Jordan Country Profile

Snapshot of the Jordan Country Profile


In spite of the absence of any significant natural resources, Jordan has succeeded in attracting foreign investments through economic reforms and has shown solid economic growth rates.

Positive developments in relation to corruption and investment:

  • The government is slowly implementing policies to improve competition and foster transparency.
  • Numerous regulatory procedures have been streamlined, but they remain non-transparent and, along with red tape, continue to pose problems to foreign and local investors.
  • Private property is well-defined and protected through sound legal processes, and there are no serious limitations to the acquisition, benefits and sale or use of property.

Risks of corruption:

  • Government accountability is very weak, which has reportedly led to the abuse of public office and to corruption.
  • Public officials taking bribes are not systematically punished and charges of corruption are quite difficult to prove. Prosecution of high-ranking civil servants remains rare.
  • Companies operating in Jordan have reported hidden costs stemming from bureaucracy, red tape, vaguely formulated regulations and conflicting jurisdictions.