Oman's non-oil exports grow by 10.3% , top OMR5 billion

Oman Saturday 31/January/2026 15:14 PM
By: Times News Service
Oman's non-oil exports grow by 10.3% , top OMR5 billion

Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman’s non-oil exports recorded strong growth in 2025, reflecting the positive transformation of the national economy in line with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion continues to implement programs and policies to support export development, enhance the presence of Omani products in regional and global markets, diversify national income sources, and strengthen Oman’s position as a reliable trading partner.

Official statistics show that the value of Omani non-oil exports reached approximately OMR 5.002 billion, achieving a 10.3 percent growth by the end of September 2025 compared to the same period in 2024. This growth reflects improvements in the competitiveness of national products and successful efforts to access new markets.

The growth was driven by an integrated support system including external promotion, simplified procedures, participation in international exhibitions, and initiatives to improve product quality and global competitiveness.

At the sectoral level, base metals and their products led non-oil exports with a value exceeding OMR 1 billion, followed by chemical industry products at nearly OMR 658 million, and electrical appliances and equipment at approximately OMR 460 million. Exports were distributed across diverse markets, primarily GCC countries, as well as Asian, African, and European markets, reflecting the diversification of goods and destinations.

Ibtisam bint Ahmed Al Farouji, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion for Investment Promotion, said the strong performance of non-oil exports demonstrates the effectiveness of national policies to enhance economic competitiveness. She noted that the Ministry is developing an integrated system to support exports, empower national products, raise the readiness of Omani companies, and expand trade partnerships, thereby increasing non-oil exports’ contribution to GDP and advancing economic diversification.

She added that the Ministry focuses on enhancing market access for Omani products through promotional and attraction tools, international exhibitions, trade agreements, and initiatives to build exporter capabilities in line with global market requirements.

Lubna bint Mohammed Al Harthy, Director of the Export Development Department, highlighted the “Oman Exports” initiative launched in February 2025, which represents a qualitative leap in the export support system. The integrated digital platform allows Omani exporters to access market data, consulting services, and connect directly with international importers, facilitating expansion in foreign markets and supporting non-oil export growth.

By the end of September 2025, the platform had registered 365 companies, with 37 applications under process, reflecting growing private sector demand. To raise awareness, the Ministry organized five workshops across Muscat, Dhofar, Al Dakhiliyah, North Al Batinah, and South Al Sharqiyah, introducing the platform’s services and benefits.

In 2025, Oman participated in 17 national and international trade exhibitions under the Omani Products Promotion Committee (OPEX), resulting in confirmed and potential trade deals, agency and distribution contracts, and new connections with importers and trade partners.

To support strategic planning, work is underway on a national strategy for non-oil export development, including market analysis, identification of promising products, and solutions to challenges facing exporters.

Oman Exports also prepared 67 trade and statistical reports during 2025, including specialized market studies and event feasibility assessments, providing decision-makers with accurate data. Additionally, over 20 field visits to factories were conducted, along with signing memoranda of understanding with regional and international entities, enhancing trade partnerships and opening new markets for Omani products.