MUSCAT: The Competition Protection and Anti-Monopoly Centre has emerged as a critical regulatory pillar supporting investor confidence and economic stability in the Sultanate of Oman, playing a central role in safeguarding market fairness and preventing monopolistic practices.
At the microeconomic level, the Centre regulates market behaviour by curbing anti-competitive conduct, promoting fair pricing and improving efficiency. This approach widens consumer choice, protects business owners and enables small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to compete on equal footing within a transparent and regulated marketplace.
Its macroeconomic impact is equally significant. By limiting price distortions and excessive market concentration, the Centre supports productivity growth, reduces systemic risks and enhances the overall attractiveness of Oman’s investment environment. These efforts directly align with Oman Vision 2040 objectives on economic diversification and private sector-led growth.
Ahmed bin Salem al Rasbi, Director General of the Competition Protection and Monopoly Prevention Centre, said competition policy is not merely regulatory but a powerful economic tool that raises market efficiency, stimulates innovation and strengthens investor trust. He noted that fair competition underpins a sustainable economy built on quality products and services, free from illicit market influence.
Al Rasbi explained that the Centre operates through an integrated framework focused on strengthening compliance in sensitive sectors, protecting SMEs from restrictive practices, enhancing price and information transparency; and monitoring economic indicators to identify risks linked to monopolies or excessive concentration.
He revealed that the Centre is developing a package of forward-looking initiatives, including national competition indicators based on advanced economic methodologies, full automation of services to accelerate monitoring and analysis; and sectoral studies covering construction, building materials and e-commerce — industries with direct influence on pricing and market access. Cooperation with government entities and the private sector is also being expanded to foster a more flexible and equitable business environment.
During the first half of 2025, the Centre completed investigations into 15 complaints related to suspected anti-competitive practices, reinforcing compliance and contributing to a more stable and efficient market.
Khalid bin Khamis al Masrouri, Director of the Prohibited Practices Department, said complaints centred on abuse of dominant market positions, price manipulation and barriers to market entry. All cases were handled in strict accordance with the law, raising awareness among companies of their regulatory obligations.
On economic concentration, the Centre reviewed seven cases to ensure mergers and acquisitions do not result in monopolistic structures that could harm competition.
Wahiba bint Rashid al Hinaiyah, an economic researcher in the Economic Concentration Department, said oversight of mergers and acquisitions is a frontline defence for the national economy, warning that unchecked concentration can suppress innovation and distort prices before damage becomes visible.
Meanwhile, Rajwa bint Mohammed al Rashidiyah, a competition specialist, highlighted progress in implementing recommendations from sectoral studies, including the hypermarket sector. She added that the Centre has also investigated cases involving unfair competition against national products, helping shield local industries from dumped imports.
Bader bin Mubarak al Hajri, Head of the Anti-Dumping Department, confirmed that monitoring of dumping cases remains ongoing. — ONA
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