MUSCAT: With broad participation from the industrial and investment sectors, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion celebrated Omani Industry Day yesterday, February 15, 2025, under the theme: “From Oman to the World: Competitive Industry and a Global Vision”. The event underscored the pivotal role of industrial exports in enhancing Oman’s economic presence regionally and internationally.
The celebration was held under the auspices of Abdulsalam bin Mohammed al Murshidi, Chairman of Oman Investment Authority (OIA) and in the presence of Anwar bin Hilal al Jabri, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. It highlighted the quality and competitiveness of Omani products in global markets and aimed to strengthen coordination between government entities, manufacturers and exporters, while leveraging outcomes from Omani Industry Day 2025 to inform future policies and initiatives.
In his address, Eng Khalid bin Salim al Qasabi, Director General of Industry, reaffirmed the Ministry's commitment to Industrial Strategy 2040, which seeks to build a sophisticated industrial base focused on innovation and value creation. Key initiatives aim to increase the sector’s contribution to GDP, in line with Oman Vision 2040 priorities.
By 2025, the manufacturing sector contributed approximately RO 3.879 billion to GDP, growing 7.2% from 2024. Foreign investment in the sector reached RO 3.490 billion, a 24.6% increase, while non-oil exports rose to RO 6.885 billion, up 10.5% from the previous year. Employment in the industrial sector grew to 248,000, a 3% increase from 2024. Additionally, 166 industrial establishments obtained the National Product Identity and 439 exemption applications were approved, reflecting the effectiveness of incentives and support measures.
Dr Hilal bin Abdullah al Hinai, Chairman of the Omani Manufacturers Association, emphasised the need to shift from export volume to deeper production knowledge and higher product complexity. The Association plans targeted capacity-building initiatives, including an Economic Complexity Performance Card, establishing a standards support fund to help 30 factories obtain international accreditations, and addressing the precision manufacturing gap through specialised partnerships.
Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), highlighted the sector’s rapid growth as a reflection of economic strength and investor confidence. The Chamber continues to support private sector empowerment and partnerships to enhance competitiveness and expand international presence, contributing to Oman Vision 2040.
The event also featured the launch of the Industrial Observatory, designed to support industrial sector indicators and strengthen its position as a data-driven economic force. Engagement with industrial establishments will enhance integration, align expectations and encourage information sharing among stakeholders. An expert committee was also formed to coordinate public-private efforts, align industry needs with education and training outputs; and prepare national talent for future demands.
Several strategic programmes and agreements were signed, including the “Kafa’a” Lean Manufacturing Programme, which aims to transfer and localise lean manufacturing methodologies and a partnership with the Ithca Group to support the Advanced Automation Centre. Additionally, the Omani Manufacturers Association announced the expansion of its awards programme to prioritise high-complexity products, knowledge transfer, export flexibility and local added value.
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