MoCIIP workshop stresses importance of fair market competition

MUSCAT: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP), in collaboration with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), organized a workshop to discuss regulations for shopping complexes and commercial centers on Wednesday, October 18, 2023.

Deliberations focused on the regulations governing the activities of shopping complexes, commercial centers, and hypermarkets. This event serves as a continuation of the ministry's ongoing efforts to formulate regulations for consumer complexes and commercial centers, in addition to streamlining the entry and presentation of Omani products within these establishments. These regulations align with the ministry's mission to create a competitive business environment that effectively contributes to the national economy.

Ali al Maamari, Head of Licensing at the Ministry, underlined the importance of collaboration between the Ministry and the Chamber to support the government’s goal of promoting a competitive business environment based on structured regulations.

At the core of these proposed regulations is the structured framework for consumer complexes and commercial centers, which seeks to elevate the quality of operations and meet defined objectives. Recent times have revealed a gap in regulatory oversight, particularly concerning space allocation, adherence to standards, and specification requirements within these establishments. As a result, the quality of commercial activities hasn't always matched their potential.

Additionally, concerns, such as higher fees imposed on specific national products and the practice of segregating them onto separate shelves, have adversely impacted the marketing quality of these goods. The draft regulations, as elucidated by Ali al Mamari, aim to confront and address these challenges, ultimately creating a more organized and equitable business environment for these enterprises.

The workshop reflects a shared commitment to enhancing the business environment and promoting the national economy through structured regulations and fair treatment of Omani products.