ICT sector full of promise, says JCC representative

AMMAN — The Information, Communication and Technology (ICT) sector is replete with promising opportunities in light of Jordan’s advanced infrastructure and qualified human resources, says Haytham Rawajbeh, ICT sector representative at Jordan Chamber of Commerce (JCC).

While speaking with The Jordan Times on Saturday, Rawajbeh said that Jordan is “betting” on the growth of the ICT sector. 

“The ICT sector is growing annually, which is providing more job opportunities for youth, as well as supporting local economy,” he added. 

Rawajbeh stated that the ICT sector currently employs 25,000 workers, constituting 1.6 per cent of the total workforce in the Kingdom. 

The sector’s contribution to the GDP last year stood at 3 per cent, totalling JD900 million, said Rawajbeh.

“By the year 2033, ICT is estimated to contribute 3.9 per cent to the total GDP,” Rawajbeh added, citing figures from the Economic Modernisation Vision.

Rawajbeh added that during 2021, the ICT sector’s exports amounted to JD200 million, which accounted for 1.9 per cent of total national exports. 

“Jordan has the advanced infrastructure as well as human resources needed to attract and keep international investors operating in the Kingdom,” Rawajbeh stated. 

 International investors are looking to direct their investments to countries that have advanced infrastructure in the fields of digital transformation and service automation, he noted. 

Rawajbeh pointed out that the introduction of 5G services to the local market will reflect positively on reviving our national economy, enhancing the economy’s competitiveness, attracting foreign investments, boosting innovation, as well as increasing employment opportunities.

“Strengthening the cyber security system will also contribute to supporting the business sector,” he added, noting that cyber security plays a vital role in providing a safe and an attractive environment for international and local investments.