Oman promotes safe e-shopping at National Forum
MUSCAT: The Consumer Protection Authority (CPA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, hosted the national E-Commerce Forum on Monday under the theme 'E-Commerce: Between Consumer Rights and Supplier Responsibilities.' The event brought together key stakeholders from the public and private sectors, as well as digital economy specialists, to spotlight the importance of consumer protection in the evolving digital marketplace.
This initiative reinforces Oman's commitment to advancing digital rights and promoting safe online shopping in support of Oman Vision 2040, which places strong emphasis on innovation, knowledge-based growth and digital transformation.
Opening the forum, Muzna bint Rashid al Maamariyah, Acting Director of Communication and Media at the CPA, underscored the significance of collaborative dialogue among consumers, suppliers, regulators and economic players. She emphasised that as digital shopping becomes more prevalent, there is a growing need to foster awareness, ensure fair trade practices and protect consumer interests.
A key highlight of the forum was a video presentation followed by an overview of the CPA's awareness campaign titled 'Safe E-Shopping: A Vision Built on Achievement,' presented by Dr Muneera al Fikri. The event also featured the launch of an interactive exhibition showcasing digital tools and applications designed to support safe and transparent online commerce. In parallel, a nationwide public survey was introduced to evaluate consumer understanding of e-commerce risks and rights.
The first panel session featured presentations on regulatory measures and digital market safety. Azza al Kindi from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion addressed 'E-Commerce Regulation in the Sultanate of Oman,' followed by Khalid al Siyabi from the CPA discussing 'Safe Shopping in the Digital Economy.' Hajer bint Qambar al Ajmiyah from the Central Bank of Oman concluded the session with insights on 'Regulatory Framework for Financial Consumer Protection.'
The second session delved into behavioural economics and digital policy frameworks. Arwa bint Obeid al Zaabiyah from the Ministry of Economy presented 'Digital Fraud from a Behavioural Economics Perspective,' while Hilal al Alawi from the Telecommunications Regulatory Authority discussed postal service rights related to e-commerce. Rashid al Alawi from the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion wrapped up with a presentation on the 'Policy and Executive Programme for the Postal Sector.'
An open forum at the end allowed participants to engage directly with speakers, raising questions and sharing perspectives on digital consumer challenges and opportunities.
This forum forms part of the CPA's broader 'Safe E-Shopping' campaign, which aims to raise public awareness and build a responsible online shopping culture in Oman. The initiative seeks to strengthen consumer confidence, promote regulatory innovation, and create a transparent digital environment that benefits both consumers and businesses.
By convening regulators, service providers, and subject-matter experts, the event highlighted the urgent need for inclusive policies and robust consumer safeguards as Oman moves towards becoming a trusted regional hub for digital commerce — where innovation, trust and fairness define the marketplace.
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