MUSCAT : The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion said the value of non-oil exports reached approximately RO 5.002 billion by the end of September 2025, marking a 10.3 per cent increase compared to the same period in 2024. The growth highlights improved competitiveness of Omani products and the success of efforts to open new regional and global markets.

According to the Ministry, the performance was supported by an integrated export development system that includes external promotion, streamlined procedures, participation in international exhibitions, and continuous improvements in product quality and sustainability.

Sector-wise, base metals and related products led non-oil exports, exceeding RO 1 billion, followed by chemical industry products at nearly RO 658 million, and electrical appliances and equipment at about RO 460 million. Exports were distributed across the GCC, as well as Asian, African, and European markets, underscoring the diversification of both products and destinations and reducing reliance on a single market.

Her Excellency Ibtisam bint Ahmed Al-Farouji, Undersecretary for Investment Promotion, said the advanced performance of non-oil exports reflects the effectiveness of national policies aimed at strengthening economic competitiveness and diversification. She noted that the Ministry is working to empower national products, enhance the readiness of Omani companies, and expand trade partnerships to increase the contribution of non-oil exports to GDP.

She added that efforts are ongoing to improve access to foreign markets through enhanced promotional tools, greater participation in international exhibitions, activation of trade agreements, and initiatives that build exporters’ capabilities in line with global market requirements.

As part of these efforts, the Ministry launched the “Oman Exports” initiative and its integrated digital platform in February 2025, aimed at modernising trade promotion mechanisms and improving global market access for non-oil exports through collaboration between the public and private sectors.

For her part, Lubna bint Mohammed Al Harthy, Director of the Export Development Department, said the initiative represents a qualitative leap in export support by offering a digital platform that provides market data, consultancy services, and direct links between Omani exporters and international importers. By the end of September 2025, 365 companies had registered on the platform, with 37 additional applications under process, reflecting strong private-sector interest.

The platform also facilitates export procedures, provides specialised market studies, supports certification and licensing requirements, and addresses exporters’ reports and complaints. To raise awareness, the Ministry organised five introductory workshops in Muscat, Dhofar, Al Dakhiliyah, North Al Batinah, and South Al Sharqiyah.

In terms of external promotion, Oman participated in 17 local and international trade exhibitions and events in 2025 under the Omani Products Promotion Committee (OPEX), resulting in confirmed and potential trade deals, agency and distribution agreements, and new links with importers in promising markets.

Meanwhile, work is under way to prepare a national strategy for developing non-oil exports, which will assess the current situation, identify promising products and target markets, and address challenges facing exporters. During 2025, the Ministry prepared 67 trade and statistical reports, conducted specialised market studies, carried out over 20 field visits to Omani factories, and signed memoranda of understanding with regional and international entities to strengthen trade partnerships and open new markets for Omani products.

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