Latest news with #QaisBinMohammedAlYousef
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oman: Dialogue highlights SMEs role in boosting the economy
MUSCAT: In a move to strengthen collaboration and integration with key stakeholders, the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED) held its 15th dialogue session focused on enhancing opportunities for SMEs in the retail, construction and manufacturing sectors. The session, attended by Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, brought together SMEs owners and stakeholders from across these sectors. It aligns with ASMED's ongoing efforts to improve the business environment and make it more conducive and attractive to SMEs. The discussion aimed to amplify SMEs contributions by encouraging innovation, improving operational efficiency, fostering public-private partnerships and promoting awareness about SMEs as a vital pillar of the national economy. The minister noted, 'Omani companies should not only focus on the local market. We encourage expansion beyond Oman. The ministry supports entrepreneurs through structured, evidence-based decision-making. Moreover, the Ministry of Labour's mandate to employ Omanis excludes those holding entrepreneurship cards.' Key topics addressed included policies, legislation, licensing and support mechanisms that help SMEs develop creative solutions and form strategic partnerships. The session also opened the floor for questions, enabling business owners to share challenges and suggest viable solutions. Oman is working towards a robust industrial future in line with national aspirations. In the past five years, significant milestones have been achieved in the industrial sector. The government is now focused on enhancing the competitiveness of national products, both locally and internationally. Emphasising the importance of local content, the dialogue reinforced its role in developing economic infrastructure and improving the business ecosystem. This drives productivity, boosts sector efficiency and fosters innovation, contributing to long-term economic and financial stability while promoting balanced and sustainable growth. 2022 © All right reserved for Oman Establishment for Press, Publication and Advertising (OEPPA) Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
5 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Oman, Uzbekistan ink deals to expand air links, trade
Tashkent, Uzbekistan – Oman and Uzbekistan have signed agreements to expand air transport rights and strengthen logistical cooperation, aiming to boost trade and investment ties between the two countries. The accords were reached during the fifth session of the Omani-Uzbek Joint Committee held in Tashkent on Friday. Both sides agreed to increase operating rights for airlines, support the re-export of Uzbek products through Omani ports, and enhance cooperation in scientific research and innovation. They also pledged to facilitate exchanges between their chambers of commerce and business delegations. The Omani delegation was led by H E Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, accompanied by H E Wafa bint Jabr al Busaidi, Ambassador of Oman to Uzbekistan. The Uzbek side was headed by Laziz Kudratov, Minister of Investment, Industry and Trade. Talks covered ways to deepen economic and trade relations and expand collaboration in sectors including energy, agriculture, higher education, tourism and culture. Both sides emphasised stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors. During his visit, H E Yousef met Sherzod Shermatov, Minister of Digital Technology of Uzbekistan, and discussed investment opportunities and trade challenges with Uzbek businessmen. He also attended roundtable meetings where investors from both countries reviewed available projects. Omar al Harthy, Senior Investment Analyst at the ministry, delivered a presentation on 'Invest in Oman', highlighting incentives for foreign investors. The Omani delegation held further meetings with representatives of the electronic payment technology, textiles and e-commerce sectors. H E Yousef also met Bakhtiar Saidov, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Uzbekistan, to review existing bilateral agreements and discuss updating them in line with current priorities. The delegation visited the International Exhibition Centre, meeting companies in innovation and industrial technology and viewing new projects by Uzbek institutions. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
Zawya
29-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
$30bln trade target as Oman-Iran bilateral ties deepen
Muscat – Oman and Iran are targeting a sharp increase in bilateral trade, aiming to grow the current volume of US$2bn to US$30bn within three years. The announcement was made during a high-level business meeting held at Al Alam Palace in Muscat, attended by Iranian President Dr Masoud Pezeshkian and Omani and Iranian business leaders. President Pezeshkian called for stronger links between economic corridors and ports in both countries to develop trade and investment cooperation with the aim of increasing the trade volume. He said Iran is ready to work with Oman across economic, scientific and cultural sectors, and emphasised the importance of facilitating financial transfers to support business operations. 'We are committed to building partnerships across multiple sectors and ensuring that the benefits are mutual,' he said, adding that Iran remains focused on promoting security and stability in the region while supporting the broader Muslim community. Qais bin Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, said Oman is working to diversify its economy under the guidance of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik. He encouraged the Iranian delegation to explore opportunities in sectors such as renewable energy, tourism, logistics, food security and industry. 'Trade between Oman and Iran grew by over 50% last year, and the number of Iranian companies operating in Oman rose 70%,' the minister said. He cited the opening of an Iranian biopharmaceutical factory, a petrochemical plant and other industrial projects in Oman as examples of growing cooperation. He also highlighted the Sarooj Complex as a key Omani investment in Iran. Faisal bin Abdullah al Rowas, Chairman of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), said formation of the Omani-Iranian Joint Business Council has helped boost trade exchange and address challenges faced by business leaders in both countries. 'This meeting under the patronage of the leadership sends a clear signal of support for the private sector's role in building durable economic ties,' he said. © Apex Press and Publishing Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
