AMMAN — Freight movement through the Karameh Border Crossing has surged following a decision to extend operating hours at the crossing, amid increased Iraqi transit traffic arriving through Aqaba and heading to Iraq, the Ministry of Interior said on Thursday.

 

The ministry said that between May 4 and May 11, 2026, a total of 5,885 inbound trucks and 4,515 outbound trucks passed through the crossing, bringing total freight traffic during the period to 10,400 trucks.

 

According to the ministry, the average daily inbound and outbound truck movement rose to around 1,300 trucks after the extension of operating hours, compared with about 600 trucks per day previously, marking an increase of approximately 262 per cent.

 

The ministry added that around 3,971 trucks crossed Karameh during the same period in 2025, reflecting significant growth in freight movement and trade exchange between Jordan and Iraq.

 

It attributed the increase to the diversion of part of Iraqi freight traffic through Aqaba Port and onward via the Karameh crossing, prompting authorities to extend operating hours to facilitate the smooth flow of Jordanian exports into the Iraqi market.

 

The ministry stressed that the decision has helped ease congestion at the crossing, improve operational efficiency, accelerate customs clearance procedures and prevent delays to Jordanian exports despite the sharp rise in truck traffic.

 

It added that operations at the crossing are being conducted under strict organisational procedures and operational regulations, contributing to smoother freight movement and improved service delivery.

 

The ministry noted that the measures have also strengthened confidence in Jordanian-Iraqi commercial agreements and contracts, encouraging greater reliance on the Jordanian market to meet Iraq’s demand for various goods.

 

It also revealed that work is underway on a master plan for a comprehensive border facility at Karameh aimed at improving the working environment and enhancing the efficiency of logistical and administrative services at the crossing.

 

On May 4, the Ministry of Interior, in coordination with agencies operating at the crossing, announced the extension of freight operating hours, allowing outbound truck traffic to continue until midnight and inbound traffic until 10 pm, compared with the previous 5 pm closing time.