AMMAN: Representatives of the Jordanian Businessmen Association met a senior government delegation from Wales on Monday to explore ways of strengthening trade and investment ties between the countries.
The delegates included the business association’s secretary-general, Abdul Rahim Baqaei, and officials from the Welsh government’s Middle East and North Africa office, including its deputy director, Phil Taylor, and Sarah Taylor, head of its regional office in Dubai.
The discussions focused on ways to boost commercial exchanges, promote private-sector collaborations, and expand opportunities for joint ventures across key industries, the Jordan News Agency reported, and delegates agreed to identify new areas for economic cooperation.
Baqaei said it was important to maintain regular discussions to help identify sectors with high potential and enhance business engagement. He highlighted in particular the role of the Jordanian-Welsh Business Council, established in 2024 in partnership with the Chamber of Commerce of Wales, in efforts to facilitate cooperation between the nations’ business communities.
He also called for greater collaboration with British universities and companies, stressing the role strategic partnerships can play in accelerating Jordan’s economic development and technological progress. He highlighted recent government incentives designed to attract foreign investment, particularly in the services sector, including tax breaks and streamlined business procedures.
Sarah Taylor reaffirmed the commitment of Welsh authorities to the development of strengthened ties with the private sector in Jordan and increased British investment in the country.
She noted the untapped potential of sectors in which Jordan holds a competitive edge, particularly in the services sector, and said the Welsh government’s regional office stands ready to support bilateral engagement.
Her office will assist the work of the Jordanian Businessmen Association, she added, through the facilitation of direct business-to-business meetings and the provision of market intelligence to help Jordanian companies access opportunities in Wales.
