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Lab launched to cut reliance on imports, foster local industries

13 Jan 2025 National lab launched to cut reliance on imports, foster local industries By OUR CORRESPONDENT

Muscat – A two-week ‘National Laboratory for Local Content’ was launched on Monday to strengthen the national economy by reducing reliance on imports and fostering local industries.

The laboratory is a collaborative effort between the Secretariat General of Tender Board and Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit.

The opening ceremony, attended by representatives of 43 government and private entities, was presided over by H E Dr Saeed bin Mohammed al Saqri, Minister of Economy. Over the next two weeks, the laboratory will work to advance strategies for local content, aiming to enhance economic resilience through innovation, technology transfer and skill development.

H E Saqri emphasised the importance of localising industries and services to build a self-reliant economy. “By localising industries, we aim to increase the domestic value added to national projects and reduce reliance on imports,” he said. He highlighted the initiative’s potential to expand Oman’s economy and create sustainable growth across sectors.

The lab seeks to build strong partnerships among government agencies, private enterprises and academic institutions. It aims to optimise shared resources and develop policies that foster local content while driving economic growth. Through discussions with stakeholders, the lab will focus on enhancing competitiveness of Omani industries and ensuring their sustainability.

Discussions will cover key sectors, including energy, minerals, construction, health and defence. The lab’s objectives include promoting the use of local resources, improving capabilities of the national workforce and supporting Omani products in global markets. It also aims to create opportunities for collaboration between local businesses, educational institutions and international partners.

Badr bin Salim al Maamari, Secretary-General of Tender Board, described the initiative as pivotal to Oman’s economic and social development. “The lab will support sustainable development by enabling Omani companies to actively participate in large-scale projects. This will not only enhance their competitiveness but also provide greater employment opportunities for Omanis.”

Outlining the lab’s ambitious goals, Ghalib bin Amer al Hinai, head of National Office for Local Content, said, “The focus will be on boosting direct investments, increasing Omanisation rates and improving the trade balance by substituting imports with locally produced goods.”

Hinai added that the laboratory will work to enhance research and development spending and promote innovation across sectors.

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