Skip to main content

Jordan government takes on tax evasion, abuse of public office

Jordanians have welcomed the government’s latest push to prosecute officials and businessmen accused of tax evasion and money laundering, but wonder if the effort will be sustainable.
Police officers stand during trial held for over 30 businessmen and customs officials charged with millions of dollars in tax evasion, at the State Security Court, in Amman, Jordan March 12, 2019. REUTERS/Muhammad Hamed - RC179548DF80

Soon after it lifted most restrictions associated with COVID-19 health measures, the Jordanian government launched an unprecedented anti-corruption campaign June 6 against former officials, businessmen and companies suspected of involvement in tax evasion, money laundering, abuse of power and embezzlement.

There have been various news reports of police raids at the request of the Integrity and Anti-Corruption Commission (JIACC) of offices belonging to major businessmen, including one linked to a senior parliamentary figure. The owner of a cigarette manufacturing company is being investigated for unpaid taxes estimated at 134 million Jordanian dinars ($189 million), Al-Monitor has learned.

Access the Middle East news and analysis you can trust

Join our community of Middle East readers to experience all of Al-Monitor, including 24/7 news, analyses, memos, reports and newsletters.

Subscribe

Only $100 per year.