This article examines
Jordans implementation of prearrival processing under the World Trade
Organizations Trade Facilitation Agreement (TFA) analysing its alignment with
global standards and impact on trade efficiency in a resource constrained trade
dependent nation. With trade constituting over 70% of Jordans GDP prearrival
processing allowing advance submission of import documentation offers a
critical mechanism to enhance economic competitiveness by reducing customs
delays and costs. Using a qualitative case study approach informed by the
authors consultancy with the EUs Trade and Transport Facilitation Programme
(TTFP) and stakeholder interviews, the study explores Jordans prearrival
processing framework rooted in the Jordan Customs Law and Proclamation 25. It
assesses the systems evolution, low adoption with fewer than ten declarations
since 2004 informal practices, and alignment with international standards like
the General Agreement on Tariffs and Trade (GATT) Revised Kyoto Convention and
TFA. Key challenges include absent digital submission capabilities, unclear
regulations, and interagency coordination gaps hindering potential. Despite
technical compliance, Jordan lags behind leaders like Singapore and Japan due
to procedural complexity and limited stakeholder engagement. The article
proposes reforms including digitalization, simplified rules awareness
campaigns, and interagency coordination to bridge gaps offering lessons for
developing nations seeking to leverage prearrival processing for trade
facilitation and economic resilience in a globalized economy.