Jordan garment industrys

Jordan garment industrys

The garment industry in Jordan plays a vital role in the country’s economy, serving as one of the largest industrial sectors and a significant source of employment. It has grown rapidly since the early 2000s, especially after the implementation of the Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZ) agreement and the Jordan–U.S. Free Trade Agreement (FTA). These arrangements allowed Jordanian garments to enter the U.S. market duty-free, which sparked a surge in foreign investment and factory openings.

Today, Jordan’s garment industry primarily produces ready-made apparel such as trousers, T-shirts, suits, and uniforms for export, with the United States being the main destination. Over 90% of garment exports go to the U.S. market. Major international brands source from Jordan, including Walmart, Target, Hanes, and Gap. The industry employs over 70,000 workers, the majority of whom are women and foreign laborers, primarily from Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, and India, alongside a growing number of Jordanian nationals.

Key garment production centers include industrial zones such as Al-Hassan Industrial Estate in Irbid, Al-Tajamouat Industrial City near Amman, and the Aqaba Special Economic Zone. These areas are home to a range of manufacturers, from large multinational companies to smaller subcontractors. The Jordanian government, in collaboration with the Jordan Garments, Accessories & Textiles Exporters’ Association (JGATE), has focused on improving working conditions, increasing compliance with labor standards, and encouraging local employment.

Sustainability and ethical manufacturing have become increasingly important for the sector, with efforts to adopt eco-friendly practices, improve energy efficiency, and comply with international labor rights standards. Initiatives supported by international donors and NGOs aim to enhance the skills of local workers, especially women, and to strengthen the competitiveness of Jordanian apparel on the global stage.

Despite challenges such as rising production costs and regional instability, the garment industry in Jordan continues to be resilient. It remains a cornerstone of the country’s export sector, contributing over $2 billion annually to national export revenues. With continued support from both the public and private sectors, Jordan’s garment industry is poised for sustainable growth in the years ahead.