Duqm Now Session: How Addressing Green Market Demands Can Benefit Your Business in Oman
CEO of Development Bank to Speak at Duqm Now Circular Economy Panel
MUSCAT, SEPT 10 – Hussain al Lawati, the CEO of the Development Bank, is set to participate in the Duqm Now Circular Economy panel discussion on Wednesday, September 17, at the Crowne Plaza Hotel in Al Duqm. The evening session, commencing at 7:30 PM, will assemble prominent figures from government, finance, and industry to explore how Oman can position itself as a leader in the global circular economy.
Joining Al Lawati on the panel will be Dr. Aisha al Sarihi, Environment Advisor at the Ministry of Economy, and Dr. Mohab al Hinai, Vice President for Sustainability & Circular Economy at be’ah. The discussion will be moderated by Talal al Shahri, Director of Specialised Radio Stations at the Ministry of Information.
This panel discussion arrives during a pivotal moment as the concept of a circular economy transitions into the mainstream. For Omani exporters and manufacturers, adherence to circular economy principles is increasingly becoming a prerequisite for market access. With the European Union’s Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism currently in its first phase and digital product passports on the horizon, companies that cannot demonstrate low-emission and resource-efficient production may find themselves excluded from critical markets.
“Banks cannot remain on the sidelines,” Al Lawati emphasized. “Financing models must adapt to ensure that Omani businesses not only comply with evolving regulations but also seize potential opportunities in recycling, remanufacturing, and resource efficiency.”
Global trends are intensifying the urgency of this shift. The World Bank predicts that global waste is set to nearly double by 2050 unless consumption habits are modified. There is a notable trend among consumers toward sustainable products, and investors are increasingly incorporating climate and regulatory risks into their portfolios. Europe’s regulations regarding carbon and eco-labelling are already affecting supply chain dynamics.
For Oman, the impacts are immediate. Exporters to Europe, particularly in energy-intensive sectors like aluminium, steel, and fertilizers, will require verified emissions data to mitigate substantial border costs. However, early adopters of circular business models may find significant advantages, as these models can lead to improved efficiencies and unlock new revenue streams.
Financial institutions globally are already ramping up support in this domain. The European Investment Bank has invested billions in projects that encompass plastics recycling and bio-based industries. Commercial lenders are also beginning to tie credit terms to measurable improvements in supply-chain sustainability.
“Circularity is not merely about waste reduction,” Al Lawati noted. “The global economy is being redefined by consumers demanding greener products and by companies that can deliver on these expectations. For Omani industries, competitiveness now hinges on meeting these demands and building trust in international markets.”
The Duqm Now initiative comprises a series of thought-leadership events organized by SEZAD, aimed at highlighting Al Duqm’s pivotal role in shaping Oman’s economic future.
تحلیل ویژه از عمانت | بازار عمان را کشف کنید
The upcoming Duqm Now panel illustrates a pivotal moment for کسب و کارهای عمانی to embrace the اقتصاد چرخشی, prompting immediate adaptation to new market demands. With European regulations tightening around emissions and sustainability, there’s a significant risk for exporters in energy-intensive sectors if they fail to comply. سرمایهگذاران و کارآفرینان هوشمند should focus on innovative sustainable practices now, as early adoption can not only mitigate risks but also unlock new revenue streams in the evolving global market.
