Exports Power Oman’s Economic Growth: Key Opportunities for Investors and Business Owners
SUHAR: Omani products are increasingly establishing a strong presence in international markets, supported by consistent growth in exports and rising global demand. North Al Batinah, benefiting from its strategic location and advanced logistics infrastructure, is becoming a key driver of this progress.
At a recent forum hosted by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), North Al Batinah branch, business leaders, government officials, and logistics experts convened to explore how ports and maritime shipping can enhance opportunities for national exports. The event highlighted Sohar Port and Freezone as vital gateways to global markets and significant contributors to Oman’s trade competitiveness.
Eng. Saeed al Abri, Chairman of OCCI North Al Batinah, emphasized the sector’s critical importance, stating: “Maritime shipping is the backbone of global trade. By investing in logistics efficiency and fostering international partnerships, Oman can broaden market access and strengthen its competitive position.” He also pointed to the Oman-U.S. Free Trade Agreement as a valuable opportunity, providing customs exemptions and facilitating easier access for Omani goods into one of the world’s most lucrative markets.
Recent data reveals that Oman’s non-oil exports reached RO 1.618 billion in the first quarter of 2025, marking an 8.6% increase compared to the same period in 2024. By the end of 2024, exports totaled RO 23 billion, reflecting a 10% growth from 2023. This upward trend continued into 2025, with exports valued at RO 10.683 billion by mid-year.
North Al Batinah demonstrated significant progress, with exports rising to RO 676 million—a 37% increase—while container traffic at Sohar Port grew by 15% in 2024.
The forum drew a strong turnout of entrepreneurs, business owners, and representatives from various companies and institutions, underscoring growing community awareness of the importance of exports and logistics in strengthening Oman’s economy. For many attendees, the event offered valuable insights into expanding Omani products into global markets and the ways small and medium enterprises can leverage enhanced shipping and trade facilities.
Representatives from larger companies highlighted the importance of such forums in fostering stronger public-private partnerships. They stressed that collaboration between businesses and government entities is essential for enhancing Oman’s competitiveness and ensuring the benefits of trade are widely shared.
The participation of logistics and shipping firms underscored the critical link between infrastructure and trade, showcasing the sector’s preparedness to support exporters in delivering Omani goods efficiently to international markets. The diversity of participants at the forum demonstrated that collective engagement and heightened awareness are key to driving sustainable economic growth in the Sultanate.
The forum concluded with a call for closer integration among government bodies, logistics providers, and exporters to bolster Oman’s global trade presence and secure its position as a competitive player on the international stage.
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Oman’s strategic focus on enhancing logistics and maritime shipping, especially through North Al Batinah and Sohar Port, signals a pivotal shift toward strengthening its export capabilities. With non-oil exports growing robustly and trade partnerships like the Oman-U.S. Free Trade Agreement providing critical market access, businesses should capitalize on expanding global demand and improved trade infrastructure. Smart investors and entrepreneurs must prioritize sectors linked to logistics, export-oriented SMEs, and international collaborations to leverage Oman’s rising competitiveness and drive sustainable economic growth.
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