5 days ago
Training empowers exporters on customs and tariff procedures
MUSCAT: A specialised training programme on the "Harmonised System and Customs Tariffs" began on Sunday, 27 July 2025, at the Liwa Centre for Science and Innovation. Organised by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion in cooperation with Credit Oman — the government-owned firm specialising in commercial credit insurance — the four-day event runs from July 27 to 30 and is attended by a number of exporters and representatives from Omani exporting companies.
The initiative aims to equip participants with the knowledge needed to navigate modern customs systems effectively and avoid procedural errors that could disrupt trade operations or result in shipment delays and financial penalties.
Ali bin Khamis al Fazari, an expert and trainer in customs procedures, delivered the programme's introductory lecture. He explained the stages and steps involved in customs clearance, offering a comprehensive overview of various types of customs data, taxes applied to goods, and the different categories of approved customs exemptions.
Ahmed bin Hamdan al Farsi, Media and Marketing Specialist at Credit Oman, gave a visual presentation outlining the company's role in supporting Oman's national export ecosystem. He highlighted the importance of credit insurance as a strategic tool for Omani exporters to reduce commercial risks, allowing them to sell goods both locally and internationally with greater assurance and protection against buyer defaults or non-payment.
Al Farsi also elaborated on the primary categories of risks covered by Credit Oman, including commercial risks such as non-payment by buyers or financial insolvency, as well as non-commercial risks resulting from government-imposed restrictions in importing countries or sudden political and economic events.
Further, the programme addressed ways to access international markets and showcased Credit Oman's range of insurance products. These include local credit insurance for domestic sales, export credit insurance for overseas markets, and the "Multiple Buyers" policy, which offers comprehensive coverage for a group of clients under a single contract.
This training initiative reflects the Ministry's ongoing efforts to boost exporters' awareness of customs regulations and procedural requirements. It aims to streamline export and import activities, enhance compliance with both local and international standards, and strengthen the capacity of Omani companies to handle customs-related challenges and adapt to changes in the global trading environment.