Latest news with #MaroofOman
Muscat Daily
08-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
MoCIIP warns of fake ministerial statement used in online fraud
Muscat – Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) has issued a warning regarding the circulation of a fabricated 'ministerial statement' being used to promote fictitious online stores claiming official registration in Oman. In a statement, the ministry confirmed that it recently detected this fraudulent activity, which aims to mislead consumers by promoting unlicensed e-commerce platforms under the guise of official endorsement. MoCIIP clarified that it has not issued any such statement and urged the public to exercise caution. Consumers are advised to engage only with online stores officially licensed through the Oman Business Platform and verified via the Maroof Oman platform. The ministry also stressed the importance of verifying the contact information provided by online stores, ensuring it matches the data listed in the official commercial register, to avoid falling victim to scams. As part of efforts to regulate and boost the e-commerce sector, MoCIIP issued Ministerial Decision No 499/2023 two years ago outlining comprehensive regulations for online trade in Oman. Under these regulations, individuals who do not have a commercial register can apply for an e-commerce licence electronically, provided they meet certain criteria. Commercial entities must be registered in the commercial registry, while non-Omani investors are permitted to engage in e-commerce in accordance with the Foreign Capital Investment Law. To ensure compliance, MoCIIP holds the authority to take enforcement actions, including fines of up to RO500, temporary suspension of licence, or in severe and repeated violations within a three-year period, permanent revocation of licence and blocking of offending online stores.
Muscat Daily
05-07-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Oman's intensified digitalisation driving economic transformation
Muscat – Oman is intensifying efforts to digitalise business processes and attract investment by expanding the use of smart digital platforms, aimed at streamlining services, boosting local industries and enhancing the country's competitiveness. The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion has introduced a range of platforms supporting investors, entrepreneurs and exporters. These include Oman Business, Invest in Oman, Oman Exports, Made in Oman, Hazm, and Maroof Oman. At the core of this initiative is the Oman Business platform, which enables electronic registration, licensing, intellectual property services, and the management of commercial agencies. The platform integrates with 17 government entities and exchanges data with 35 others, making business procedures more efficient. Since April 2021, over 328,000 automatic licences have been issued, with 89% of commercial activities now licensed without prior approvals. Foreign investors can register and operate via the platform without a residence card, thanks to a facial recognition system that verifies identity using over 140 biometric data points. A simulation tool under the 'Investment Guide' also helps new investors understand the licensing process. The Invest in Oman platform, launched in February 2023, has already received 90 investment applications valued at RO5.38bn. Of these, 43 projects have been localised in key sectors, including health, food security and renewable energy, with a total value of RO2.25bn. The Made in Oman platform promotes local products by awarding the official logo to qualifying manufacturers. Over 5,000 products from 380 factories have been certified since February 2024. The platform connects SMEs to procurement opportunities and strengthens local supply chains. Oman's e-commerce strategy is also gaining ground. The Maroof Oman platform authenticates online stores, boosting consumer trust and growing digital sales. Since its inception, it has seen a 236% increase in registered stores. The ministry has also launched Hazm, a quality assurance platform, listing products that require conformity certificates and linking them with accredited bodies. So far, 333 certificates and nearly 3,800 energy efficiency cards have been issued. To support exporters, the Oman Exports platform – described as the world's first interactive platform dedicated to exporting – provides digital marketing and matchmaking tools for local manufacturers seeking entry into global markets. The Sanad Service Centres network complements these efforts, having completed over 872,000 electronic transactions in 2024 across nearly 920 centres. The network has created more than 2,300 jobs, with women comprising 60% of its workforce. Mubarak bin Mohammed al Dohani According to Mubarak bin Mohammed al Dohani, Director General of Planning at the ministry and Head of the Digital Transformation Team, the platforms are integral to Oman's shift to a knowledge-based economy. He noted that the ministry has fully implemented three e-commerce initiatives outlined in a national plan prepared in line with UNCTAD guidelines. He said digital platforms will serve as 'smart growth engines', enabling the localisation of technology, stimulating innovation, and equipping young Omanis to pursue entrepreneurial ventures. Oman continues to monitor the performance of these platforms, tracking licence issuances and growth in listed products. Dohani noted that linking platforms to inspection and certification processes helps raise product standards and boost confidence among consumers.
Muscat Daily
29-06-2025
- Business
- Muscat Daily
Surge in freelancing as e-commerce grows in Oman
Muscat – The freelancing sector in Oman is witnessing marked growth, in line with global shifts in the labour market and trends in the digital economy. National initiatives aimed at creating sustainable income streams for youth and encouraging entrepreneurship across digital platforms are further accelerating this transformation. Government efforts to build a supportive legislative and technical ecosystem are central to this shift, aligning with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which seeks to establish a diversified and innovation-driven economy. Azza bint Ibrahim al Kindi, Director of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce Department at Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, said e-commerce has become a key area for freelance work. She noted that this growth is being supported by enabling government procedures that allow individuals to legally operate in the space. She highlighted the introduction of the Freelance Business Register, a licensing mechanism allowing Omanis to engage in e-commerce activities for a nominal fee. 'E-commerce requires relatively low operational costs, with no need for a physical storefront. It also gives businesses access to wider markets, both regionally and internationally,' she said. According to Azza, freelance e-commerce ventures are helping raise business awareness and professionalism among Omani youth. The low entry barrier is making it a viable option for many in the community to explore new income sources. The ministry has authorised over 200 commercial activities under freelance licences, developed in coordination with other authorities. These activities are supported through platforms like 'Maroof Oman', which documents and verifies e-stores, strengthening consumer trust and providing legal cover for online businesses. Azza noted that e-commerce is playing an increasingly important role in the digital economy, offering flexible job opportunities, particularly for young people and recent graduates. Fields such as digital marketing, design and software development are seeing steady freelance engagement. Azza bint Ibrahim al Kindi, Director of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce Department Freelancing also enables showcasing of Omani talent in professional and technical areas. 'It expands the scope of economic activity and supports the adoption of modern tools and technologies,' Azza said, adding that this contributes to creating innovative local solutions and services. The director cited approval of the National E-Commerce Plan by the Secretariat General of Council of Ministers as a key milestone. Part of the broader National Digital Economy Programme, the plan outlines development initiatives running from 2022 to 2027. Among these, an initiative to improve institutional capacity in e-commerce, implemented by Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development, has offered training to help local merchants access platforms such as Amazon and Noon. Guidelines have been issued to help SMEs integrate into global supply chains. Additionally, the 'Makin' programme, under Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, is focused on enhancing technical skills in the job market, equipping Omanis with the digital capabilities required for current and future work environments. Azza noted that various government bodies are actively supporting the shift towards digital commerce. 'This sector is shaping the future of business and services. It gives youth the flexibility to test and develop ideas, reducing risks and encouraging innovation,' she said.
Observer
28-06-2025
- Business
- Observer
E-freelancing gains momentum among Omani youth
MUSCAT: Online freelancing is gaining strong traction across the Sultanate of Oman, fuelled by the evolving digital economy and proactive government initiatives that support self-employment and youth empowerment. Aza bint Ibrahim al Kindi, Director of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, noted that e-commerce has become one of the most prominent freelancing sectors. This growth has been supported by streamlined licensing procedures, including the introduction of the 'Freelance Business Register' – a low-cost, regulated framework for individuals to operate legally. She emphasised that e-commerce offers significant advantages: low startup costs, broad consumer reach, and access to regional and global markets. These benefits make it an ideal platform for young Omanis seeking to build sustainable businesses and diversify income streams. Aza bint Ibrahim al Kindi, Director of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion Over 200 commercial activities are now covered by freelance licences, allowing businesses to gain consumer trust through platforms such as 'Maroof Oman,' which authenticates licensed e-stores. Al Kindi highlighted e-commerce's contribution to job creation, especially for graduates and job seekers in marketing, software, and digital design. The sector also showcases Omani talent and innovation, boosting value-added economic activity and modernising the business landscape. She cited the government's National E-Commerce Plan (2022–2027), which includes initiatives like the SME Authority's training programmes for global platforms such as Amazon and Noon. Other initiatives, such as the Ministry of Transport's 'Makin' programme, help upskill Omanis with in-demand technical skills. In conclusion, Al Kindi noted that online freelancing is not just a source of income but a critical stepping stone for entrepreneurship. It allows Omanis to build professional portfolios and networks before launching independent ventures, reinforcing Oman Vision 2040's aspirations for a knowledge-driven, innovative economy. — ONA
Times of Oman
14-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Supervisory Committee for National E-Commerce Plan holds first 2025 meeting
Muscat: The Supervisory Committee for the National E-Commerce Plan convened its first meeting of 2025 at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion headquarters to review progress on the plan's initiatives. Chaired by Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, the meeting included representatives from government entities such as the Oman Investment Authority (OIA), Royal Oman Police (ROP), Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, Central Bank of Oman (CBO), Telecommunications Regulatory Authority (TRA) and Consumer Protection Authority. Dr. Saleh Said Masan, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion's Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry, emphasized the meeting's role in evaluating the plan's implementation, with 73% completion (22 of 30 initiatives) achieved by the end of 2024. The Undersecretary added that the plan focuses on: Supporting e-commerce companies with competitive telecom services; Streamlining e-procurement and business procedures; Enhancing logistics, digital payments, and legal frameworks and raising awareness and skills development. He noted that global e-retail sales reached USD 6 trillion in 2024, reflecting the sector's rapid growth. Locally, Oman issued 9,232 e-commerce licenses and certified 204 stores on the Maroof Oman platform post-Ministerial Decision (499/2023) on regulating e-commerce. Azza Ibrahim Al Kindi, the Ministry's E-Commerce Director, said that these milestones demonstrate accelerated sectoral growth and compliance awareness. The plan—aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and developed with the UNCTAD—aims to position Oman as a regional e-commerce hub by 2027 through strategic digital transformation.
