Oman and Tunisia Strengthen Trade and Investment Partnership: What It Means for Business Opportunities in Oman
MUSCAT: The Sultanate of Oman and Tunisia have reaffirmed their commitment to enhancing bilateral economic and investment relations following the recent Omani-Tunisian Economic Forum held in Tunis. The high-level forum emphasized both countries’ shared goal to expand trade, encourage joint investments, and establish sustainable partnerships that promote economic diversification and long-term growth.
The Omani delegation was led by Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. The team also included Hilal bin Abdullah al Sinani, Oman’s Ambassador to Tunisia; Rashid bin Amer al Musallahi, First Vice Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry; along with other government officials and private sector representatives. The forum served as a vital platform for direct dialogue between policymakers and business leaders, aiming to convert political goodwill into practical economic collaboration.
During the forum, several memoranda of understanding were signed to fortify commercial ties. Notably, a partnership agreement was established between Al-Zaytouna Oils Company and Karim & Nawaf Trading Company. Additionally, an agreement was reached to form a joint Omani-Tunisian company focused on business development and investment across key sectors such as tourism, industry, and food security, in line with diversification priorities. These agreements are expected to facilitate joint ventures and the sharing of expertise between enterprises from both nations.
The visit aimed to boost bilateral trade and expand joint investment ventures, with particular focus on sectors including industry, logistics, food processing, and pharmaceuticals. The Omani delegation held discussions with senior Tunisian officials, including Samir Obeid, Minister of Trade and Export Development, to explore mechanisms for easier market access and enhanced export promotion. Talks also centered on increasing the presence of Omani products in Tunisia and Tunisian goods in Oman.
Further meetings were conducted with Samir Abdelhafidh, Minister of Economy and Planning, focusing on Tunisia’s economic reform plans and investment promotion strategies. Discussions with Fatma Thabet Chiboub, Minister of Industry, Mines and Energy, identified promising opportunities in manufacturing, mining, and renewable energy. These engagements reflected mutual interest in developing value-added sectors and fostering industrial partnerships beneficial to both economies.
Speaking at the forum, Minister Al Yousef highlighted the steady growth in economic relations between Oman and Tunisia. He noted that trade volume reached RO 5.19 million in the first half of 2025, a significant increase of over 61% from RO 3.21 million during the same period in 2024. Tunisian investment in Oman also rose from RO 4.9 million in 2023 to RO 7.2 million by the end of 2024. Al Yousef underscored renewable energy, manufacturing, technology, logistics, and agriculture as key sectors with strong potential for future cooperation, emphasizing the alignment between Tunisia’s reform agenda and Oman Vision 2040.
The programme also featured meetings with prominent private sector institutions, including the Tunisian Union of Industry, Trade and Handicrafts and the Arab Institute of Business Leaders. Additionally, the delegation visited industrial and pharmaceutical facilities, gaining valuable insights into Tunisia’s industrial capacity and investment climate. These interactions reinforced the potential for deeper economic integration.
Both sides expressed confidence that this forum represents a new chapter in Omani-Tunisian economic relations, laying the groundwork for stronger, mutually beneficial partnerships in the coming years. — ONA
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The renewed bilateral commitment between Oman and Tunisia presents significant opportunities for businesses in Oman, especially in sectors like renewable energy, manufacturing, and logistics, aligning with Oman Vision 2040’s diversification goals. Smart investors should consider exploring joint ventures and cross-border partnerships to leverage Tunisia’s reform-driven economy and industrial strengths, while businesses must navigate the expanding trade flows that now show a robust 61% growth. This strategic collaboration reduces market entry risks and enhances access to new sectors, creating a fertile environment for sustainable economic expansion.
