Procedural and technical meetings were held in New Delhi between the Sultanate of Oman and the Republic of India as part of ongoing work to activate the free trade agreement between the two friendly countries.

The meetings examined ways to strengthen economic, trade and investment cooperation to serve mutual interests and support growth in trade between Oman and India.

The meetings addressed  technical and regulatory areas linked to implementation mechanisms for the agreement. These include facilitating customs procedures, simplifying the movement of goods and services, improving trade flows, harmonising technical and health requirements, as well as exploring investment opportunities and industrial and logistics partnerships.

Both countries highlighted the importance of accelerating completion of the technical and procedural requirements needed for the agreement to enter into force. This would open up prospects for economic cooperation, with increased trade volumes and enhanced mutual investment. Priority sectors include food security, manufacturing, renewable energy, modern technologies, the logistics sector, fisheries and agriculture.

The discussions also covered opportunities for Omani and Indian companies to benefit from preferential advantages under the agreement. These include improved market access, reduced customs duties, greater supply chain integration, improved competitiveness of national products and expanded investment opportunities for the private sector in both countries.

Participants noted that relations between Oman and India are witnessing rapid growth across economic and commercial fields. This is supported by long standing historical ties and a shared desire to develop a strategic partnership that aligns with global economic changes and promotes sustainable development.

The meetings concluded with an agreement to continue technical coordination to complete the implementation requirements of the agreement. They also agreed to strengthen communication between relevant entities and the private sector to ensure maximum benefit from the agreement and support the economic diversification objectives of Oman and the future vision of both countries for economic cooperation.