Jordan Executive Actions Spark Human Rights Watch Concern, Highlight Market Risk

Amman, Jordan — 24 June 2026

Human Rights Watch (HRW) has publicly called for Jordan to reinstate its moratorium on capital punishment and cease the trial of civilians in military courts. This follows the recent execution of six prisoners convicted in security-related and criminal cases, marking the first known implementation of death sentences in the kingdom for several years. The New York-based rights group characterised these actions as a significant setback for human rights protections within Jordan.

Adam Coogle, deputy Middle East director at HRW, stated that Jordan should reverse this trend, re-establish its moratorium on executions, and ensure all trials adhere to international fair trial standards, particularly those involving civilians. This renewed international focus on Jordan's judicial practices comes at a time when the country is attempting to attract foreign investment and diversify its economy, including nascent sectors like health supplements and nutraceutical manufacturing.

The executions and HRW's response place Jordan under increased international spotlight, which can translate into heightened risk perceptions for businesses considering or currently operating within the market. Foreign investors and brand owners often factor a country's human rights record and rule of law consistency into their risk assessments, influencing everything from supply chain security to brand reputation.

Specific concerns for the supplement industry stem from the potential for revised ethical sourcing policies from major retailers and distributors in established markets such as Europe and North America. Brands sourcing raw materials from or manufacturing in Jordan may face additional scrutiny regarding their supply chain ethics and labour practices, leading to increased audit requirements and compliance expenditure.

What this means for Jordan

Jordanian manufacturers and brand owners face immediate commercial implications. The HRW statement could negatively influence foreign investor sentiment, potentially delaying or reducing critical inbound investment needed for scaling local supplement production. Export-focused brands may encounter demand for enhanced ethical sourcing certifications from European and US buyers by late 2026, increasing compliance costs and potentially extending lead times. Competitive positioning could erode if competitors in less scrutinised markets can offer faster, less friction-laden supply chain options. Local regulatory bodies might need to anticipate and address international concerns to maintain market attractiveness and sustain economic development goals in value-added sectors like supplements.

The emphasis on military courts for civilian cases also adds a layer of uncertainty regarding legal predictability, a key determinant for foreign businesses. Any perceived instability in the judicial system could necessitate higher risk premiums for trade credit insurance and investment, directly impacting the cost of doing business in Jordan.

Brand owners increasingly rely on contract-manufacturing partners such as Supplement Factory to navigate these requirements.