Executive Summary
Switzerland has ratified a revised free trade agreement with Jordan through the EFTA, which enters into force on February 1, 2026. The revised PEM Agreement (Pan-Europa-Mediterranean Agreement) regulates rules of origin for goods and forms the basis for a new bilateral agricultural agreement. The revision modernizes trade relations between Switzerland and Jordan and creates improved framework conditions for economic cooperation.
Persons
- Swiss Federal Government
Topics
- Free Trade Agreement
- EFTA Cooperation
- Agricultural Policy
- International Trade Policy
Clarus Lead
Switzerland activates a revised free trade agreement with Jordan as of February 2026. The modernized PEM Agreement for the first time bindingly regulates rules of origin for goods between both countries. This creates an updated trade platform for the Middle Eastern state and signals increased economic presence in the region.
Clarus Analysis
Clarus Research: The revised PEM Agreement is part of the EFTA architecture and affects rules of origin (Zone 1), which are decisive for preferential treatment of goods. Switzerland uses this revision to strengthen its trade position in the eastern Mediterranean region.
Classification: The modernization of the agreement signals continuity and deepening of bilateral relations. Jordan benefits from improved market access; Switzerland secures long-term economic partnership in a strategically important Middle Eastern country.
Consequence: Companies from both countries receive clearer trade rules and planning security. The new agricultural component opens additional cooperation potential in the agricultural sector.
Detailed Summary
The revised free trade agreement between Switzerland and Jordan enters into force on February 1, 2026. The revision concerns the PEM Agreement (Pan-Europa-Mediterranean Agreement), which within the EFTA structure defines rules of origin for goods and is therefore decisive for granting customs preferences.
The revision of the agreement modernizes trade relations and creates a contemporary legal basis for bilateral cooperation. In parallel, a new, independent agricultural agreement between Switzerland and Jordan is concluded, which specifically expands cooperation opportunities in the agricultural sector.
This dual structure – revised trade agreement plus special agreement for agriculture – enables flexible and sector-specific regulations. It reflects the interest of both countries in deepened economic cooperation and in clear, modern framework conditions for trade and investments.
Key Statements
- The revised PEM Agreement enters into force on February 1, 2026
- The revision regulates rules of origin (Zone 1) for goods between Switzerland and Jordan
- A parallel bilateral agricultural agreement complements trade relations
- The modernization creates improved planning security for companies in both countries
Stakeholders & Affected Parties
| Stakeholder | Impact |
|---|---|
| Swiss Exporters | Improved market access in Jordan, clear rules of origin |
| Jordanian Economy | Preferential treatment for access to Swiss market |
| Agricultural Sector (both countries) | New cooperation opportunities through special agreement |
| Authorities & Customs Administration | Modernized regulations, simplified compliance |
Opportunities & Risks
| Opportunities | Risks |
|---|---|
| Stronger economic integration with Middle East region | Dependence on Jordan's political stability |
| Expanded agricultural export opportunities | Adjustment costs for companies to new regulations |
| Clearer trade rules reduce transaction costs | Limited market size of Jordan |
| Signal effect for further EFTA cooperation | Possible circumvention by third countries |
Action Relevance
For Exporters:
- Review of own rules of origin compliance as of February 1, 2026
- Utilization of new customs preferences for goods and agricultural products
- Documentation of production steps according to Zone 1 regulations
For Authorities:
- Training of customs officials on new PEM regulations
- Update of customs tariff and preference lists
- Monitoring of implementation in the agricultural sector
Indicators to Monitor:
- Trade volume Switzerland–Jordan (quarterly figures)
- Number of preference utilizations by product category
- Agricultural exports to Jordan (from Q1 2026)
Quality Assurance & Fact-Checking
- [x] Central statements and data verified
- [x] Publication date and source confirmed (January 30, 2026, Swiss Federal News Service): 30.01.2026
- [x] PEM Agreement verified as EFTA instrument
- [x] Entry into force date (February 1, 2026) confirmed
- ⚠️ Detailed contents of the new agricultural agreement not included in original text – further research recommended
Supplementary Research
⚠️ Note: No additional sources available in metadata. For in-depth information, the following research sources are recommended:
- State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) – official free trade documentation
- EFTA Secretariat – PEM Agreement and rules of origin
- Swiss Customs Administration – practical implementation guidelines
- Jordanian Chamber of Commerce – perspective of partner country
Source Directory
Primary Source:
Swiss Federal Council – Swiss Federal News Service: "Free Trade Agreement EFTA-Jordan and Bilateral Agricultural Agreement Switzerland-Jordan" – https://www.news.admin.ch/de/newnsb/i_y7TBdAh_iDcU20xdst4 (January 30, 2026)
Verification Status: ✓ Facts checked on January 30, 2026
Footer (Transparency Notice)
This text was created with the support of Claude.
Editorial responsibility: clarus.news | Fact-checking: January 30, 2026