AMMAN — Food prices in the Kingdom are expected to remain largely stable throughout the holy month of Ramadan despite ongoing increases in global commodity prices, according to the Jordan Chamber of Commerce.

 

In a statement, Jamal Amro, the chamber’s foodstuffs sector representative, said, “Food prices in the local market are currently stable, and adequate quantities are available to meet consumer demand during Ramadan.”

 

He added that merchants have secured sufficient stocks in advance, which is expected to help maintain price stability throughout the month.

 

The only notable exception is vegetable oils, Amro noted, which have seen price increases in countries of origin. “Vegetable oil prices have risen by up to 10 per cent in exporting markets,” he explained, “which may partially affect local prices depending on shipment schedules and existing inventories.”

 

He stressed that “the overall food supply situation in Jordan remains comfortable, reducing the likelihood of sharp price movements during the peak consumption period.”

 

Globally, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) reported a rise in international food prices in February, driven by increases in sugar, dairy products, and vegetable oils. The FAO’s global food price index averaged 127.1 points last month, up 8.2 percent from the same period last year.

 

The increase was mainly fuelled by a rebound in sugar prices, with the sugar price index climbing 6.6 per cent to 118.5 points after three consecutive months of decline. Dairy prices also rose, with the dairy price index up 4 per cent, reflecting higher costs across a wide range of products, including cheese and whole milk powder.

 

Commenting on the local implications, economist and market analyst Adnan Qadi said, “Jordan’s ability to maintain relative price stability during periods of global volatility reflects the effectiveness of its supply chain management and diversified import strategies.”

 

He added that continued monitoring of international markets will be essential to limit the impact of external shocks on local consumers, particularly during high-demand periods such as Ramadan.