ABJ and IGC partner to advance research on Jordan's banking sector and SMEs

21 September 2025, Amman – The Association of Banks in Jordan (ABJ) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the International Growth Centre (IGC), a global research initiative led by the London School of Economics and Political Science (LSE) and the University of Oxford. The agreement places research and evidence generation at the heart of efforts to strengthen Jordan’s banking sector and support the growth of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

The MoU was signed by Dr Maher Mahrouq, Director General of ABJ, and Jonathan Leape, Executive Director of the IGC, in the presence of Salma Shaheen, IGC Jordan Country Lead Economist, and Fadi Mashharawi, Director of Studies, Policy and Planning at ABJ.

Through this partnership, ABJ and IGC will collaborate on setting research priorities and producing evidence-based insights into the challenges and opportunities facing SMEs in Jordan. Key areas of focus include financial inclusion, the use of credit information, digital financial services, and the adoption of green banking practices. The findings will inform policies and practical tools that expand access to finance and foster sustainable, inclusive economic growth.

The collaboration will involve joint research studies, policy papers, workshops, and knowledge-sharing events that bring together Jordanian and international experts. It will also explore capacity-building opportunities and promote the exchange of expertise between the academic and financial communities.

By embedding rigorous research into policymaking and banking practices, the partnership aims to develop innovative solutions for credit risk assessment, accelerate the adoption of financial technologies, and contribute to evidence-led development of Jordan’s financial sector.

Commenting on the partnership, Dr Maher Mahrouq, Director General of ABJ, said:

"This collaboration marks an important step in strengthening financial inclusion and innovation in Jordan’s banking sector. We look forward to working with the IGC to provide practical, evidence-based solutions that enhance the ability of banks in Jordan to support financial inclusion, empower SMEs, and contribute to sustainable economic growth."

Jonathan Leape, Executive Director of the IGC also welcomed the partnership, emphasising the importance of engaging the private sector in evidence-based economic research and policymaking. On his behalf, Shaheen, IGC’s Country Lead Economist for Jordan, said:

"Jordan has a well-developed banking sector and significant potential to foster financial innovation. This partnership will enable us to provide the analytical and research support needed to expand access to finance for SMEs and advance sustainability practices within the sector."

ENDS

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Contact information:
IGC: Theo Gott,  [email protected]