Oman at World Free Zones Conference

The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones participated in the 11th World Free Zones Organisation Annual International Conference, held under the theme “Zones: Gateways to Global Prosperity, Trade and Sustainable Innovation” in Haikou, Hainan Province, People’s Republic of China.

Participants discussed the future of economic and free zones and their role in promoting global trade and achieving sustainable development amid exceptional global challenges, such as fluctuations in trade policies, climate change, and rapid advances in artificial intelligence and renewable energy technologies.

Oman’s delegation to the conference was headed by Sheikh Dr Ali Alsunaidy, Chairman of the Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones, accompanied by officials from the Special Economic Zone at Duqm and Sohar Free Zone.

In his address during the Ministerial Strategic Meeting held alongside the conference, Dr AlSunaidy highlighted the importance of digital transformation and global economic integration among free zones.

He underscored the role of modern technologies and renewable energy in supporting the growth of clean industries, strengthening supply chains, and facilitating the movement of factories and production inputs between zones and industrial cities.

The Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones is participating in this global conference following its accession to the World Free Zones Organisation. The participation reaffirms Oman’s commitment to strengthening its international presence in economic and investment forums and to exchanging expertise in the development of sustainable and free zones to help attract quality investments and diversify the national economy.