OCCI workshop underscores drive to improve business environment

MUSCAT, FEB 9

The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), in cooperation with the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, hosted a workshop on Sunday, February 9, 2025, highlighting their commitment to improving the business environment and promoting sustainable economic growth. OCCI Chairman Shaikh Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, joined by other senior officials, attended the launch at Mövenpick Hotel Muscat.

The weeklong Strategic Development Workshop brings together 20 government and private entities to support OCCI’s strategic goals in line with Oman Vision 2040. It focuses on improving the business environment, fostering provincial economic partnerships and expanding economic diversification, aiming to establish clear frameworks for OCCI's development strategy through targeted initiatives.

Zakariya bin Abdullah al Saadi, CEO of OCCI, highlighted the Chamber’s commitment to strengthening national sector strategies through over 120 days of collaboration with more than 180 employees. This effort shaped priorities to enhance the business environment, promote provincial partnerships, and diversify the economy. Al Saadi also emphasised the strategic partnership with the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, which enhances OCCI’s efficiency by integrating ideas from specialists and stakeholders to achieve goals of excellence and innovation.

The workshop aims to develop actionable programmes and initiatives that will enable the private sector to play a leading role in driving economic growth. Al Saadi reiterated that the Chamber looks forward to the outcomes contributing to the development of strategies that will significantly impact Oman’s economic future.

Khalfan bin Suleiman al Bahri, Director of the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, said the workshop is part of a strategy to improve the Chamber’s role in the private sector. After three months of preparation, it brings together experts and private sector representatives to exchange ideas and explore solutions, enhancing support for entrepreneurs and investors.

One of the workshop’s key focuses is strengthening cooperation between different economic sectors and institutions, both public and private. Al Bahri pointed out that through the exchange of knowledge and practices, effective policies and mechanisms can be developed to support businesses and enable sustainable growth.

Said bin Hamad al Shamsi, Head of the Economic Diversification Expansion Pillar, reiterated the Chamber’s focus on enhancing economic diversification as a core pillar of financial sustainability. He stated that through the workshop, the Chamber aims to create initiatives that promote investment opportunities in Oman and maximise the benefits of trade delegations and exhibitions at both local and international levels. These efforts will support global partnerships and boost the presence of Omani products in international markets.