Shura Council continues discussion on statement of Commerce Minister

Times of Oman

2 days ago

Muscat: For the second consecutive day, the Shura Council continued its discussion on the statement of Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion.
The Council members emphasised the need to intensify efforts and review strategies and policies to enhance the added value of the trade and industry sectors domestically, linking industries to available national resources. They also called for increasing Omanisation rates in the manufacturing sector, given its rapid growth, and stressed the importance of devising a plan to incentivise industrial companies to absorb national talent.
During the session, the members of the Council highlighted the necessity of strengthening incentives and facilities to empower the industrial and commercial sectors. They also proposed establishing a national center to support stalled industrial projects.
Additionally, the members discussed the significance of foreign investment as a solution to economic and social challenges, such as job creation and industrial expansion. They urged the creation of an attractive and flexible investment environment characterised by integration among relevant entities, while addressing obstacles that may hinder foreign investment efforts.
The session also touched on the growing importance of e-commerce in Oman, with a proposal to establish a unified e-commerce portal under the Ministry's supervision to support local sellers and streamline licensing, payment, and delivery services.
These discussions took place during the Council's 14th regular session of the second annual convening (2024-2025) of its 10th term (2023-2027). The session was chaired by Khalid Hilal Al Maawali, Chairman of the Shura Council, in the presence of its members and Sheikh Ahmed Mohammed Al Nadabi, Secretary-General of the Shura Council.