Food security is a top national priority: Industry, Trade, Supply Minister

Jordan

Published: 2021-06-19 19:45

Last Updated: 2024-03-26 12:31


Food security is a top national priority: Industry, Trade, Supply Minister
Food security is a top national priority: Industry, Trade, Supply Minister

Saturday, the Minister of Industry, Trade and Supply Maha Ali addressed food importers and merchants on the measures taken by the Jordanian government last week to curb the rise in prices of basic food commodities in the local market amid rising global shipping rates.

During a meeting with the Amman Chamber of Commerce (ACC), Ali stressed the importance of maintaining strategic food reserves to enhance food security, which is a top priority for the government.

She called on the private sector to diversify imports from various different countries, noting that the ministry will look into all proposals "in a manner to achieve the public interest and ensure price security."

Ali also told attendees that the ministry will coordinate with the relevant government agencies to speed up and simplify clearance procedures of imported foodstuffs in accordance with health, safety and consumer protection standards and the relevant requirements, specifications and standards.

The ACC's President Khalil Haj-Tawfiq spoke of the need to exempt all kinds of imported food products from customs, taxes and fees, which currently range between four and 30 percent, saying it would help reduce import costs and stabilize prices.