MUSCAT: The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ) participated in the third edition of the Oman–Philippines Forum, held in the Philippine capital, Manila, under the theme "The Strategic Oman–Philippines Council".
The Authority was joined by Salalah Free Zone, SOHAR Port and Freezone, the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD) and the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates (Madayn) to showcase investment opportunities and promote the competitive advantages offered by the Sultanate of Oman.
The forum brought together representatives from government entities and the private sector from both countries. During the event, OPAZ, together with the special economic zones, free zones and industrial cities under its supervision, highlighted Oman's key investment advantages and the promising opportunities these zones offer to Filipino investors and business leaders.
Throughout the forum sessions, OPAZ emphasised that economic cooperation between the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of the Philippines holds significant potential for growth, particularly in the logistics, food industries and electronics sectors. This potential is underpinned by the Philippines' globally recognised expertise in port management and precision manufacturing, alongside Oman's rapid progress in logistics, the digital economy and the development of engineering and technical capabilities.
The Authority also outlined the incentives and facilities available across Oman's special economic zones, free zones and industrial cities, including 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions of up to 30 years, full customs exemptions on imports and exports, no minimum capital requirement, as well as streamlined residency and permit procedures, all of which further enhance Oman's attractiveness as an investment destination.
Amna bint Nasser al Sharji, Investment Promotion Manager at OPAZ, said: "The Philippine market represents a promising partner for the Sultanate of Oman and we see substantial opportunities to strengthen cooperation in value-added sectors, particularly logistics, food industries and electronics. The competitive advantages offered by Oman's special economic zones, free zones and industrial cities extend beyond investment incentives to include a strategic location connecting global markets, a stable economic and political environment, an excellent quality of life and a fully integrated ecosystem of investor services that supports investors from the project planning stage through to operational launch. These advantages help foster sustainable investment partnerships that serve the interests of both countries".
OPAZ's participation in the forum forms part of its ongoing efforts to promote Oman's special economic zones, free zones and industrial cities, strengthen their presence in international markets and attract high-quality investments that contribute to economic diversification and the expansion of strategic economic partnerships with countries around the world.
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