Jordan: Government cancels fuel and electricity price hikes June 1

Event

The Jordanian government froze fuel and electricity price hikes on Friday, June 1, after hundreds of people participated in anti-government protests in Amman and other Jordanian cities late on Thursday, May 31 (local time), and early on Friday. Notably, some protesters in Amman obstructed streets with their cars and dozens of protesters blocked roads in Irbid and Ajloun with burning tires. Further potential price or tax hikes may trigger additional protests in Jordan in the near-term.

Context

Several protests have been held in Jordan in recent months over tax and price hikes. Most recently, thousands of people participated in a nationwide strike and protests on May 30, notably in Amman, over a proposed income tax hike. Also, protests broke out after the Jordanian government increased the prices of fuel and bread, as well as the value-added tax on various consumer goods such as cigarettes, carbonated drinks, and jewelry in January 2018. In February, the government also announced hikes to public transport fares, including taxis and buses, and electricity and oil prices, leading to more demonstrations.

Advice

Individuals in Jordan are advised to monitor developments to the situation, avoid all demonstrations as a precaution, and adhere to all instructions issued by the local authorities.