New ROP Initiative on Direct Debits: How It Affects Your Business Transactions in Oman
Royal Oman Police to Accept Complaints on Non-Cancellable Direct Debits
The Royal Oman Police (ROP) has announced that it will accept complaints regarding the non-cancellable direct debit tool, as established by the National Payment Systems Law, Royal Decree No. (8/2018), through police stations located throughout the Sultanate of Oman.
Understanding Direct Debit Automation Under the Law
According to Article 32 of the law, a direct debit refers to a payment order authorized to debit the payer’s bank account to benefit a designated recipient, at the recipient’s request. The specific provisions concerning direct debit— including its conditions, rules, and procedures—will be outlined in the accompanying regulations.
Article 33 allows an individual to issue a direct debit order to settle an existing debt, with the option for that order to be either revocable or irrevocable, as determined by the regulations.
In accordance with Article 34, the individual issuing the direct debit order is responsible for guaranteeing the payment of its value. Any stipulations that exempt them from this guarantee are considered void.
Article 35 specifies that payment of a direct debit order cannot be refused if there are sufficient funds available, even if the submission deadline has passed. Should a drawee bank choose not to fulfill the payment, it must document the refusal, including the time of submission and the amount due. This documentation must be officially dated and signed by the issuer.
Furthermore, beneficiaries may request the aforementioned documentation without encountering any hindrance. The obligated party may, however, request a grace period that does not exceed the next business day following the submission of the direct debit order, regardless of whether it was submitted on the final day of the submission deadline.
Article 36 mandates that any refusals to pay must be substantiated according to the procedures outlined earlier, before the submission deadline expires. If the direct debit order is presented on the final day, proof of refusal can be established by the next business day.
In circumstances of force majeure that hinder the timely submission of a direct debit order, Article 37 provides for the extension of these deadlines, with relevant procedures and controls specified in the regulations.
Lastly, Article 38 states that the statute of limitations applicable to checks shall also apply to direct debit orders, calculated from the due date of the respective order.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The Royal Oman’s initiative to enforce regulations on non-cancellable direct debit tools represents a significant shift in payment security and consumer protection. This development creates opportunities for businesses to streamline cash flow and reduce payment delays, but also introduces risks associated with compliance and potential disputes over payment refusals. Smart investors and entrepreneurs should closely monitor these changes, adapting their financial strategies to capitalize on the efficiency provided by direct debits while ensuring compliance to mitigate risks.
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