RIYADH: The International Monetary Fund has approved a $834 million support package for Jordan’s economy which includes a $700 million loan and a $134 million disbursement from a previously agreed fund.

The institution’s executive board has completed the third review of Jordan’s Extended Fund Facility, allowing for an immediate distribution of the $134 million, according to a press release. This brings total disbursements so far under the four-year, $1.3 billion program, approved in January 2024, to $595 million.

Additionally, the new 30-month Resilience and Sustainability Facility arrangement will grant Jordan access to $700 million to address structural challenges in the water and electricity sectors and strengthen preparedness for public health emergencies, including future pandemics.

Jordan’s economy has faced mounting pressures in recent years, intensified by regional instability, including the ongoing war in Gaza and the prolonged hosting of large numbers of refugees from neighboring conflicts. These challenges have strained public finances, increased unemployment, and disrupted trade and tourism, key sectors for the Jordanian economy.

The IMF and World Bank have stepped up their support, backing reforms aimed at stabilizing finances and spurring growth under Jordan’s Economic Modernization Vision.