Economy and trade

Jordanians questioning the value of hosting World Economic Forum

Earlier this month, Jordan hosted the World Economic Forum for the 10th time, but a number of analysts charge that the gatherings have not produced any tangible economic results for the kingdom.

Jordan

Iran signals change to FX regime, crackdown on profiteering

The Iranian authorities said renewed turbulence on foreign exchange markets will be short-lived as signals were sent that a crackdown on profiteering is ahead.

United States

Turkey’s 'morally clean' TV series under fire

Amid a big expansion in their foreign audience, Turkish TV series are barred from featuring alcohol, smoking and anything sexual, but are free to show unstinted violence.

Turkey

Russia, Turkey look to strengthen relationship beyond Syria

Contrary to expectations, in Moscow Syria was a marginal story while Putin and Erdogan focused on further boosting bilateral ties.

Syria

Iran, Iraq forge ahead with collaboration amid US pressure

The Iraqi prime minister’s visit to Iran — his first since taking office — sends important messages to Tehran, Washington and Riyadh alike.

Iraq

Is debt answer to Middle East economic troubles?

The forecast for growth across the Middle East and North Africa is bleak. Unfortunately for the regions, heavy debt appears to be one way out.

Saudi Arabia

Will Hamas be partner to Trump’s Mideast plan?

Some see recent Israeli moves involving Gaza as part of a chess match having to do with President Donald Trump's reported "deal of the century" peace plan.

Qatar

Gaza fishermen hope for new start with expanded zone

Palestinians are pleased with the Israeli army's decision to expand the Gaza Strip fishing zone, though fishermen there still have to recover from years of hardship that have taken their toll.

Palestine

Mismanaged energy sector destroys viability of Jordan's industrial businesses

Business owners in Jordan are calling on the government to adopt long-term strategies to reform the energy sector that is threatening their survival.

Jordan

The economic balance sheet of Turkey’s local elections

The ruling party's loss of major economic centers in local elections deprives it of major resources amid a bruising economic crisis.

Turkey

Israeli elections: Where is the economy?

Contrary to previous election campaigns, which focused on the dire economic situation, the main themes of the current campaign are the scandals surrounding Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and questions about Blue and White head Benny Gantz’s personality.

Israel

5 obstacles to Khamenei’s call for ‘boost in domestic production’

While the Iranian supreme leader’s emphasis on domestic production in the face of external sanctions makes a certain amount of sense, the question is how such a strategy should be implemented — and in which sectors of the economy.

Iran