Muscat – Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), in cooperation with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, launched a programme called ‘Partnership and Integration’ on Tuesday.

The programme aims to overcome the obstacles impeding the private sector’s development in Oman. It is strategically aligned with the Oman Vision 2040 objective of nurturing a dynamic and forward-looking private sector essential for achieving a diversified and sustainable economy.

The programme’s launch was attended by ministers, including H E Qais bin Mohammed al Yousuf, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion; H E Said bin Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy; H E Dr Mahad bin Said bin Ali Ba’owain, Minister of Labour; and Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of OCCI.

Sheikh Faisal’s address to the gathering highlighted the challenges faced by the private sector and outlined potential solutions to improve its performance. He reiterated OCCI’s dedication to revising legislations and policies to enhance the business climate, encourage high-value investments, and bolster the national economy. “The chamber strives to facilitate dialogue between the business community and government bodies, fostering an ecosystem where the private sector can thrive,” he said.

H E Yousef acknowledged the critical nature of the solutions presented at the meeting for boosting the sector’s competitiveness, tailored to meet its specific needs. “Our ministry is fully committed to streamlining processes, enhancing services and cultivating a competitive business landscape to empower the private sector, thereby generating new business ventures, attracting quality investments and promoting exports,” he stated.

H E Saqri, Minister of Economy, highlighted the programme’s goal to integrate and reinforce the national economy. “It aims to simplify the business environment and broaden production capacities with skilled national workforce capable of competing on a global stage.” He encouraged the private sector to leverage the opportunities presented by government initiatives and economic projects, especially those in Special Economic Zone at Duqm, free zones and other targeted projects.

On his turn, H E Dr Ba’owain stressed the importance of cooperation between the public and private sectors in creating a vibrant business atmosphere, crucial for the latter’s sustainability and growth. “Such collaboration is key to strengthening the private sector’s contribution to the national economy and its role in employing the Omani workforce. Partnership between government and private entities is vital for enhancing economic development and establishing a business-friendly environment in Oman,” he stated.