Problems facing owners and managers operating in the qualifying industrial zones in Jordan

Abstract EN

This study reveals the major obstacles that both domestic and foreign companies face while working under the Qualifying Industrial Zones (QIZ) agreement in Jordan, according to the opinions of owners and managers.

To uncover these problems, a questionnaire specially structured for this purpose was administered and distributed to all companies registered and working under the QIZ in three zones (Al Hassan Industrial Estate, Al Karak Industrial Park, and Al Tajamouat Industrial City).

The total number of questionnaires distributed was 78.

The results were based on the 51 returned questionnaires with full information, which constitute around 65% of the number of distributed questionnaires.

Results indicate that respondents have problems in dealing with the Israeli side (either with exporters of raw material and with the procedures of the Israeli government).

Also, respondents have problems related to the political instability in the region and how it will affect their work.

In addition, respondents face problems with recruiting foreign labors, and securing housing and facilities for them.

Finally, they face the problem of getting credit and financing from the local market.

Therefore, peace and stability in the region will minimize the problems that face investors when dealing with the Israeli side.

To minimize the problem associated with recruiting and hiring foreign labor, as well as, having problems with accommodating them at low costs, companies should be able to have training programs for local workers in order to increase their efficiency and productivity in the fields where they are needed.

In addition, the government should issue certain rules and regulations that protect our environment.