Source: FREEPIK: Google Image: HERE!
Biotechnology, rooted in biological processes, utilizes biomolecular techniques to create products and technologies that enhance environmental health and quality of life. For instance, microbial processes have long been used in the production and preservation of dairy products and bread (BIO, 2024). Jordan is developing a biotechnology industry with an emphasis on medicines, agricultural biotech, and healthcare. The government, universities, and private businesses are driving innovation in agricultural productivity and medical treatments. International cooperation is essential for progress despite obstacles like scarce finance. In Jordan, biotechnology is emerging as a key area for economic growth and scientific advancement (EY US,2024) .
Key Applications of Biotechnology
- Human Health: Biotechnology uses natural resources and genetic makeup to promote healing, reducing infectious diseases, saving lives, and reducing life-threatening conditions. It has led to personalized treatment plans, accurate disease detection instruments, and combating major ailments and common dangers in developing countries. This contributes to global health improvement (bio, 2024).
- Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions: Biotech utilizes biological processes and biocatalysts to create small factories, reducing global fuel production, petrochemical use, and greenhouse gas emissions, while also utilizing traditional biomass waste products (bio, 2024).
- Improved Gardening and Access to Food: Biotech enhances crop insect resistance, herbicide tolerance, and ecological farming methods, enhancing global food security, yields, chemical use, farmland tilling, nutrition, toxins-free food, and heart health (bio, 2024 ).
Degrees in Biotechnology 
Figurer 1 biotechnology offers three degrees: Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral. Bachelor’s covers molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry, microbiology, biostatistics. Master’s focuses on recombinant DNA 0technology, bioprocessing, and drug discovery. Doctoral graduates can pursue academia and industry leadership (Biotechnology Master’s Degree, 2024).
Sources:(Biotechnology Master’s Degree: Career Opportunities & Paths).
Leading countries in Biotechnology: 
Figure 2 the US, UK, and France dominate the biotech industry globally, with the US leading with 2,500 companies, the UK with 2,800, and France with top pharmaceutical companies.
Source: (The top-performing countries in biotechnology (according to the OECD)).
Jordan’s Biotechnology Industry
Biotechnology plays a significant role in Jordan’s economy, particularly within the life sciences subsector, which is one of the country’s growing industries. Thanks to a large pool of highly qualified workers, Jordan’s advantageous location, and several government initiatives, the industry has grown quickly, establishing Jordan as a major force in the area( LIFE SCIENCES SECTOR PROFILE,2023).
Advancements and Challenges in Jordan’s Biotechnology Sector
Jordan’s biotechnology industry is expanding rapidly, especially in the fields of medicines, healthcare, and agricultural biotechnology. Through creative research, academic institutions and research facilities like the University of Jordan and Jordan University of Science and Technology (JUST) are actively advancing these fields. To improve healthcare outcomes, for example, research activities in the field of medical biotechnology are concentrated on creating novel therapeutic strategies and diagnostic instruments. Biotechnology is being used in agriculture to boost production and enhance crop resilience, addressing the nation’s finite supply of arable land and water (Jordan Journal, 2024). Notwithstanding these developments, obstacles including insufficient capital and infrastructure still prevent the sector from reaching its full potential. Therefore, encouraging global cooperation and drawing in foreign capital are essential for the advancement of biotechnology in Jordan (IREX, 2023) .
Biotechnology’s Role in Jordan’s Economy and Contribution to GDP
Figure (2) Sources: (World bank group) ;(Jordan Journal of Agricultural Sciences); (Springer link) ; (UNDP) .
Successful biotechnology companies in Jordan
Jordan’s biotechnology sector comprises established businesses and startups focusing on developing advanced treatments and technologies. Stem Cells of Arabia, a pioneer in stem cell research and regenerative medicine, is a notable success story in the industry, aiming to produce innovative medicines and treatments for various diseases and medical problems, transforming healthcare and improving patient outcomes (invest Jordan).
Top Pharmaceutical and biotechnology Companies in Jordan include Hikma Pharmaceuticals, IQVIA, Boehringer Ingelheim, Ferring Pharmaceuticals, Novartis, Pfizer, and Roche. Hikma is an expert in both branded and generic drugs, with a focus on injectables and biosimilars. IQVIA is a multinational provider of contract research services and sophisticated analytics for the life sciences. Ferring Pharmaceuticals specializes in endocrinology, gastrointestinal, and reproductive health, while Boehringer Ingelheim concentrates on human pharmaceuticals, animal health, and biopharmaceutical manufacturing. Novartis makes significant investments in neuroscience, immunology, and oncology research. Pfizer is well-known for its medicines and vaccines, including the COVID-19 vaccination. Roche is a leader in personalized healthcare, combining diagnostics and medications(Glassdoor,2024).
Strategic Government Initiatives
- The Investment Promotion Strategy 2023-2026:
The Jordanian government’s Investment Promotion Strategy 2023-2026, in collaboration with the World Bank and private sector partners, aims to boost sustainable economic development by attracting 30.3 billion Jordanian dinars in investments over the next decade. The strategy focuses on key sectors like biotechnology and pharmaceuticals, promoting R&D and launching new products to strengthen these industries. The plan includes a detailed plan for the pharmaceutical sector (Investment Promotion Strategy 2023-2026).
- The Modernization Vision Strategy (2021):
The Modernization Vision Strategy (2021) aims to enhance the pharmaceutical and biotechnology sectors in Jordan. It calls for regulations for drugs and biosimilars, accessibility of intellectual property databases, upskilling programs, and relaxed pricing rules. It also calls for a unified strategic body to coordinate efforts and improve Jordan’s global position in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical industries (Economic Modernisation Vision, 2021).
Why Invest in Jordan’s Life Sciences Sector?
- Government initiatives for business process streamlining and investment promotion.
- Life sciences sector support in free trade agreements.
- Highly educated population with over 30% university degrees.
- 10 universities with dedicated life sciences faculties.
- Prosperous export ecosystem through strategic partnerships.
- Competitive operational costs and ICT sector.
Future Prospects for Biotechnology in Jordan
The biotechnology sector is rapidly advancing, with innovations in personalized medicine, gene editing, synthetic biology, vaccine development, immunotherapy, AI integration, 3D bioprinting, and telemedicine. These developments have the potential to transform healthcare, agriculture, and other industries. However, professionals must stay informed about regulatory changes, ethical considerations, and cross-disciplinary collaboration to ensure sustainability. In Jordan, the future of biotechnology is promising, with advancements in precision medicine, regenerative therapies, and agricultural biotechnology. However, continued government support, increased funding, and stronger industry-academia partnerships are crucial for fostering growth and long-term success.
