Muscat-  Oman and Uzbekistan are working to translate growing economic relations into concrete trade, investment and industrial projects, with the two sides exploring opportunities to expand trade, improve market access and strengthen logistics connectivity.

The discussions took place during a meeting between H E Anwar bin Hilal Al Jabri, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and H E Laziz Kudratov, Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade of the Republic of Uzbekistan.

The two sides reviewed measures to increase bilateral trade, diversify traded products and facilitate market access for Omani and Uzbek companies. They also discussed connecting exporters with buyers and importers and addressing issues related to standards, certifications and customs procedures.

A key focus was the proposed preferential trade agreement between the two countries. The sides discussed accelerating technical work on product coverage, tariffs and rules of origin. They also reviewed updating the agreement on the promotion and protection of mutual investments to create a supportive environment for investors and broaden economic cooperation.

Industrial cooperation featured prominently, with discussions on developing joint manufacturing projects based on market demand and investment requirements. Both sides stressed the importance of direct communication between companies to identify commercially viable projects.

Logistics and connectivity were also discussed, including opportunities to leverage Oman’s ports to develop shipping routes and facilitate the movement of goods between the two countries.

The sides also discussed building on the direct Muscat-Tashkent air link to support trade and investment and expand market access.

Private sector participation was highlighted, including export-oriented production opportunities in Oman’s economic and free zones. The two sides discussed establishing a business council and organising a business forum to present investment opportunities and connect companies and investors with potential partners.

The talks also focused on preparing practical economic outcomes ahead of the sixth session of the Omani-Uzbek Joint Intergovernmental Committee, to be held in Muscat.

Both sides stressed the importance of identifying priority projects and establishing clear follow-up mechanisms to strengthen trade, investment, industrial and logistics cooperation