MUSCAT: In an exclusive interview with The Arabian Stories’ Arabic channel Al Sawt, Mubarak Al Dohani, Director General of Planning and Head of Digital Transformation at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, unveiled the government’s multi-phase campaign to tackle concealed (or “shadow”) trade while pushing Oman toward a fully integrated digital economy.
Speaking on the nation’s roadmap for economic reform, Al Dohani emphasized the Ministry’s commitment to building a competitive, tech-powered economy—starting with eliminating illegal commercial practices that undermine national growth.
“His Majesty the late Sultan Qaboos had warned of the growing threat of concealed trade,” Al Dohani recalled. “In line with that vision, the Ministry developed legislation to confront it, working with key partners across the government.”
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A ministerial decision was issued to combat shadow trade in collaboration with multiple agencies, including the Ministry of Labour, the SME Authority, the Central Bank of Oman, the Tax Authority, the Royal Oman Police, and the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry.
The first phase of enforcement was rolled out in Muscat, Dhofar, and North Al Batinah—three governorates with high commercial activity. Selected economic sectors were targeted to ensure a gradual and manageable implementation.
Inspections conducted by the Ministry’s Commercial Establishments Inspection Department focused on checking business licenses, bank accounts, labour compliance, and ensuring that revenue was deposited into institutional, not personal, accounts.
Initial inspections showed a lack of awareness among some businesses, prompting the Ministry to issue compliance notices. However, stricter legal action was taken against non-compliant or uncooperative entities.
Looking ahead, Al Dohani confirmed that the next phases will expand to include more governorates and economic sectors.
He also stressed the role of digital platforms in Oman’s future economic development, stating that technology is central to increasing transparency, enhancing regulatory compliance, and driving sustainable growth.
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