Amman, Jordan, April 7, 2014
—IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, and the government of Jordan, today launched a new smartphone application to improve mandatory business inspections, part of efforts to improve the country’s investment climate and boost the economy by cutting red tape.
IFC designed the app, called Tawasol, to enable business owners to share their feedback on inspections and the performance of inspectors by answering short questionnaires via their smartphones. It will also provide inspection agencies and regulators with reports on the efficiency of the system, enabling them to improve operations, saving time and money for Jordanian businesses.
“Implementing inspection reforms is a national priority,
it contributes to the transition to a modern regulatory state and improves the business environment,” said Hatem Halawani, Minister of Industry and Trade in Jordan. “The new inspection feedback process promotes transparency, accountability, and partnership between the public and private sectors.”
In Jordan, more than half of the population own smartphones, making it easier for everyone to access the app, which can be found on
www.tawasol.gov.jo
or through mobile stores.
“Feedback is a critical component to measure the success of our reforms and monitor their progress,” said Khleef Alkhawaldeh, Minister of Public Sector Development. “This assessment process will help increase our productivity and provide an opportunity to take corrective action whenever needed.”
Ahmed Ali Attiga, IFC Country Manager in Jordan, said: “Implementing sound reforms is key to improve the business environment, attract investments, and foster a competitive market.”
IFC has been working with the government of Jordan on inspection reforms for the past two years. The initiative is part of IFC’s National Inspection Reform project, which aims to develop efficient and effective inspections that improve the regulatory framework, reduce burdens on businesses, and attract investments.
The project is part of wider IFC initiatives to improve Jordan’s investment climate and was made possible by USAID, IFC development partner.
About IFC
IFC, a member of the World Bank Group, is the largest global development institution focused exclusively on the private sector. Working with private enterprises in more than 100 countries, we use our capital, expertise, and influence to help eliminate extreme poverty and promote shared prosperity. In FY13, our investments climbed to an all-time high of nearly $25 billion, leveraging the power of the private sector to create jobs and tackle the world’s most pressing development challenges. For more information, visit
www.ifc.org
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