Amman, Jordan – Jordanian authorities have announced a halt to the recruitment of foreign workers in a large number of economic sectors. This move aims to reorganize the local labor market and enhance employment opportunities for Jordanian citizens. It is part of a new government policy to address unemployment challenges and regulate the labor market.
According to official sources, the decision encompasses most sectors that were heavily reliant on foreign labor. However, certain professions suffering from a clear shortage of qualified local workers are exempt. These will be addressed according to specific regulations and conditions.
The relevant authorities confirmed that this move comes within the framework of a comprehensive review of employment policies in the Kingdom. This aims to achieve a balance between the labor market’s needs and the priority of providing job opportunities for Jordanians. The importance of this shift is particularly evident in light of economic pressures and high unemployment rates.
Sources indicated that the government is simultaneously working to enhance vocational training and qualification programs for Jordanian youth. This aims to enable them to fill jobs that were previously filled by foreign workers. The sources added that the private sector is also being encouraged to employ local talent.
Conversely, the decision sparked widespread reactions among business owners. Some expressed concerns about its impact on operations in certain sectors heavily reliant on expatriate labor. They called for flexibility in implementing the decision to ensure uninterrupted production.
The Jordanian government affirms that the new measures will be implemented gradually and that their effects on the economy and labor market will be continuously monitored. The government emphasizes that its primary objective is to achieve economic and social balance that maintains labor market stability. Furthermore, it seeks to enhance employment opportunities for Jordanian citizens.
