Latest news with #AdhambinTurkiAlSaid
Observer
16-04-2025
- Business
- Observer
FTA to soften blow of US tariffs on Omani exports
MUSCAT: The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) organized a virtual workshop on Tuesday titled, 'US Tariffs and Their Impact on Omani Exports', focusing on the recent executive decision by the United States regarding reciprocal tariff measures. The session addressed the potential repercussions of the new policy on Omani exporting companies and the broader national economy. The event also highlighted proposed mechanisms to mitigate any negative outcomes and discussed strategies for Omani institutions and businesses to preserve their competitiveness in the American and global markets. His Highness Sayyid Dr Adham bin Turki Al Said, Chairman of the Economic Committee at OCCI, emphasized the significance of the new tariffs, stating: 'The imposition of uniform global customs tariffs by the US represents a significant challenge for Omani trade, especially regarding bilateral commerce. However, the continued benefits of the Oman–US Free Trade Agreement (FTA) offer a competitive edge compared to other countries. Omani institutions must closely monitor these developments and verify tariff codes and the country of origin to ensure they continue to benefit from exemptions and advantages granted under the agreement.' He further stressed the importance of proactive planning to ensure that Omani products remain competitive in US and global markets. Shaikh Saud bin Ahmed al Nahari, Board Member of OCCI, highlighted that the session is part of the Chamber's efforts to keep pace with changes in global trade policies and help Omani companies prepare for any potential impacts. 'Despite the existing FTA between Oman and the US, the new tariff measures have included Omani exports. Government agencies in Oman are actively engaging with their US counterparts to review the implications of this policy. Meanwhile, OCCI continues to educate business owners and exporters through workshops and expert-led discussions to enhance their readiness and resilience.' Amy Hawn, Managing Partner at the Omani Trade Office in the United States, noted that the Oman–US FTA still provides Omani exports with a competitive margin compared to non-FTA countries, which can help soften the blow of the new tariff regime. Michael J Ford, President of TradeBridge Consulting, stressed the importance for Omani companies to stay informed about tariff updates and to regularly verify their Harmonized System (HS) codes and rules of origin to fully capitalize on the FTA exemptions. The session was part of OCCI's ongoing commitment to supporting the private sector in understanding global commercial shifts and preparing for potential risks to trade. The platform enabled open dialogue on emerging challenges and opportunities, fostering direct interaction between Omani business leaders and international trade experts.
Times of Oman
02-03-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Engineering innovation in spotlight at SQU event
Muscat: The 15th Engineering Gathering commenced at Sultan Qaboos University (SQU) under the patronage of His Highness Sayyid Dr. Adham bin Turki Al Said, Assistant Professor in the Department of Economics and Finance at the College of Economics and Political Science. The event took place at the Al-Fahm Hall in the Cultural Centre. The gathering welcomed engineering students from within the Sultanate of Oman and the United Arab Emirates, Iraq, Jordan, Syria, and Saudi Arabia. Students participating in the gathering represent various higher education institutions, including Sohar University, the University of Technology and Applied Sciences (Muscat and Shinas), United Arab Emirates University, the University of Al-Anbar in Iraq, the International College of Engineering and Management, and the National University. Covering a range of engineering disciplines such as architecture, civil engineering, chemical engineering, petroleum engineering, mechanical engineering, industrial engineering, and mechatronics engineering, the gathering provides a broad platform for showcasing innovative ideas and advanced technical solutions. Students will present their innovations and projects, competing for a series of awards, including the departmental engineering award for each specialisation and the grand prize for the best projects. The gathering also features an engineering exhibition in the grand hall of the University Cultural Centre, displaying 32 carefully selected projects following rigorous screening stages. Additionally, interactive activities and events enrich participants' knowledge and foster experience exchange. The gathering will continue until 5th March, running from 11:00amto 5:30pm and from 7:30pm to 10:30pm. One of the projects featured at the gathering is the design of Musandam International Airport by SQU. This project focuses on designing a modern airport in the Musandam region to boost tourism and support the local economy. The design incorporates sustainable architectural solutions tailored to the region's mountainous topography while ensuring safety and operational efficiency. The project also includes a study of air traffic movement and space management to enhance passenger experience. Another notable project is Recycling Marble Powder in Concrete Production by SQU. This project aims to utilise waste generated from the marble industry by incorporating marble powder into precast concrete blocks. The research focuses on enhancing the strength and durability of concrete while reducing the environmental impact of marble waste accumulation. The project also explores the potential for reducing natural resource consumption, promoting sustainability in the construction sector. Enhanced Oil Recovery Using Chemical Injection by the National University, investigates the use of chemical injection techniques to improve crude oil extraction from oil fields. It aims to enhance production efficiency by reducing the water content in extracted oil, thereby conserving resources and minimising environmental impact. The project also examines different chemical formulations to optimise output at minimal cost. The Brain-Controlled Robotic Arm System, developed by the University of Al-Anbar, Iraq, utilises electroencephalography (EEG) technology to enable individuals with disabilities to control prosthetic limbs using brain signals. An advanced electronic interface is being developed to translate neural signals into motion commands, providing users with precise and seamless control over prosthetic limbs, thereby enhancing their quality of life. Another innovative project is the Design and Manufacturing of a Thermal Energy Storage System for Oman by SQU. This project seeks to develop a thermal energy storage system powered by solar energy to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and improve energy efficiency in Oman. The design incorporates innovative solutions using phase change materials (PCM) and advanced heat transfer systems, enabling stored energy to be used later for heating or electricity generation. This initiative supports global trends in renewable energy and environmental sustainability. A Miniature Robot for Lunar Surface Exploration, developed by SQU, aims to develop a small robot capable of efficiently exploring the lunar surface. The robot is designed to be lightweight and capable of navigating rugged terrain while equipped with smart technologies for data collection and analysis. This innovation contributes to the advancement of space exploration and unmanned exploration technologies. Another groundbreaking project is the Production of Blue Hydrogen from Flare Gas by SQU. This project seeks to harness wasted flare gas in Oman to produce blue hydrogen, aligning with the environmental goals of the Oman Vision 2040. The project employs steam methane reforming (SMR) technology combined with carbon capture and storage (CCS) to reduce emissions and promote sustainability. The technical analysis suggests that 1.5 million standard cubic feet of flare gas per day can be converted into 36 tonnes of blue hydrogen daily, strengthening Oman's role as a key producer of low-carbon hydrogen. Artificial Intelligence for Optimising Medical Appointment Scheduling by SQU, aims to develop an AI-powered system to enhance medical appointment scheduling by leveraging machine learning algorithms to predict patient no-shows, reduce waiting times, and optimise the utilisation of medical resources. The system analyses clinical data and patient behaviour to provide flexible and accurate scheduling solutions, improving healthcare service efficiency. The 15th Engineering Gathering serves as a dynamic platform that opens horizons for young minds to redefine engineering innovation. Through the participating projects, creativity merges with ambition, crafting solutions to address future challenges. This event is not merely a celebration of achievements but an invitation to continue research and development, reinforcing the role of young engineers in building a smarter and more sustainable future. Here, engineering emerges as a tool for transformation and a means of shaping tomorrow.
