Latest news with #OmanIndustryDay
Zawya
10-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Oman signs agreements for 100 new industrial projects worth over $3bln
Muscat: Oman signs agreements for 100 new industrial projects with an investment volume of nearly OMR1.5 billion in the renewable energy, food and medical industries, air conditioning equipment industries, construction and building, metals and plastics industries, and in several industrial, economic and free zones. The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, celebrated Oman Industry Day, which falls on 9 February every year. The slogan of this year is 'Oman at the Centre of Global Supply Chains'. It reflects the Royal interest attached to this sector due to its vital role in enhancing diversification and spurring economic growth. The ceremony was held under the patronage of HH Sayyid Dr. Fahad bin Al Julanda Al Said, Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), in the presence of Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and some undersecretaries. A number of officials and businessmen in the industrial sector and Omani companies also attended the ceremony. Dr. Saleh bin Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry, said that the latest data issued by the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicate an increase in the output of the converting sector by 8.5 percent to reach OMR2.686 billion by the end of September 2024 at constant prices compared to the same period in 2023. He said in his speech that the Global Competitive Industrial Performance Report issued by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) indicates that the Sultanate of Oman achieved third place in the Arab world and 53rd globally, which reflects the acceleration of industrial competitiveness capabilities over the past years. He affirmed that the industrial sector has managed to achieve the targets of the Industrial Strategy 2040 during 2022 and 2023, as OMR3.44 billion was set as a target contribution for converting industries to the GDP for the year 2022. The contribution of this sector witnessed a growth of 19 percent between 2020 and 2023, reflecting the continuous progress towards achieving the goals of the strategy, thanks to the joint cooperation between the public and private sectors, he added. The industrial sector also provided about 26,000 job opportunities for Omanis since 2020, achieving a growth rate of 79 percent compared to 2020, reflecting its prominent role in supporting the national workforce, said Dr. Saleh. Dr. Saleh pointed out that non-oil commodity exports recorded a remarkable increase, reaching about OMR7.5 billion by the end of 2023, compared to OMR3.4 billion by the end of 2020, reflecting the accelerated growth in the industrial performance of the Sultanate of Oman. In his turn, Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) affirmed that the industrial sector enjoys tremendous opportunities for growth, sustainability and empowerment of the private sector in the Sultanate of Oman. He pointed out that the OCCI supports the empowerment of the private sector by anticipating challenges and attracting investments, in addition to empowering the Omani product and raising its competitiveness in local and foreign markets. During the ceremony, three memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were inked. The first one, signed with the International Centre for Industrial Transformation in Singapore, is related to supporting and encouraging factories to adopt the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The second MoU, signed with the Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting, pertains to providing consultations to establish a center for advanced automation, while the third MoU announced a strategic partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion launched, during the ceremony, the service of obtaining the national product identity certificate within the Made in Oman platform. It aims to promote Omani industries and highlight national products. The advanced automation centre was also launched, which aims to develop industrial capabilities to transform Omani industries into leading factories in digital transformation. A programme to qualify certified assessors using the Siri methodology was also launched to ensure that assessments are conducted accurately and professionally by training assessors on the latest methods and tools necessary to assess the readiness of facilities for industrial transformation. The ceremony also saw the announcement of the Certificate Verification Programme (Professional Accreditation), which provides a reliable service to companies to facilitate the process of verifying academic and professional documents. The Ministry also launched the Industrial Sector Enablers Guide, with the aim of enabling partners to identify the opportunities available in the industrial sector in the Sultanate of Oman and how to utilize them. Meanwhile, Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Al Qasmi, Head of the Local Content Office at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, gave a visual presentation in which he reviewed the industry's achievements and contributions in the Sultanate of Oman. Dr. Ahmed bin Khalfan Al Badawi, Director of the Industrial Strategy Implementation and Evaluation Department at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, also gave a visual presentation on the Industrial Observatory and its aspirations. On her turn, Anfal Zaher Al Afani, Head of Markets and Trade Facilitation Department at Oman Logistics Center, gave a visual presentation on supply chain improvement methodologies and how to use connectivity and integration to improve the supply chain to reduce costs and increase efficiency. During the ceremony, a dialogue session was held on supply chains and their importance with the participation of a number of specialists from the public and private sectors. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, held a dialogue session with the Omani industrialists. The session addressed means of enhancing local content and focused on the importance of strengthening supply chains in the industrial sector. They exchanged views on the challenges and opportunities available to Omani companies. It also highlighted how to enhance cooperation among various stakeholders to support sustainable growth in the sector. Gerd Muller, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), lauded the Sultanate of Oman's pioneering role in the field of sustainable manufacturing. He pointed out that these efforts reflect Oman's keenness to promote economic and social development in line with the organization's mandate, affirming that Oman has proven its ability to take serious steps towards developing a sustainable industrial sector, making it a role model to be emulated in the region. In his turn, Jesmond Hong, Chief Operating Officer of the International Centre for Industrial Transformation, said that the centre looks forward to strengthening cooperation with the Sultanate of Oman to drive industrial transformation and enable the manufacturing sector to achieve a prosperous future. The centre is a non-profit and independent organisation that aims to promote manufacturing transformation through collaboration with the public and private sectors. © Muscat Media Group Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Observer
09-02-2025
- Business
- Observer
Al Sharqiyah South stands out as a prominent industrial centre
Muscat, Feb 9 The Sultanate of Oman celebrated Oman Industry Day under the slogan "Oman at the heart of global supply chains", highlighting the pivotal role played by Oman in strengthening its industrial position regionally and internationally. South Al Sharqiyah Governorate stands out as a prominent industrial centre in Oman, combining rich natural resources, a strategic location, and advanced infrastructure that enhance its participation in global supply chains. This governorate, with its vital industrial sectors, exemplifies Oman's ability to diversify its economy and achieve sustainability in the industrial sector. It contributes to the national economy through investments in energy, petrochemicals, fisheries, food industries, and traditional industries reflecting Omani heritage. South Al Sharqiyah Governorate's unique geographical location connects Asian, African, and European markets, making it a focal point in global supply chains. With a modern road network and advanced seaports like Sur Port and Sur Industrial Area, the governorate significantly enhances trade and industry. In recent years, the governorate has seen remarkable expansion in industrial projects, playing a major role in developing the national economy. The governorate office stated that South Al Sharqiyah Governorate is the heart of Omani industry, combining natural resources, a strategic location, and advanced infrastructure to integrate into global supply chains. Investments in heavy, fisheries, manufacturing, and food industries continue to enhance these sectors. Leading industrial sectors in South Al Sharqiyah include heavy industries and energy, with the industrial zone in Sur housing some of Oman's largest projects, contributing to the economy. Oman LNG is a prominent facility exporting gas to global markets, strengthening Oman's position in the energy sector. Fishing and marine industries thrive in South Al Sharqiyah due to its beaches and marine resources, with fish processing factories, canning marine products, and fish feed production. These industries diversify the Omani economy, exporting fish products to global markets. Manufacturing and food industries in South Al Sharqiyah are growing sectors, producing food, dairy products, date processing, baked goods, and beverages to meet local and regional needs. The government supports private sector investments in this field through incentives and facilities. Handicrafts and traditional industries in South Al Sharqiyah reflect Omani heritage, including shipbuilding, textiles, and wooden products, providing economic opportunities for local entrepreneurs and craftsmen, contributing to sustainable economic diversification.
Times of Oman
09-02-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Oman signs agreements for 100 new industrial projects worth OMR1.5bn
Muscat: Oman signs agreements for 100 new industrial projects with an investment volume of nearly OMR1.5 billion in the renewable energy, food and medical industries, air conditioning equipment industries, construction and building, metals and plastics industries, and in several industrial, economic and free zones. The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, celebrated Oman Industry Day, which falls on 9 February every year. The slogan of this year is 'Oman at the Centre of Global Supply Chains'. It reflects the Royal interest attached to this sector due to its vital role in enhancing diversification and spurring economic growth. The ceremony was held under the patronage of HH Sayyid Dr. Fahad bin Al Julanda Al Said, Vice Chancellor of Sultan Qaboos University (SQU), in the presence of Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and some undersecretaries. A number of officials and businessmen in the industrial sector and Omani companies also attended the ceremony. Dr. Saleh bin Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for Commerce and Industry, said that the latest data issued by the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicate an increase in the output of the converting sector by 8.5 percent to reach OMR2.686 billion by the end of September 2024 at constant prices compared to the same period in 2023. He said in his speech that the Global Competitive Industrial Performance Report issued by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) indicates that the Sultanate of Oman achieved third place in the Arab world and 53rd globally, which reflects the acceleration of industrial competitiveness capabilities over the past years. He affirmed that the industrial sector has managed to achieve the targets of the Industrial Strategy 2040 during 2022 and 2023, as OMR3.44 billion was set as a target contribution for converting industries to the GDP for the year 2022. The contribution of this sector witnessed a growth of 19 percent between 2020 and 2023, reflecting the continuous progress towards achieving the goals of the strategy, thanks to the joint cooperation between the public and private sectors, he added. The industrial sector also provided about 26,000 job opportunities for Omanis since 2020, achieving a growth rate of 79 percent compared to 2020, reflecting its prominent role in supporting the national workforce, said Dr. Saleh. Dr. Saleh pointed out that non-oil commodity exports recorded a remarkable increase, reaching about OMR7.5 billion by the end of 2023, compared to OMR3.4 billion by the end of 2020, reflecting the accelerated growth in the industrial performance of the Sultanate of Oman. In his turn, Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) affirmed that the industrial sector enjoys tremendous opportunities for growth, sustainability and empowerment of the private sector in the Sultanate of Oman. He pointed out that the OCCI supports the empowerment of the private sector by anticipating challenges and attracting investments, in addition to empowering the Omani product and raising its competitiveness in local and foreign markets. During the ceremony, three memoranda of understanding (MoUs) were inked. The first one, signed with the International Centre for Industrial Transformation in Singapore, is related to supporting and encouraging factories to adopt the technologies of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR). The second MoU, signed with the Gulf Organization for Industrial Consulting, pertains to providing consultations to establish a center for advanced automation, while the third MoU announced a strategic partnership with the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO). The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion launched, during the ceremony, the service of obtaining the national product identity certificate within the Made in Oman platform. It aims to promote Omani industries and highlight national products. The advanced automation centre was also launched, which aims to develop industrial capabilities to transform Omani industries into leading factories in digital transformation. A programme to qualify certified assessors using the Siri methodology was also launched to ensure that assessments are conducted accurately and professionally by training assessors on the latest methods and tools necessary to assess the readiness of facilities for industrial transformation. The ceremony also saw the announcement of the Certificate Verification Programme (Professional Accreditation), which provides a reliable service to companies to facilitate the process of verifying academic and professional documents. The Ministry also launched the Industrial Sector Enablers Guide, with the aim of enabling partners to identify the opportunities available in the industrial sector in the Sultanate of Oman and how to utilize them. Meanwhile, Abdulaziz bin Ahmed Al Qasmi, Head of the Local Content Office at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, gave a visual presentation in which he reviewed the industry's achievements and contributions in the Sultanate of Oman. Dr. Ahmed bin Khalfan Al Badawi, Director of the Industrial Strategy Implementation and Evaluation Department at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, also gave a visual presentation on the Industrial Observatory and its aspirations. On her turn, Anfal Zaher Al Afani, Head of Markets and Trade Facilitation Department at Oman Logistics Center, gave a visual presentation on supply chain improvement methodologies and how to use connectivity and integration to improve the supply chain to reduce costs and increase efficiency. During the ceremony, a dialogue session was held on supply chains and their importance with the participation of a number of specialists from the public and private sectors. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, held a dialogue session with the Omani industrialists. The session addressed means of enhancing local content and focused on the importance of strengthening supply chains in the industrial sector. They exchanged views on the challenges and opportunities available to Omani companies. It also highlighted how to enhance cooperation among various stakeholders to support sustainable growth in the sector. Gerd Muller, Director-General of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), lauded the Sultanate of Oman's pioneering role in the field of sustainable manufacturing. He pointed out that these efforts reflect Oman's keenness to promote economic and social development in line with the organization's mandate, affirming that Oman has proven its ability to take serious steps towards developing a sustainable industrial sector, making it a role model to be emulated in the region. In his turn, Jesmond Hong, Chief Operating Officer of the International Centre for Industrial Transformation, said that the centre looks forward to strengthening cooperation with the Sultanate of Oman to drive industrial transformation and enable the manufacturing sector to achieve a prosperous future. The centre is a non-profit and independent organisation that aims to promote manufacturing transformation through collaboration with the public and private sectors.
Observer
08-02-2025
- Business
- Observer
Unido to support Oman's green mining, decarbonisation goals
MUSCAT: The United Nations Industrial Development Organization (Unido), a UN agency specialising in assisting countries in economic and industrial development, has pledged to expand cooperation with the Sultanate of Oman in a number of strategic growth sectors, notably green hydrogen and sustainable mining. The announcement comes as UnidoDirector General Gerd Müller arrives in Muscat on a 4-day visit coinciding with the celebration of Oman Industry Day, commemorating the historic visit of the late Sultan Qaboos bin Said to Rusayl Industrial City on Feb 9, 1991. Confirming the visit in a post, the UN agency said: 'Unido Director General Gerd Müller is visiting Oman to further strengthen cooperation and support the country in boosting and diversifying its manufacturing sector.' The visit is set to build on longstanding cooperative ties between Oman and the Vienna-headquartered body spanning, among other areas, institutional strengthening, the mapping of Oman's long-term industrial development, phasing out of ozone-depleting chemicals, and climate change mitigation. Besides delivering the keynote address at official celebrations marking Oman Industry Day, Gerd Müller will also discuss with Omani authorities the implementation of the country's National Manufacturing Strategy 2040, developed with Unido's support to help boost and diversify Oman's industrial base. Significantly, deliberations will also focus on a number of emerging industries of strategic relevance to Oman's long-term growth. They encompass Oman's ambitions to venture into green hydrogen production, decarbonisation of hard-to-abate industries, and sustainable mining activities. Additionally, Unido has committed to supporting Oman in the development of a multi-hazard early warning system to strengthen the country's resilience against climate change impacts. The initiative is proposed to be advanced in collaboration with the Green Climate Fund (GCF), established within the framework of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Considered the world's largest fund of its kind, GCF's objective is to assist developing countries with climate change adaptation and mitigation activities. Both UNIDO and GCF have had important roles in strengthening the long-term capacity of Oman to plan for climate change impacts. In March 2023, the two agencies joined hands with the Environment Authority of Oman and Sultan Qaboos University in the formulation of the National Adaptation Plan and the Climate Change Adaptation Policy, among other objectives.
Observer
08-02-2025
- Business
- Observer
Celebrating Oman Industry Day: A vision for industrial excellence
Oman Industry Day is observed annually on February 9 to highlight the contributions of the industrial sector to the nation's economy. This day celebrates the progress of Oman's multifaceted manufacturing, mining, and industrial activities while fostering creativity, investment, and sustainability. First celebrated in 1991 during the reign of Sultan Qaboos—May God bless his soul—Oman Industry Day commemorates his visit to Rusayl Industrial Estate on February 9, 1991. This event marked the government's commitment to industrial development and laid the foundation for discussions on policy frameworks, industry challenges, and opportunities for growth. Oman Industry Day aims to attract investment from both local and foreign sources into industries while encouraging economic diversification to reduce dependence on oil revenues. The event fosters industrial creativity and the integration of new technologies while promoting sustainability practices and environmental responsibility within industries. The industries emphasized during Oman Industry Day include petrochemicals, food processing, and cement production. Mining and minerals, such as copper, limestone, and gypsum, also play a crucial role. The event highlights the importance of free zones and logistics, renewable energy and green technology, as well as entrepreneurship and SME-driven industrial development. Oman Industry Day features government announcements on new industrial policies and initiatives. It facilitates networking among businesses and investors through industrial and economic forums. Seminars and workshops focus on emerging technologies, sustainability, and industrial innovation. Furthermore, awards and recognition are given to outstanding contributors to Oman's industry. Oman Vision 2040 emphasizes industrial diversification and development, incorporating public-private partnerships (PPP) to encourage private sector participation. Additionally, the free zones and industrial estates in Souar, Duqm, and Salalah stimulate trade and industrial investment. Oman Industry Day plays a significant role in shaping the country's industrial landscape, integrating efforts toward a more diversified and sustainable economy. Importance of Oman Industry Day Oman Industry Day underscores the importance of industrial development in economic advancement and diversification. The event plays a vital role in promoting innovation, sustainability, and investment in Omani industries. Economic Diversification & Growth: Oman Industry Day aligns with Vision 2040 by reducing oil dependency through industrial expansion. It focuses on increasing investment in manufacturing, mining, logistics, and renewable energy while enhancing industrial productivity and sustainability. Attracting Investment & Business Opportunities: The event promotes Oman's industrial base to local and foreign investors, attracting public-private partnerships for industrial growth. Special incentives such as tax exemptions and grants encourage investment in free zones and industrial estates, including Sohar, Duqm, and Salalah. Fostering Creativity and Technology: Oman Industry Day encourages the adoption of modern technologies, automation, and AI in industries. It also prioritizes research and development (R&D) in high-value industrial products and supports eco-friendly initiatives for green energy production. Job Creation & Workforce Development: The event increases opportunities for local Omanis within industrial sectors. It enhances SME involvement and promotes vocational training programs to develop a skilled workforce suited to the evolving industrial landscape. Initiatives and Strategies for New Policies: Oman Industry Day serves as a platform for government policy announcements, stimulating discussions on industrial challenges and solutions. It fosters collaboration between the government, private sector, and investors. Oman's Economic Vision & International Trade Strategy: The event enhances Oman's global industrial reputation, supports export-oriented industries, and strengthens the country's participation in international trade and industrial exhibitions. Recognizing Excellence in Industry: Oman Industry Day rewards outstanding industrial enterprises and entrepreneurs. By documenting success stories, it motivates businesses to uphold high-quality standards and global competitiveness. Plans for an Oman Industry Hall of Fame will further acknowledge leading contributors to industrial development. Oman Industry Day underscores the importance of enhancing industrial zones and free zones by constructing new facilities and modernizing existing ones. Improving supply chain efficiency and streamlining industrial licensing processes will further support industrial growth. Enhancement Strategies for Oman Industry Day To maximize the benefits of Oman Industry Day, several key strategies can be implemented: • Expand Industry Participation – Include emerging sectors such as renewable energy, AI, and biotechnology. • Strengthen Public-Private Partnerships (PPP) – Collaborate with private corporations to formulate and implement industrial policies. • Increase SME Participation – Develop new policies to create opportunities for small and medium enterprises (SMEs). • Attract International Investors – Encourage global business delegations and trade partnerships to enhance economic development. • Host International Summits – Organize global industrial conferences to foster economic cooperation and technological advancements. • Offer Special Investment Incentives – Announce tax exemptions, grants, and subsidies to encourage industrial growth. • Promote B2B Meetings & Trade Exhibitions – Strengthen partnerships through dedicated business networking events. • Adopt Advanced Technologies – Promote industrial automation, AI, IoT, and smart manufacturing initiatives. • Establish Industrial R&D Centers – Invest in research hubs and innovation-driven projects. • Encourage Sustainable Industrial Practices – Support green industries, energy-efficient production, and environmental compliance. • Strengthen Workforce Development – Introduce vocational training programs, internships, and apprenticeships for industrial careers. • Enhance Global Marketing & Branding – Advertise Oman Industry Day through social media, industry magazines, and televised broadcasts. • Host Webinars & Conferences – Invite international experts to discuss industry trends and investment opportunities. • Develop an Official Oman Industry Day Website – Provide comprehensive information on industrial opportunities, events, and policies. Oman Industry Day is a crucial event that drives industrial growth, economic diversification, and sustainability. It serves as a platform to address industry challenges, introduce new policies, and celebrate achievements in industrialization. By continually enhancing its scope and impact, Oman Industry Day will remain a key driver of national economic progress.
