significant reduction in greenhouse gas emissions across the European Union by 2030, forming part of the EU’s strategy for the European Green Deal, initially presented in December 2019. Proposed in July 2021 by the European Commission and approved in 2023, the measures under this package include enhanced support for clean transportation and renewable energy, as well as the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism, which targets high-carbon imports from countries that do not take adequate measures to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, it seeks to extend the EU’s emissions trading system to encompass transport and heating sectors. Compared to the International Energy Agency's net zero scenario, this plan includes more initiatives to ensure that energy remains affordable. The European Green Deal, approved in 2020, comprises a set of policy initiatives aimed at making the EU climate neutral by 2050. The plan involves reassessing existing laws based on their climate benefits and introducing new legislation addressing the circular economy, building renovation, biodiversity, agriculture, and innovation. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, has referred to the European Green Deal as Europe’s "moonshot moment." On December 13, 2019, the European Council agreed to proceed with the plan, allowing for an exit option for Poland. On January 15, 2020, the European Parliament also expressed support for the deal, pushing for higher ambitions. A year later, the European Climate Act was enacted, mandating that greenhouse gas emissions be reduced by 55% by 2030 compared to 1990 levels. The Fit for 55 package details the extensive legislative framework that the EU will use to accomplish this target. The European Climate Pact is another initiative by the European Commission aimed at supporting the implementation of the European Green Deal. This initiative encourages citizens, communities, and organizations across Europe to engage in climate and environmental actions. By participating in the Pact, stakeholders commit to taking measurable and trackable actions for climate and environmental improvements. It is also a platform for organizations to share their journey towards sustainability and collaborate towards shared goals. The overarching aim of the European Green Deal is for the EU to become the world’s first “climate-neutral bloc” by 2050. The deal has targets spanning various sectors, including construction, biodiversity, energy, transport, and food. The plan includes the possibility of carbon tariffs for countries that do not reduce their greenhouse gas emissions at the same pace. The mechanism facilitating this is the Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM). Moreover, it includes: - A Circular Economy Action Plan: The European Commission has released several publications on circular economy practices, requiring member states to adopt activities geared toward transforming their economies into circular ones. Circular economy practices have already become integral to the European Green Deal and the von der Leyen Commission’s COVID-19 Recovery Plan, and they were also a key focus of the Juncker Commission’s ambition for a sustainable, low-carbon, resource-efficient, and competitive economy. - A farm-to-table strategy that emphasizes performance over mere compliance, rewarding farmers for managing and storing soil carbon, improving nutrient management, and reducing emissions, among other practices.

Review of Key EU Strategies for Climate Action 1. Energy Tax Directive Review: This review focuses on fossil fuel subsidies and tax breaks in sectors such as aviation and shipping. 2. Sustainable and Smart Mobility Strategy: This initiative aims to make transportation more sustainable and interconnected. 3. EU Forest Strategy: The main objectives of this strategy include effective afforestation and the conservation and restoration of forests across Europe. 4. Horizon Europe: This program plays a crucial role in leveraging national public and private investments. It collaborates with industry and Member States to support research and innovation in transport technologies. Key areas of focus include batteries, clean hydrogen, low-carbon steelmaking, and circular sectors based on biomaterials and the built environment. 5. InvestEU: The European Union plans to finance the policies outlined in the Green Deal through an investment plan called InvestEU, which projects investments of at least €1 trillion. To meet the targets set in the Green Deal, approximately €260 billion in annual investment will be needed by 2030. 6. Building Renovation Rates: Before 1970, almost half of all residential buildings in Europe were constructed without considering modern energy standards. At the current renovation rate of about 1%, it could take more than a century to achieve a stock of highly energy-efficient, carbon-neutral buildings. One of the primary goals of the European Green Deal is to double or even triple this renovation rate. Investment is also necessary for the development of new, efficient, environmentally-friendly structures. 7. Fit for 55 Legislation Package: Published in July 2021, this package includes significant guidelines for the automotive industry, mandating that all new cars sold in the EU must be zero-emission vehicles by 2035. 8. Emissions Reduction Goals: Since 1990, EU emissions have already decreased by 25% as of 2019. To align with the Paris Agreement, a target of a 55% reduction from 1990 levels by 2030 has been set, translating to a 40% reduction from the 2019 figures. The UNEP Emissions Gap Report 2020 indicates that to meet the 1.5°C temperature increase target, global emissions must be reduced by 57% from 2019 levels by 2030. This target exceeds the European Green Deal’s 40% goal. 9. Clean Energy Transition: Achieving climate neutrality by 2050 is a central goal of the European Green Deal. This includes decarbonizing the energy system to reach net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050. The relevant Energy Directive will be reviewed and amended as needed, and existing regulations will also undergo scrutiny. In 2023, Member States will update their national climate and energy plans to align with the EU’s 2030 climate targets. Key principles include: - Prioritizing energy efficiency - Developing a renewable-based energy sector - Ensuring affordable energy supplies in the EU - Achieving a fully integrated and interconnected EU digital energy market 10. Energy System Integration: In 2020, the European Commission launched its strategy for a greener and cleaner energy future, which serves as a framework for the energy transition. This includes measures for a more circular energy system, increased direct electrification, and the development of clean fuels like hydrogen. The European Clean Hydrogen Alliance has also been established, highlighting hydrogen's pivotal role in this transition. 11. Investment in Green Technology: By 2023, green technology is expected to be one of the few sectors within the EU where venture capital investment matches that of the U.S. This shift reflects the EU’s ambitious climate targets and government support. The European Green Deal and associated policies have significantly boosted investments in green technology, particularly in energy storage, circular economy initiatives, and agritech. This focus has enabled the EU to close the investment gap with the U.S. in strategic sectors. 12. Sustainable Industry Initiatives: A key area for achieving the EU’s climate goals involves establishing circular industrial economy policies. In March 2020, the EU introduced its industrial strategy aimed at empowering citizens, revitalizing regions, and gaining access to advanced technologies. Major objectives include promoting modern industrial practices and fostering markets for climate-neutral, circular economy goods, as well as decarbonizing and modernizing energy-intensive industries like steel and cement.

A “sustainable products” policy is expected to be introduced, focusing on reducing material waste. This initiative aims to ensure that products are reused and promotes recycling. The specific materials targeted include textiles, construction materials, vehicles, batteries, electronics, and plastics. The EU believes it should stop exporting its waste outside its borders and plans to review the rules regarding waste shipments and illegal exports. Additionally, the EU Commission will propose a review of the rules governing end-of-life vehicles to encourage the adoption of more circular business models. The European Commission estimates that the green investment drive in Europe will incur an additional cost of €350 billion per year until 2030. Abu Dhabi, April 5, 2020 (WAM) - The Abu Dhabi Future Energy Company (Masdar) hosted the World Future Energy Summit this month to build on the progress made at COP28, which saw the signing of the historic “UAE Climate Agreement.” The World Future Energy Summit was a climate and environment conference focused on discussing the outcomes of COP28, with particular attention to the UAE’s historic agreement and its proposals spanning all sectors of the economy. The summit took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre from April 16 to 18, with more than 350 thought leaders and industry experts in attendance to explore ways for companies and communities to achieve their carbon neutrality goals. In the wake of the success of COP28 and the historic UAE agreement, the summit aimed to develop new concepts and mechanisms to confront climate change, prioritizing innovative solutions provided by various stakeholders. Participating parties committed to tripling the production capacity of renewable energy sources and doubling the rate of energy efficiency by 2030. Additionally, companies in the oil sector pledged to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050, focusing on promoting innovations that provide alternative fuel sources, such as green hydrogen. The outcomes of COP28 extend beyond the energy sector to include the industrial, transportation, and supply chain sectors. The conference also witnessed the launch of the Industrial Transition Accelerator to expand the scope of carbon-reduction technologies and the adoption of the UAE Declaration on Resilient Food Systems, Sustainable Agriculture, and Climate Action. Lynn Al Sibai, Chair of the World Future Energy Summit, stated, “COP28 provided a roadmap for the future of climate action, involving the public and private sectors, which requires unifying efforts and collaborating to achieve the climate goals set by the conference.”

She stated, “At the World Future Energy Summit, we understand that this is a multi-faceted challenge that necessitates strong coordination between various sectors. Therefore, we initiated the Climate and Environment Conference to explore strategies for achieving these goals through a comprehensive approach.”

The Climate and Environment Conference featured keynote speeches, panel discussions, fireside chats, and case studies. Experts discussed strategies to accelerate climate goals across various sectors, including tourism, industry, aviation, investment, agriculture, utilities, energy, construction, transportation, and healthcare. Melissa Tan, CEO of Wah & Hua and representative of the Singapore Chapter as well as the Asia-Pacific Regional Chapter of the International Solid Waste Association, addressed lessons learned from COP28 and ways to implement its outcomes. She emphasized the need to develop actionable pathways to put these proposals into practice. Additionally, a fireside chat between representatives from Arabian Gulf Steel Industries and Talabat Zero Carbon Ventures focused on driving innovation in carbon reduction. Anna Griffin, Chief People Officer at Arabian Gulf Steel Industries, explained that this discussion aims to provide insights into the innovative technologies and mechanisms required to lower carbon dioxide levels and reduce emissions. “The session will concentrate on examining relevant models that can create a tangible, positive impact in the near term. It will highlight key research and development efforts, expansion opportunities, and the potential positive effects of decarbonization,” she added. On the sidelines of the conference, a case study was presented on the role of solar energy in enhancing healthcare access in areas of Africa that lack electricity. This was part of the Summit’s comprehensive knowledge exchange program, which included dialogue sessions aimed at bridging the skills gap for climate workers. During the current Summit session, a new one-day conference was launched to explore mechanisms for limiting global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius, scheduled for April 16. This conference allowed participating ministers to underscore the importance of effective policy frameworks, a just transition in energy, technological innovation, and climate action in achieving carbon neutrality goals. It also provided a platform for prominent CEOs from various sectors to share valuable insights on carbon reduction strategies. At the Industry Partnership Office of the Crown Prince University, the Energy Department team successfully organized a focus group with key stakeholders from various sectors related to the energy field in Jordan. The goal of this event was to review the curriculum of the Energy Engineering Program, reflecting the university's commitment to keeping its programs aligned with industry developments and ensuring that graduates possess the necessary skills for the labor market. Previous achievements and commitments by the Energy Efficiency and Renewable Energy Fund have attracted global partnerships, including significant support from the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) through the ESSA program. This funding has facilitated the development of expertise in energy audit studies and job opportunities. Energy audit study grants have been signed with seven factories in the first phase and 22 factories in the second phase, with grants ranging from 3,000 to 10,000 Jordanian dinars for industrial facilities, depending on their size, energy consumption rates, and number of production lines. These audits target industrial facilities that account for 25% of the total electricity consumption generated nationwide.

Financial guarantees amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars were provided by the fund to support factories in obtaining loans from banks. These loans will be used to implement energy auditing projects, distribute necessary infrastructure, and acquire engineering equipment for production lines. Additionally, the fund was a pioneer in supporting the tourism sector through energy efficiency projects for hotels, which significantly reduced energy consumption. As part of the energy efficiency program for the industrial sector, implemented in collaboration with universities and factories, I had the opportunity to train at one of the most important industrial facilities in the country, the Manaseer Industrial Complex. One notable achievement is the participation of the Arab Potash Company at the Jordan Economic Forum, which was themed "Towards a Sustainable Economy." Dr. Maan Al-Nsour, CEO of the Arab Potash Company, emphasized the importance of implementing the vision of economic modernization across all sectors, particularly the industrial sector, as essential for achieving sustainable economic growth. During a dialogue session entitled "Towards a Sustainable Economy: How Industrial Development and Strategic Investments Contribute to Enhancing Growth in Jordan," Dr. Al-Nsour highlighted the transformations within Arab Potash and shared insights into the company's operational and financial performance as a model to support sustainable growth efforts. The forum, chaired by Mazen Al-Hamoud, included many members of the Forum's Board of Directors, the General Assembly, and individuals interested in economic and financial affairs. Al-Hamoud welcomed Dr. Al-Nsour, emphasizing the forum's role as a platform for responsible and constructive discussions between experts and decision-makers on national economic and administrative issues. Al-Hamoud explained that the forum aims to facilitate in-depth discussions on fundamental economic issues, moving beyond individual companies or sectors to address broader topics that affect the business environment, investment, and development. The session focused not only on the experience of the Arab Potash Company but also on analyzing economic and administrative models, the impact of privatization, and strategies to enhance sustainable growth in Jordan. He noted that the Arab Potash Company is one of the leading companies in Jordan's industrial and mining sector, known for its high value and competitiveness on a global scale. The company has achieved remarkable success and strengthened its position despite global price fluctuations. This success reflects the ability of the Jordanian economy to withstand and evolve amidst challenges, embodying the royal vision for achieving excellence. Al-Hamoud also highlighted the significant visits the company has received from His Majesty King Abdullah II, underscoring its crucial role in productivity, exports, and employment, along with its economic and financial contributions and strong commitment to social responsibility, which enhances its reputation as a leading national company supporting economic growth in the Kingdom. In his address, Dr. Al-Nsour discussed the national economy's current reality, outlining challenges and opportunities in achieving sustainable growth. He reviewed the performance of the Jordanian economy over recent years, highlighted the vision for economic modernization, and discussed ongoing and future plans. Dr. Al-Nsour stressed that Jordan is making rapid strides towards achieving sustainable development by implementing the economic modernization vision. This vision focuses on strengthening productive sectors, stimulating investment, improving the business environment, and investing in education and innovation.

Dr. Ensour praised the government's efforts to achieve the strategic objectives of the Economic Modernization Vision, which aims to enhance the competitiveness of the national economy and stimulate exports, thereby strengthening Jordan's economic position. Dr. Ensour explained that ongoing economic reforms are contributing to the improvement of the business environment and attracting foreign investments. He noted that expanding corporate governance practices and adopting sound financial and economic policies are crucial for achieving sustainable growth. Additionally, he emphasized the need to diversify productive sectors and improve regional integration to enhance the Jordanian economy's capacity to tackle global challenges. He highlighted that capitalizing on emerging opportunities in modern technology, advanced industries, and artificial intelligence will significantly contribute to improving economic performance. Regarding key growth drivers for implementing the Economic Modernization Vision and achieving economic and social goals, Dr. Ensour explained that these drivers focus on developing human capital by preparing generations capable of meeting future labor market demands. This, in turn, will stimulate economic growth, improve quality of life, and achieve excellence in productive sectors, with the aim of enhancing exports both regionally and globally. Additionally, the vision seeks to position Jordan as an attractive investment destination and transform it into an effective industrial center by increasing exports of high-value products and encouraging both local and foreign investments through the creation of an appealing investment environment. Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the Economic Modernization Vision, aiming to manage natural resources efficiently and achieve sustainable economic growth. In discussing the implementation of the Economic Modernization Vision in Jordan, Dr. Ensour stated that achieving the vision's goals would help reduce unemployment rates, develop the investment environment through new laws providing incentives for foreign and local companies, expand technological use, improve public debt management, and support Jordanian exports to markets such as the Gulf States and Africa. He also emphasized the need to enhance the quality of Jordanian products and broaden export opportunities. Dr. Al-Nsour discussed the Corporate Governance Index for Jordanian companies published in the International Journal of Disclosure and Governance, explaining that the Jordanian Governance Index reflects the extent of companies' commitment to best practices and enhances investor confidence by measuring transparency and financial disclosure. He stressed that improved governance enhances the business environment and contributes to attracting foreign investments, thereby bolstering the potential for achieving sustainable economic growth. Dr. Al-Nsour highlighted the importance of economic and structural reforms that the government is undertaking in the public finance sector to enhance local revenues, increase government spending efficiency, and improve the business environment to attract foreign investments. He also underscored the need to strengthen the role of the private sector to stabilize the Jordanian economy and enhance its resilience against sudden changes. Notably, Dr. Al-Nsour addressed a critical element of sustainable development: investment in education. He emphasized the necessity of improving educational quality, expanding vocational education and training, and reducing the brain drain. Regarding future strategies, Dr. Al-Nsour pointed out the importance of establishing foundations for sustainable growth, which include improving the business and investment environment, diversifying the economy, enhancing productive sectors, developing the tax and financial system, promoting the use of renewable energy and sustainability, advancing human capital and the labor market, and improving infrastructure, transportation, regional integration, and trade exchange. Following this, Dr. Al-Nsour reviewed the significant transformations experienced by the Arab Potash Company since its privatization in 2003, noting the role of the Jordanian National Administration in the company's financial and operational performance since 2019. He shared that the market value of the Arab Potash Company rose from approximately 417 million dinars in 2003 to 1.34 billion dinars in 2018, and by 2025, the company's market value is projected to reach an advanced level of 2.9 billion dinars. Dr. Al-Nsour also pointed out that in 2019, the Chinese SDIC Group acquired the Canadian company PCS’s stake in the Arab Potash Company as a strategic partner. This deal included appointing a Jordanian national executive management team, which developed plans aimed at increasing production rates and thereby consolidating the company's global competitiveness.

Dr. Al-Nsour emphasized the significant improvement in the Arab Potash Company's performance, highlighting that the average annual net profits rose to approximately 262 million dinars during the period from 2019 to 2024. This marks an increase of 117% compared to the average net profits achieved before this period. He noted that the company's payments to the Jordanian government also saw a substantial increase after the Jordanian administration took charge. From 2019 to 2024, the average payments amounted to about 185 million dinars, compared to an average of 75 million dinars before 2019. Additionally, capital expenditures increased by an average of 200% relative to the prior period, with the company spending an average of approximately 150 million dinars annually from 2019 to 2023. The total capital investment for this same period reached 851 million dinars. Dr. Al-Nsour mentioned that the Arab Potash Company completed major projects at the end of last year, totaling an investment value of 319 million dinars. Furthermore, he stated that the company has successfully strengthened its global presence through branches and representative offices worldwide. It has entered new markets, including Brazil, and has expanded its share in key markets like Europe. Since 2019, the company has produced six new varieties of potash, bringing its total to nine varieties compared to just three produced before 2019. The Arab Potash Company has also attracted new investments to Jordan, such as the Jordan Bromine Company's expansion project in collaboration with the American company Albemarle, which has a total cost of 577 million dinars. Additionally, they are exploring the establishment of a specialized fertilizer production plant with a leading European company, with an expected investment of 36 million dinars. Looking ahead, Dr. Al-Nsour outlined several prominent future projects the Arab Potash Company is studying and planning. The Southern Expansion Project aims to increase potash production to over 3.5 million tons annually. The company also plans, in partnership with the Jordan Phosphate Mines Company, to exploit natural fertilizer resources (potash and phosphate) to produce high-value-added fertilizer products, aligning with the Kingdom's economic modernization vision. The two companies are considering enhancing industrial integration between potash and phosphate by exploring promising investment opportunities in manufacturing and specialized industries, focusing on utilizing Jordan’s natural resources to stimulate economic growth and promote sustainable development. Dr. Al-Nsour further remarked that Arab Potash is investigating projects related to energy and water sustainability, alongside renewable energy initiatives, including the use of electric trucks to transport potash from Ghor Al-Safi to Aqaba. The session included a productive dialogue regarding the opportunities and challenges facing the Jordanian economy. Attendees discussed future strategies for developing productive sectors, particularly in the fertilizer and chemical industries, enhancing the investment environment, and achieving better integration between economic and administrative policies.

After the session, the Economic Forum reaffirmed its commitment to continue hosting influential figures and economic experts. This initiative aims to enrich public debate and support informed decision-making based on knowledge and specialized analysis, ultimately contributing to sustainable economic development in the Kingdom. On January 29, 2025, Jordan commenced exporting liquefied petroleum gas to Syria at a rate of 500 tons per day. The CEO of the Jordan Petroleum Refinery Company, Hassan Al-Hayari, announced that Jordan began these exports 10 days ago, maintaining a rate of 500 tons daily. This announcement was made during a meeting held earlier today, which included the Chairman of the Energy and Mineral Resources Committee in the House of Representatives, Representative Haitham Ziyadin, alongside Hassan Al-Hayari and several other representatives. The focus of the meeting was to discuss developments in the energy sector and regional cooperation in this field.