The clothing and footwear sector is anticipating an improvement in consumer demand in the coming period, coinciding with the upcoming Eid al-Fitr. Traders typically witness a surge in shopping activity and intensified demand during the final days of the holy month of Ramadan.
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As'ad Al-Qawasmi, a board member of the Amman Chamber of Commerce, stated that prices in the local market remain stable compared to previous seasons. This stability is driven by high inventory levels, a wide variety of goods catering to all needs, and intense competition among traders.
Al-Qawasmi noted that Ramadan is one of the most significant shopping seasons for the sector, which merchants rely on to boost sales and meet financial obligations. However, he emphasized that current demand remains weak. He explained that Eid and early summer merchandise have arrived and are sufficient to cover market needs, noting that Eid imports reached 90 million JOD, accounting for 60% of the Kingdom's total annual clothing imports.
He pointed out that the sector has been affected by a liquidity crunch, citizens' financial commitments, and the growth of e-commerce. Al-Qawasmi added that the sector utilizes land import routes from countries like Egypt and Turkey, alongside local manufacturing alternatives, expressing hope that maritime freight rates will not increase.
From his side, importer and wholesaler Munir Deyeh confirmed that commercial activity remains limited and has not yet reached the levels seen in previous years. He noted that traders are waiting for the final days leading up to Eid.
"Commercial activity is still modest and cannot be compared to previous years in terms of demand and sales volume, which show a clear decline compared to the same period in past Ramadans," Deyeh said. He added that importers, wholesalers, and retailers have completed their preparations, offering goods at competitive prices and significant discounts to attract shoppers.
Deyeh noted that shop owners are pinning high hopes on the coming days, the potential early payout of salaries, and the possibility of deferring loan installments, which could stimulate the market and increase demand for Eid essentials.
The clothing, footwear, and textile sector is the largest commercial sector in the Kingdom, comprising approximately 11,000 establishments nationwide, employing 63,000 Jordanians, and hosting 180 international brands investing in the local market.
Source: Petra
