MUSCAT : Oman’s construction materials sector is emerging as a key pillar of the country’s industrial growth strategy, with a government-backed market review highlighting strong manufacturing capabilities, export potential and investment opportunities across multiple segments.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP), through its Competition and Monopoly Prevention Centre, has completed a two-day workshop examining the sector in cooperation with the United Nations Economic and Social Commission for Western Asia (ESCWA).

Preliminary findings from the ongoing study show that Oman’s construction materials market is valued between $206 million and $300 million, with the architectural and decorative materials segment accounting for approximately 85 per cent of the market.

The review also highlighted the strength of Oman’s cables and electrical wires industry, where annual production exceeds 120,000 tonnes, with products exported to more than 50 countries, underscoring the sector’s growing international competitiveness.

Speaking at the workshop, Ahmed bin Salim Al Rasbi, Director General of the Competition and Monopoly Prevention Centre, said the initiative marks an advanced phase of a comprehensive study aimed at assessing market structure, competition dynamics and challenges affecting sector efficiency.

The study’s findings point to even larger opportunities in heavy construction materials. According to Al Rasbi, Oman’s cement and clinker market is valued at $465.5 million and is expected to grow at an average annual rate of 4.8 per cent through 2029.

Meanwhile, domestic iron and steel production has reached approximately 3 million tonnes per year, with manufacturing activity concentrated largely in the Sohar Industrial Complex, one of the country’s key industrial hubs.

Officials said the next phase of the study will focus on validating findings with industry stakeholders and developing policy recommendations aimed at improving market efficiency, competition and investment attractiveness.

Khalid bin Khamis Al Masroori, Director of the Prohibited Practices Department, said strengthening competition remains critical to ensuring sustainable economic growth and supporting local manufacturing.

He noted that Oman benefits from several structural advantages, including integrated industrial complexes, reliable energy availability and advanced port logistics infrastructure. Growth in the pipes and fittings segment is also being supported by major gas and water infrastructure projects across the Sultanate.

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