Jordan currently imports about 90% of its energy. But as MME found out, all that could change as the Kingdom explores oil shale and looks to go from an energy importer to an energy exporter.

MME is a weekly show focusing on the issues, developments and trends that affect the region’s business climate.

Story highlights

MME learns about oil shale exploration in Jordan

MME meets up with Leonardo Maugeri who predicts a steep drop in oil prices by 2020

Maugeri says high oil prices are fueling the growth of unconventional oils such as oil shale

CNN  — 

IN FOCUS: From importer to exporter

Unlike its Gulf neighbors, Jordan doesn’t sit on a wealth of oil reserves. It actually imports about 90% of its energy needs. But as MME found out, all that could change as the Kingdom explores oil shale and looks to go from an energy importer to an energy exporter.

FACETIME: Leonardo Maugeri

According to Leonardo Maugeri, Harvard Business School fellow, by 2020 we will witness a world where there is too much oil on the market and there will be a steep drop in oil prices. In Maugeri’s latest report, the former ENI Executive explains how high oil prices are fuelling the growth of unconventional oils such as oil shale and could prompt a plunge or even a collapse in oil prices. With oil prices continuing to hit $100 per barrel, MME caught up with Maugeri and asked him about his latest findings.

Marketplace Middle East airs weekly at the following times (all GMT):

Thursday: 1545,
Friday: 0845,
Saturday: 0615
Sunday: 0515, 1545