Amman, Jan 19 (Petra) -- The Cabinet approved several decisions Sunday focused on controlling food prices, expanding renewable energy projects, and settling government arrears during a session chaired by Prime Minister Jafar Hassan.

The Cabinet emphasized strict market monitoring to control prices, particularly poultry which has seen recent increases.

Industry and Supply Minister Yaroub Al-Qudah said enforcement measures have already helped reduce poultry prices by 15 percent, with efforts continuing to bring prices to normal levels.

The Cabinet ordered relevant ministries to intensify market inspections and develop early plans to prevent unjustified price hikes during Ramadan.

On renewable energy, the Cabinet approved new strategic projects including a 30-megawatt plant and a 6-megawatt floating solar facility for Arab Potash Company in the Southern Jordan Valley.

The company aims to reduce natural gas dependency and carbon emissions while meeting export market requirements, especially for European buyers.

The government also approved a 100-megawatt solar project for the Jordan Armed Forces in Aqaba Special Economic Zone.

Since issuing the new renewable energy regulation in 2024, authorities have approved 3,649 renewable energy projects.

Ministers extended tax and customs exemptions on renewable energy systems and equipment until February 28, 2025, for applications submitted before June 1, 2024.

Additionally, the Cabinet approved payments of government arrears to various entities including the Jordan Petroleum Refinery Company, pharmaceutical warehouses and companies, the National Center for Diabetes, University hospitals, and national electricity distribution companies, as part of a four-year plan to clear accumulated debt.

In a separate decision, the Cabinet referred Youth Ministry Secretary-General Hussein Al-Jabour to retirement, with procedures to begin for appointing a successor according to leadership position regulations.

//Petra// AA

19/01/2025 13:09:41