Oman’s Global Drive for Local Products: Key Opportunities and Impacts for Investors and Entrepreneurs
MUSCAT – In the first half of 2025, Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) intensified efforts to broaden the global reach of Omani products, resulting in notable growth in exports and trade partnerships.
The ministry’s Export Development Department, known as “Oman Exports,” organised and participated in five specialised trade exhibitions under the Omani Products Promotion Committee (OPEX). This committee includes the Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Madayn, and the SME Development Authority (Riyada). The campaign aimed to increase international recognition of Omani goods by hosting global importers, arranging business meetings, and conducting promotional activities.
At the Baghdad International Fair in February, 30 Omani companies participated, with 70% signing distribution contracts و 67% securing new export orders. During the Gulfood exhibition in Dubai, 75% of the 10 participating Omani firms finalized confirmed deals, while 91% engaged in ongoing negotiations. In May, the Saudi Food Show in Riyadh featured 14 Omani companies showcasing their products, supporting both Oman Vision 2040 and Saudi Vision 2030. On the local front, Horeca Oman highlighted opportunities in the food and hospitality sectors. The initiative reached a peak in June with Oman’s role as Guest of Honour at the Algiers International Fair, where President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Minister Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef inaugurated a 900-square-metre Omani pavilion hosting over 60 institutions.
Data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information reveals that Oman’s non-oil exports increased by 7.2% in the second quarter of 2025, reaching OMR 2.701 billion. The UAE led as the top importer with a 22.9% increase, totalling OMR 485 million, followed by Saudi Arabia at OMR 451 million (+34.9%) and India at OMR 280 million (+38.9%). Strong demand was also recorded from South Korea and the United States.
Fares bin Nasser Al-Farsi, Head of Oman Exports at MoCIIP, stated, “These positive indicators reflect the success of national efforts to enhance export competitiveness and open new markets.” He highlighted support mechanisms such as international promotion, streamlined procedures, and the utilisation of trade agreements.
The ministry reaffirmed its dedication to strengthening the “Made in Oman” brand, diversifying the production base, and boosting SME participation in exports as part of Oman Vision 2040.
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Oman’s strategic focus on expanding international export channels and enhancing the "Made in Oman" brand signals significant growth opportunities for businesses, especially SMEs looking to enter global markets. The uptick in non-oil exports and strong trade ties with key partners like the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India presents valuable openings for investors to capitalize on diversified, export-driven growth aligned with Oman Vision 2040. Smart entrepreneurs should leverage state-backed support and streamlined trade facilitation to maximize their competitive edge amid rising global demand for Omani products.