Amman, June 2 (Petra) – The Jordan Strategy Forum (JSF) has released a policy paper on the strategic opportunity the Risha Gas Field represents in terms of redirecting the kingdom's economic path, highlighting the field’s potential as a promising national resource capable of driving economic growth and sustainable development.

The paper examined both the opportunities and challenges associated with harnessing the gas field, drawing on international case studies to adopt best practices in the management of natural resources. It also outlined a series of recommendations aimed at ensuring effective and integrated development of this vital sector.

The forum emphasized that the discovery of significant reserves at the Risha Gas Field represents a strategic opening for Jordan to shift toward structural economic reform that supports progress and prosperity.

The paper reviewed several global experiences to identify optimal approaches to resource exploitation and governance, analyzing models of resource management contracts, strategic options available to resource-rich nations, best practices in concession agreements, and the regulatory capacities and skills required for such undertakings.

Among its key recommendations, the paper called for a phased approach to natural gas exports in the short term while simultaneously developing a comprehensive strategy for downstream manufacturing and economic diversification. Medium- and long-term plans should include strategic partnerships aimed at producing ammonia, polymers, methanol and other value-added products.

It also urged swift action to supply factories with gas, either as an energy source or as an industrial input, in order to lower production costs and boost the competitiveness of Jordan’s industrial sector. Additional recommendations included equipping the Ministry of Energy and Mineral Resources with the tools to attract and develop the required technical expertise, establishing integrated industrial clusters near gas sources, and directing investment toward research and development.

//Petra// AF

02/06/2025 20:30:52