Jordan’s ICT Sector

Information Technology Association (int@j)

Agenda

Background & overview

Accomplishments

Challenges & pending issues

Background & Overview

Jordan’s Vision

Jordan shall become a regional ICT center and

internationally recognized exporter of ICT products

and services, exploiting its

core human capital

advantages

The Strategy - REACH

A strategy, to develop a vibrant export-oriented

ICT sector and maximize the sector’s ability to

compete in the global economy

Compares Jordan's strengths and weaknesses

vis-à-vis other relevant markets

Background

Started back in 1999

Driven by His Majesty’s vision

Private sector led with government support

A 5 year plan for an export-based industry

Harnesses our human resources

Objectives

Increase export

Create jobs

Attract FDIs

Strategic Pillars

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Pro

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Ca

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Hu

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Accomplishments

Previous Efforts

1999 Infrastructure Strengthening

2000 Regulatory Framework

2002 Human Resources Development

2003 Driven by HR & Financial Resources

Economic Impact

99/00 2001 2002 2003

Local market $60m $130m $190m $300m

Exports $10m $40m $40m $70m

Employment 1,250 6,000 8,000 9,000

FDI - $60m $68m $75m

Accomplishments

15+ laws amended, substantial legal reform

ICT development considered national priority

Infrastructure significantly enhanced

ICT sector well formed

Initiatives to support knowledge-based economy

International partnerships formed

Challenges

Regulatory Framework

Reduce indirect tax burden on all ICT products

Enforce intellectual property rights

Adopt more competitive taxation policies

Implement electronic commerce legislation

Update and expand legislation on cyber crime

Adopt electronic procurement regulations

Enabling Environment

Increase PC penetration rate

Provide Internet access to all Jordanians

Reduce cost of broad-band connectivity

Advancement Programs

Consolidation of ICT companies

Implement SW quality certification programs

Identify sector core competencies

Develop national marketing strategy for sector

Promote ICT incubators

Promote R&D through creating special fund

Lobby for Offsets program

Capital & Finance

Provide financing for start-ups

Attract/ create venture capital funds

Facilitate IPO’s on ASE

Human Resources Development

Eliminate gap academia & private sector gap

Promote job fairs organized by companies

Focus on “soft skills” at universities

Promote knowledge-based society

Collaborate with international universities

Enhance public sector ICT skills

Thank You