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WT/TPR/W/201  
25 January 2022  
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Trade Policy Review Body    
 
*In Original language only/ En langue originale seulement /En el idioma original solamente . 
  
OMAN 
DRAFT MINUTES  OF THE MEETING* HELD ON 17 AND 19 NOVEMBER 2021  
Delegations are invited to submit factual corrections, if any, on their own statement to the 
Secretariat ( Mrs Daniela Salas : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , or to  tprd@wto.org ) no later 
than 8 February  2022. 
 
Organe d'examen des politiques commerciales  
 
OMAN 
PROJET DE COMPTE RENDU DE LA RÉUNION* TENUE LES 17 AND 19 NOVEMBRE 2021  
Les délégations sont invitées à soumettre  leurs éventuelles corrections factuelles concernant leurs 
propres déclarations au Secrétariat ( Mme Daniela Salas  : danielamariana.salas@wto.org , ou 
tprd@wto.org ) le 8 février 2022  au plus tard.  
 
Órgano de Examen de las Políticas Comerciales  
 
OMÁN 
PROYECTO DE ACTA DE LA REUNIÓN* CELEBRADA LOS DÍAS 17 Y 19 DE NOVIEMBRE DE 2021  
Las delegaciones pueden enviar a la Secretaría (Sr a. Daniela Salas : 
danielamariana.salas @wto.org , o tprd@wto.org ) a más tardar el  8 de febrero de 2022 las 
correcciones fácticas que deseen introducir en sus propias declaraciones.  
 
 
_______________  
 
  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  TRADE POLICY REVIEW  
OMAN 
DRAFT  MINUTES OF THE MEETING  
Chairperson: H.E.  Dr Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana)  
CONTENTS  
 
1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .......................  3 
2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF OMAN ................................ ..........  5 
3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  ................................ ................................ ..............  11 
4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  ................................ ................................ ........................  15 
5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF OMAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  .............  37 
6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  ................................ .........................  43 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
Note: Advance written questions and additional questions by WTO Members, and the replies provided 
by Oman are reproduced in document WT/TPR/M/418/Add.1 and will be available online at 
http://www.wto.org/english/tratop_e/tpr_e/tp_rep_e.htm.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  1  INTRODUCTORY REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
1.1.  The third Trade Policy Review of Oman was held on 17 and 19 November 2021 . The 
Chairperson, H.E. Dr  Athaliah Lesiba Molokomme (Botswana)  welcomed the delegation of Oman , 
headed by H.E. Mr Qais bin Mohammed A l Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment 
Promotion;  H.E Dr Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry ; H.E. Ambassado r 
H.E. Mr Idris Al Khanjari, Permanent Representative of Oman  to the WTO; the rest of the delegation; 
and the discussant, H.E. Ambassador Mujtaba Piracha  (Pakistan) . 
1.2.  The Chairperson was pleased that, in addition to physical presence, the meeting also benef ited 
from the Interprefy online connection, allowing for a wider participation of the Membership, in 
particular of officials who could not make the journey from Muscat given the current circumstances.  
1.3.  The Chairperson recalled the purpose of TPRs and the m ain elements of procedures for the 
meeting. The report by Oman  is contained in document WT/TPR/G/ 418, and that of the WTO 
Secretariat in document WT/TPR/S/ 418. 
1.4.  Questions by the following delegations were submitted in writing before the deadline:  Iceland; 
the European Union; Brazil; Canada; Singapore; the United States; Israel; the Kingdom of Saudi 
Arabia; and India . The following delegations submitted written questions after the deadline:  China; 
Thailand; and Turkey.  
1.5.  At the time of its previous Review in 20 14, Oman had experienced a high GDP growth rate, 
and have had weathered well the global economic and financial crisis. Members had commended 
Oman's relatively open trade and investment regime, with generally low tariffs, and few non -tariff 
barriers. Member s also had applauded Oman's firm commitment to the multilateral trading system.  
1.6.  During the review period, Oman had faced a double challenge from low oil prices and the 
COVID -19 pandemic. Oman's economy grew to a peak in 2016 at a rate of 5.1% before it began a 
sharp slowdown in 2017. The economy contracted by 0.8% in 2019, and by a further 6.4% in 2020. 
As vaccine rollout gradually restored domestic activity along with the recovery of external demand, 
the economy is expected to grow by 2.5% in 2021.  
1.7.  In the wake of the COVID -19 crisis, Oman had adopted trade facilitation measures to ease the 
disruption. These measures included the practice of "direct" imports from the country of origin. 
Members have showed great interest in knowing the implementation detai ls.   
1.8.  As has been recalled in the previous Review, diversifying the economy away from hydrocarbons 
has remained a challenging priority for Oman; the narrow economic, export, and fiscal base could 
have exposed the Sultanate to vulnerabilities. In this regar d, Members had shown interest in Oman's 
National Program for Enhancing Economic Diversification (a.k.a. the Tanfeedh Programme).  
1.9.  Resulted from low oil prices during most of the review period, government revenues had 
decreased by two thirds since 2014. Dur ing the review period, new taxes such as value added tax 
(VAT) and excise tax had been introduced to increase revenue. Members were interested in knowing 
more about the implementation of the recently introduced excise tax, especially on carbonate drinks . 
1.10.   Oman's tariff was based on the GCC's common external tariff, with a simple average at 5.5%. 
There were no tariff quotas. All tariff lines were ad valorem and bound. In 2021, there were 26 lines 
carrying rates higher than the corresponding bound rates.  
1.11.   Other areas dr ew Members' attention, as indicated in their advance written questions, include 
Oman's last enactment of the New Foreign Investment Law, and the incentives provided by the New 
Law; state -owned enterprises and the privatization programme; the gove rnment procurement 
regime; the Omanization policy; SPS measures on agri -food products; intellectual property 
protection, as well as women empowerment.  
1.12.   Oman  received 243 advance written questions from 12 delegations for this review, out of 
which 209 were se nt within the established deadline, covering a broad range of topics. Prior to this 
meeting, Oman had already provided written replies to most these questions and the Chairperson 
was looking forward to hearing Oman's updates on these issues during the two -day meeting . WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  1.13.   This meeting was a  good opportunity for Members to discuss in greater detail issues of interest 
to them and of systemic importance to the multilateral trading system. It was also an opportune 
moment for Oman to update the Membership on the imp act of COVID -19 on its economy and 
measures it ha d taken in response. The Chairperson was looking fo rward to a fruitful exchange.  
1.14.   The Chairperson closed her introductory remarks by wishing Oman a very successful third 
Trade Policy Review.  
 
  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  2  OPENING STATEMENT BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF OMAN ( H.E. MR QAIS BIN 
MOHAMMED AL YOUSEF ) 
2.1.  On behalf of the Sultanate's delegation, I should like to thank our Chairperson H .E. Ambassador 
Dr Molokomme, Permanent Representative of Botswana to the WTO, as well as today's discussant, 
H.E. Ambassador Dr Piracha, Pakistan's Permanent Representative to the WTO. We welcome their 
invaluable contribution.  
2.2.  Special thanks go to Mr Alfaro, Director of the WTO Trade Policies Review Division and his team 
for their outstanding efforts and support during this exercise period.  
2.3.  I would also like to thank all WTO Members who have submitted questions and comments and 
delegations attending this morning's event. This reaffirms your interest in the development of Oman 
and its trade and  investment policies.  
2.4.  It is also important to acknowledge and thank my colleague H.E.  Dr Saleh Said Masan, 
Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry  at the Oman's Ministry of Commerce, Industry and 
Investment Promotion , and the O man's Mission to the WTO for  its dedication in making this exercise 
successful despite the ongoing challenges of the COVID -19 pandemic.  
2.5.  We also extend our congratulations to H .E. Dr Ngozi Okonjo -Iweala on her appointment earlier 
this year as WTO's Director  General. Oman looks forward  to working constructively with WTO 
members under the leadership of the newly elected Director  General.  
2.6.  On a different note, I would like to share with you our joy that this week's WTO Trade Policy 
Review coincides with Oman's National Day, celebrating as we do tomorrow the 51st anniversary of 
the Renewed Renaissance.  
2.7.  Indeed, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to His late Majesty Sultan Qaboos 
bin Said, the father of our nation, who sadly passed away 10 January  2020 under wh om Oman 
began its renaissance, achieving tremendous social and economic progress and development.  
2.8.  Today, His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik builds on this remarkable legacy, leading Oman 
on its renewed renaissance journey of development in peace and pro sperity. As a nation, we move 
forward with purpose along with strong and active faith.  
Trade Policy Review Introduction  
2.9.  The Trade Policy Review mechanism is one of the WTO's most successful initiatives, helping 
achieve transparency and greater understandi ng of Members' trading policies and practices and the 
impact these have on the multilateral trading system. Reviews such as this lead to a smoother 
functioning of the multilateral trading system.  
2.10.   The reports by Oman and by the WTO Secretariat are before t he distinguished delegates. 
They cover in a comprehensive fashion information on the Sultanate's economic, trade and 
investment policies.  
2.11.   During the period under review, Oman has continued to implement its trade policies 
consistently with its WTO obligati ons, maintaining an open, free and transparent economy.  
2.12.   Since our last TPR in 2014, the global economy has faced a number of new challenges, in 
particular, COVID -19 pandemic . Despite the devastating impact of the pandemic, Oman's public and 
private sector s have shown great resolve and ingenuity, and stand together, committed to building 
a revived, rejuvenated, resilient, digitally driven economy.  
2.13.   Under the wise leadership and guidance of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, and as part 
of the new State Ba sic Law, the Sultanate deploys a trade policy based on economic openness.  
Oman: An Overview  
2.14.   Politically stable and strategically located at the nexus of east -west trade routes, Oman has 
a skilled and educated workforce, world -class infrastructure and busi ness-friendly regulatory WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  framework. Equipped for the challenges of the digital economy, we are a competitive nation with a 
range of attractive investment opportunities . 
2.15.   As a matter of fact, Oman with its location, we cover almost 1.9 billion of world's pop ulation 
within four hours -flight from Oman, and with strateg ic location and equipped with a state 
infrastructure of three international ports, four international airports, and all connected with world 
class roads, makes it a good place for starting a busin ess.  
2.16.   With a population of 4.4 million we are a young nation, approximately 26% of our population 
is aged 15 to 29. And of the 28,419 Omanis graduating from higher education in the 2017 -2018 
academic year, 61% were women.  
2.17.   We have a working population of 2 .2 million. And there is evidence of growth in the current 
labour market with as many as 32,000 new jobs set to be created for Omani high school leavers and 
graduates this year.  
2.18.   With regards encouraging entrepreneurship and trade, Oman's SME Development Au thority 
saw the number of registered SMEs rise to 54,804 in June 2021, an increase of 23.2% compared to 
same period last year.  
2.19.   Oman has an ambitious economy with a trade surplus of US D 7.3 billion as of the end of June 
2021. After a challenging 2020, our non-oil exports were valued at US D 6.2 billion in the first half 
of 2021 compared to US D 3.6 billion end of June 2020. Growth drivers were mineral and chemical 
products, base metals and prepared foodstuff and beverages. Our total GDP at current market pric es 
in 2020 was US D 72.6 billion .  
Oman Vision 2040  
2.20.   Guiding our economy and economic development is Oman Vision 2040. Launched in January 
of this year, this is an ambitious development strategy that identifies 12 national priorities covering 
the entire spectrum of Omani life.  
2.21.   These include creating a stron g administrative and regulatory framework that facilitates job 
creation, in addition to investment and business growth that are central to building new sustainable 
infrastructure.  
2.22.   Citizen well -being through healthcare and education and ensuring fair distri bution of 
development gains across the governorates are other key goals.  
2.23.   Oman Vision 2040 also aims to ensure that protecting the nation's natural resources and 
unique environment requirements are balanced with the Sultanate's economic growth.  
2.24.   We are proud  of this action -oriented plan designed to chart a new, bold and sustainable future 
for Oman.  
2.25.   Oman Vision 2040 targets several economic indicators including a commitment to raise real 
GDP per capita by 90% and real GDP growth by 5% annually over the course of the next 20 years.  
2.26.   Looking to enhance the contribution of foreign direct investment to GDP by 10%, Oman Vision 
2040 envisions our share of non -oil activities to grow to more than 90% of GDP and contribute 40% 
to job creation by the private sector.  
2.27.   Priority sectors include , but are not limited , to manufacturing ; logistics ; fisheries  and 
aquaculture; tourism;  mining ; and the low carbon economy.  
Manufacturing  
2.28.   Manufacturing is to play a significant role in Oman's economy with its GDP contribution 
projected  to rise from 10.7% in 2021 to 15% by 2040.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  2.29.   Madayn, the national entity overseeing Oman's network of industrial estates saw total 
investment in its eight industrial estates reach US D 17.5 billion in 2020 . We are l ooking forward the 
2021-2040 Industrial St rategy which envisages an annual growth rate of 5.3% at constant prices.  
Logistics  
2.30.   Oman's National Logistics Strategy 2040 , launched in 2015 , has led to the implementation of 
several initiatives from the WTO's Trade Facilitation Agreement, helping further  facilitate 
international trade.  
2.31.   Another efficiency initiative is the Directorate General of Customs' Bayan digital platform also 
launched in 2015, which integrates government services into a single electronic window allowing 
traders to submit electronic documentation to Customs officials.  
2.32.   The system has reduced the Sultanate's import clearance times to an average of seven hours 
and the time taken to complete export documentation procedures through the same platform has 
also been reduced to seven hours.  
2.33.   In fact, Oman has ranked top of the GCC in the World Bank's Ease of Doing Business - Trading 
Across Borders Index five years in a row.  
Fisheries and Aquaculture  
2.34.   Fisheries and aquaculture remain key to Oman's diversification strategy. The government's 
dual a im is to boost food security while increasing exports where possible.  
2.35.   In 2020, Oman Investment Authority restructured state -owned fisheries enterprises, merging 
Blue Waters, Al Wusta Fishery Industries and Oceanic Shrimp Aquaculture under the new umbrella  
Fisheries Development Oman.  
2.36.   Fresh and frozen fish landings at numerous locations along the Sultanate's 3,165  km coastline 
totalled 580,240  tons in 2019, up from 279,160  tons in 2016 , representing an increase of 107%.  
Mining  
2.37.   Mining is also a government pr iority. Established in 2014 to regulate the sector, the Public 
Authority for Mining was merged with the newly created Ministry of Energy and Minerals in August 
2020. 
2.38.   The 2019 Law of Mineral Wealth contains provisions relating to exploration and expropriation 
activities, as well as the types of permits and concession agreements available.  
2.39.   The law increased the minimum mining license period from one year to five years a nd 
introduced flexible royalties.  
2.40.   Following the law's publication, in February 2020 the government announced 110 new mining 
blocks for exploration and investment and issued new licenses to several companies.  
Low Carbon Economy  
2.41.   Woven throughout Oman Visio n 2040 are the government's ESG ambitions, making it the 
Sultanate's ESG blueprint.  
2.42.   In accordance with Oman Vision 2040 and galvanized by the Paris Agreement and more 
recently the COP26 Summit, Oman looks to embrace the low -carbon economy. Indeed, the choices 
we make today will shape our trajectories for decades to come.  
2.43.   Since the launch of Oman's National Energy Strategy in 2015, the Sultanate has embarked 
on a range of green energy projects with the goal of generating 30% of our electricity from 
renew ables by 2030.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  2.44.   Also in 2019, a consortium of international companies secured financing for the 500  MW solar 
photovoltaic IPP at Ibri - Oman's biggest solar PV project. The Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank 
loaned US D 60 million of the US D 400 million t otal amount, heralding AIIB's first renewable energy 
financing in Oman and the region.  
2.45.   A further example of Oman's ambitions in the low carbon economy is Hyport Duqm - a 500  MW 
green hydrogen plant slated for construction on the Special Economic Zone at D uqm.  
2.46.   Hyport Duqm will be established on land allocated by SEZAD for renewable energy projects, 
covering an area of 150 km2. 
2.47.   Hyport Duqm will also significantly contribute to the decarbonization of Oman's chemical 
industry, as well as provide green hydroge n and derivatives such as green ammonia to customers 
in Europe and Asia.  
2.48.   In August this year, the Ministry of Energy and Minerals in partnership with 13 government 
agencies, oil and gas operators, educational and research institutions and ports formed Hy -Fly, a 
national hydrogen alliance which will work to support and facilitate the production, transport, 
domestic use and export of clean hydrogen.  
Public -Private Partnership and Privatization  
2.49.   Oman has long recognized the private sector has the potential to a dd considerable value in 
the delivery and financing of services through public -private partnerships.  
2.50.   Modelled on international best practices, and since its launch in 2019, Oman's Public -Private 
Partnership Law has enhanced the Sultanate's appeal as a comp etitive investment destination in 
areas such as waste -to-energy, transport, ports, healthcare, education , renewable energy , and 
tourism sector .  
2.51.   Given Oman's successful track record of privatization in the electricity and power sectors , one 
stretching back  as far as 1996 , we look to drive for further privatization and in doing so create a 
private sector empowered to play a more influential role in the development of the national economy.  
2.52.   To this end a new Privatization Law was issued in July 2019 in tandem  with the  Public-Private 
Sector Partnership Law.  
Investment attraction  
2.53.   The investment regime is another priority area for Oman's economic development. As a 
matter of conscious policy, the Sultanate actively promotes both domestic and foreign investment 
to enhance economic growth and development.  
2.54.   FDI in Oman end of Q2 2021 stood at US D 42.3 billion up from US D 39 billion for the same 
period in 2020.  
2.55.   In 2019, the Foreign Capital Investment Law was introduced which allows foreign ownership 
of up to 100% in al most all Omani economic sectors. This law has been designed to promote foreign 
capital investment in sectors including manufacturing, logistics, mining, tourism, fisheries, IT, 
healthcare, and the low carbon economy.  
2.56.   Further facilitating investment in Oman  is Invest Easy portal introduced in 2013. This is the 
Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion's one -stop-shop portal for registering 
new businesses, reducing procedures and time to complete investor transactions.  
2.57.   Today, via Invest Easy, i nvestors can obtain approval for more than  88% economic activities , 
issuing one single document that includes all licenses and approvals from ten leading authorities  
within minutes .  
2.58.   A further demonstration of Oman's strong commitment to opening up new rou tes for 
investment in the wealth of opportunities presented by Oman Vision 2040 is the Investor Residency 
Program, launched in September.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  2.59.   The program offers two extended residency options through real estate and commercial 
investment on a renewable five an d ten-year basis.  
2.60.   We understand the effects of the pandemic on trade and investment will linger, and businesses 
are likely to remain cautious in committing capital to new overseas productive assets. And we know 
that our agility in responding to the new dem ands of a post COVID -19 world, continuing to remove 
layers of bureaucracy, for example, will be critical to our continuing and future success.  
Fiscal reforms  
2.61.   A series of reforms were undertaken between 2014 and 2019 introduced to support fiscal 
consolidat ion.  
2.62.   Going forward, the Government targets primary fiscal balance by 2024 and will continue to 
pursue macroeconomic stability through a combination of policies including the implementation of 
value -added tax which came into force April 2021, amendments to  existing taxes and continuing 
efforts to improve the domestic business environment.  
2.63.   For example, announced in June 2020, Oman Investment Authority was established by 
merging the State General Reserve Fund, Oman Investment Fund and the government's owners hip 
in all state -owned enterprises. As of June 2021, there were 29 companies in which OIA holds more 
than 40% shares.  
Medium -Term Fiscal Plan 2020 -24 and 10th Five -Year Development Plan 2021 -25 
2.64.   Complementing Oman Vision 2040 is the Medium -Term Fiscal Plan 2020-2024 along with the 
10th Five -Year Development Plan 2021 -2025.  
2.65.   The Medium -Term Fiscal Plan has been developed as a holistic framework based on five 
pillars:  support economic growth; diversify and enhance government revenues; rationalize 
government exp enditure and drive efficiency; enhance the social safety net; and strengthen public 
financial management.  
2.66.   The government will be periodically updating the Medium -Term Fiscal Plan based on changing 
macroeconomic and fiscal conditions and progress made.  
Government Response to COVID -19 – Economic Stimulus Plan  
2.67.   Announced in March this year , as a result of the pandemic, the Government, as a way of 
boosting the economy, launched the Economic Stimulus Plan which offers interest -free emergency 
loans, tax and fe e reductions and waivers, the flexibility to pay taxes in instalments  and establishes 
a Job Security Fund to support citizens who lost jobs during the pandemic.  
2.68.   The plan reduces land rents on the Special Economic Zone at Duqm and Madayn industrial 
estates  by 25% for the period 1 January 2020 - 31 December 2022 and provides for a 50% reduction 
in fees for environmental licenses renewed in 2021.  
2.69.   Also contained in the Economic Stimulus Plan is provision for foreign companies to own land 
over 5,000  m2 or leas ed land that is either commercial or commercial -residential, tourism or industry 
related.  
2.70.   I would like to point out that the Economic Stimulus Plan is a direct result of conversations 
held with local as well as international businesses.  
2.71.   As a result of fi scal measures taken and a relative rise in oil prices, in October, S&P Global 
Ratings revised Oman's rating in outlook to positive from stable. The credit rating agency also 
affirmed the country's 'B+/B' long and short -term foreign and local currency sover eign credit ratings.  
2.72.   Moody's Investor Service also has changed the outlook on Oman's credit rating to stable from 
negative and affirmed its rating at Ba3.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  International Trade Policy  
2.73.   I should now like to focus on developments in Oman's international trade p olicy. The 
Sultanate's trade policy is rooted in the principles and rules of the multilateral trading system. As an 
ancient trading nation, Oman is conscious of and recognizes the importance of a rule -based 
international trading system.  
2.74.   Since its accession to the WTO in November 2000, Oman's trade policy has conformed, in 
both letter and spirit, to the pri nciples and rules of the WTO. Our trade regime is free and liberal, 
transparent, and business -friendly.  
2.75.   The broad objectives of Oman's trade policy can be summarized as: expanding foreign trade 
resulting in the Sultanate's economic development; increasing  the growth of tradable goods and 
services;  securing greater international market access for Omani goods and services;  growing 
employment opportunities for Omanis;  ensuring the availability of goods and services at reasonable 
prices in the domestic market;  protecting the interests of consumers; and raising the national living 
standard.  
2.76.   Oman has a simple, uncomplicated tariff regime and tariffs remain an instrument of Oman's 
trade policy. These apply to imports from most favoured nation except for imports fr om WTO 
Members with whom Oman has regional trade agreements or free -trade arrangements.  
2.77.   Oman is a genuine believer in the basic principles of the multilateral trading system and strong 
supporter of the WTO.  
2.78.   We reaffirm the principles and objectives set o ut in the Marrakesh Agreement establishing the 
WTO. In this regard, Oman reiterates its commitment to the Doha Development Agenda.  
2.79.   The WTO has stood the test of time and been a force for the expansion and liberalization of 
world trade. However, it needs fu rther strengthening to fulfil its role as a bulwark against 
protectionism.   
2.80.   Oman stands firm to collaborate and ensure the success of MC12 in that it delivers fair, 
meaningful, and tangible outcomes for the entire membership and further enhances the role of the 
WTO.  
2.81.   The interests of developing countries must remain at the heart of the WTO and in any 
negotiations via the Special and Differential Treatment provisions as an integral part of WTO 
agreements.  
2.82.   Oman is a member of the GCC Customs Union and the Pa n-Arab Free Trade Area. We also 
have a free trade agreement with the United States and, as part of the GCC, an FTA with Singapore 
and EFTA member states.  
2.83.   However, Oman believes in the primacy of the multilateral trading system and considers 
regional and p referential trading arrangements as complimentary to the multilateral trading system.  
2.84.   The Sultanate is grateful to the WTO Secretariat and to other international organizations for 
providing all  important technical capacity building and assistance to Omani  officials. However, we 
recognize there is always a need for further training , particularly for government officials to attend 
trade policy courses and when possible to intern at the WTO Secretariat.  
2.85.   To conclude, I thank you, Madam Chairperson, for presid ing over today's session and convey 
my deep appreciation to the distinguished delegates for sparing time to participate in Oman's Trade 
Policy Review.   
  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  3  STATEMENT BY THE DISCUSSANT  
3.1.  I wish to warmly welcome the delegation of the Sultanate of Oman led by H. E. Mr Qais 
Mohammed Al Yousef , Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion who is attending 
this meeting virtually and thank him for the very informative and ins ightful opening  statement, H.E 
Dr Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary for Commerce and  Industry . Ministry of Commerce, Industry 
and Investment Promotion and the Oman Mission in Geneva led by H.E Idris Khanjiri.  
3.2.  I would also like to take this opportunity to congratulate Sultanate of Oman on its 51st National 
Day of the Renaissance, which it celebrates tomorrow, and wish the people of Oman happiness and 
prosperity.  
3.3.  I wish to thank you Chair for your opening remarks and I also wish to convey my thanks to the 
Secretariat for all for their hard work in t his TPR. We know from experience what a hard exercise it 
has been in these exceptional circumstances of the pandemic when physical missions have not been 
possible.  
3.4.  I feel honoured to be the discussant at this Trade Policy Review of the Sultanate of Oman. Our 
two countries share not only maritime borders but a long historic relationship based on brotherhood, 
commerce and a peoples' exchange.  
3.5.  An on a personal note I would tend to concur with people who have alluded to Oman as the 
Switzerland of the Gulf, whic h in my view is not in the least because of its pleasant mountainous 
geography, but its political stability and constancy in the region. The Sultanate which has been 
established 50 years ago, is classified by the World Bank as a high-income country and has an 
impressive track record of political stability1.  
3.6.  For centuries, because of their geographical location, Omanis have been an outward looking 
and a seafaring nation and this has influenced the nation's development and growth even in the 
recent past.  The Government has been on the path of important reforms since 1995 to globalize, to 
liberalize and to diversify its economy as to lessen its dependence on oil and gas. For over 
two decades not Oman has been an active member of the WTO.  
3.7.  The Government's i mpressive journey over the last fifty years cannot be summed up in my 
allocated speaking time. But I will try to the best of my ability to highlight the important steps and 
reforms made, the challenges faced by Government and its way forward.  
3.8.  During the p eriod under review, the Government strategy outlined in its 9th five-year Plan from 
2016 to 2020 was to further enhance its economic diversification . The 10th five-year Plan from 2021 -
2025 is an outset of Oman 2040 vision which focuses on five key sectors which are manufacturing, 
transport and logistics, tourism, fisheries, and mining.  
3.9.  The environment and the geographical location of the country played a role in the choices of 
these five key sectors. Calling Oman just a Gulf State, I believe is a misnomer. Oman sits squarely 
on the Indian Ocean and is endowed with natural resources, has a fairly longish coastal line but is 
surrounded with mountains which limit the availability of arable land.  
3.10.   Policies for the development of SMEs and incentives for internati onal investment were central 
in the diversification of the Omani economy.  
3.11.   A specific body overseeing the development of SME (Riyad)2 was established in 2013 for SMEs 
to access funding and to enhance their competitiveness. For a comprehensive support and 
 
 1 Political Stability and Absence of Violence/Terrorism: Percentil e Rank in Oman was reported at 67.14% 
in 2019, according to the World Bank collection of development indicators .  
2 The Public Authority for the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises (Riyada) was established 
through Royal Decree No. 36/2013 in June 2013 and is headquartered in the Muscat Governorate. Its objectives 
are to develop SMEs by  enabling them to: (i) access funding; (ii) instil a culture of entrepreneurship; (iii) promote 
employment opportunities, especially to young Omanis; (iv) assist entrepreneurs in implementation and 
leadership tasks; (v) enhance competitiveness; and (vi) su pport innovation and economic diversification. To this 
end, Riyada provides training, support, and consulting services. Secretariat Report , page 46 . WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  development of SMEs an additional entity for SMEs dedicated for the young entrepreneurs the Al 
Raffd Fund was put in place. The two entries were merged in 2020.  
3.12.   New regulations entered into force to attract foreign investment, particularly the removal of 
some conditions such as the requirement to partner with a local shareholder and the 30% Omani 
ownership. Numerous incentives are now in place for investors both national and foreign. And to 
further strengthen the business environment, Oman has introduced i ts first anti -monopoly and 
competition protection law.  
3.13.   It is worth noting that despite the importance of the contribution of oil and gas to the GDP 
where it makes 60% of Oman total exports, the continued targeted reforms carried out by the 
Government have  started to pay off, as according to the IMF in 2018 the real non -hydrocarbon GDP 
has increased to 1.5%3. The Secretariat report has also mentioned the increase in the GDP in non -oil 
sector at a rate of 6.1% 4in 2016.  
3.14.   Let me briefly outline the major ac hievements as well as challenges in the five key priority 
sectors during the period under review.  
3.15.   In the manufacturing sector, during the period under review the contribution to the GDP has 
been steady at 10%, while the industries in this sector are mostl y related to oil and gas. Reliance in 
the hydrocarbon manufacturing sector is a challenge due to the volatility and unpredictability of oil 
prices and demands. The government is committed more than ever to move from resource -based 
to capital -intensive and knowledge -driven sector.  
3.16.   Transport and logistics are one of main focus of the Government for economic diversification, 
where Oman aims to be a top  10 global transport hub. An important investment program is in place 
to improve and increase the capacity of  its networks which are not yet fully developed. To further 
support development in this sector, Oman has fully implemented all of its Trade Facilitation 
Agreement commitments since 2020. This is indeed a remarkable achievement.  
3.17.   In the tourism sector, the g rowth registered during the review period was impressive. The 
contribution was at 2.3% of GDP in 2020 and the Government aims to increase this contribution 
further to 6%. However, the pandemic has set -back this industry globally.  
3.18.   In Fisheries, where Oman h as a large coastal line, it is a net exporter of fish. Further incentives 
were provided in this sector to encourage foreign investment in form of tax exemptions as well as 
traditional fishermen to improve their vessels. This is in order to achieve the ambi tious target for a 
contribution of 2% of GDP and a growth of 5.6% per annum.  
3.19.   The Agriculture sectors proves to face important challenges because of the limited availability 
of arable land, the scarcity of irrigation water, the poor and declining quality o f the soil due to 
increasing salinization, overgrazing, and adverse climatic conditions. Still the Government set an 
ambitious target of GDP contribution to 3.1% by 2020, with annual growth topping 4.5%. The 
Government wants to lessen its reliance on food imports and at the same time ensuring food 
security. The Oman Food Investment Holding Company (OFIC) established in 2012 has been 
mandated to invest in food security, economic diversification.  
3.20.   The last sector in focus is mining, where its contribution to t he economy has gradually 
increased, from 0.4% in 2014 to 0.9% in 2020. To further enhance the growth in this sector, the 
government has reformed its legal and institutional framework to provide investors with more 
incentives, guarantees, transparency, and certainty.  
Bilateral – multilateral relations  
3.21.   Let me now turn to the bilateral relations Oman has developed over the years to further 
support its economic development and social goals.  
 
3 Viewed at: https://www.imf.org/en/News/Articles/2019/04/11/pr19113 -oman -imf-staff-concludes -
2019-article -iv-visit-to-oman   
4 Secretariat Report, Table 1.3 Selected macroeconomic indicators 2014 -20. WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  3.22.   Oman has been part of the regional integration and economic cooperation in the Arab world 
with the GCC and the Pan -Arab Free Trade Area (PAFTA).  
3.23.   At the multilateral level, Oman is an active Member of the WTO and is striving to commit to 
the rules based multilateral trading system which Oman believes will support it s development. It is 
an active participant in the current round of multilateral trade negotiations. As mentioned by the 
Government "The rule -based system of the WTO is of benefit to all Members, but in particular to the 
smaller, developing countries" . This speaks volume on the importance of the multilateral trading 
system to the Omani Government. The largely open and liberal policies of the Government are based 
on the multilateral principles and rules of the WTO.  
Other instruments of reforms  
3.24.   In addition to the main instruments of reforms, I indicated earlier, Oman has been speeding 
up its privatization processes as part of its long -term strategy to allow greater participation of the 
private sector in its economy.  
3.25.   The future national strategy to support the establishment of a knowledge -based economy and 
to promote innovation and competitiveness in accordance with Oman Vision 2040 has been 
developed closely with the WIPO.  
3.26.   Last but not least, the government's measures for the improvement and mode rnization of 
various legal frameworks is an important step. Among them are the revised Law on Combating 
Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing (ML/TF), the establishment of National Committee for 
Combating Money Laundering and Terrorism Financing, and th e creation of the National Centre for 
Financial Information.  
Challenges  
3.27.   The path to transition to a diversified economy away from a growth driven by oil and gas has 
had some bumpy rides as a result of falling oil prices and the pandemic which hit the econo my hard. 
All of Oman related oil sector suffered from the falling oil prices as well as the falling oil demand as 
a result of the pandemic. The tourism and aviation sectors registered significant losses. Oman's GDP 
has seen some bouts of contraction in the  last few years.  
3.28.   During the period under review, the reforms the government has extensively pursued have 
started to pay off. However, growth remained a challenge, understandably due to overreliance on 
hydrocarbons.  
3.29.   These challenges have given the Governmen t renewed determination and commitment for 
ambitious development and diversification as outlined in its Vision 2040, where the real GDP growth 
is aimed 5% annually for the next 20 years, with 90% being non -oil sector.  
3.30.   In terms of C OVID -19 response, the Go vernment swiftly took measures to mitigate the 
impacts on the economy. Fiscal measures such as interest -free emergency loans, waiving or reducing 
selected taxes and fees, flexibility to pay taxes in instalments, and establishing the Job Security 
Fund to su pport citizens who lost their jobs were implemented.  
3.31.   In the tourism sector, tourism tax and municipal taxes were waived for two years. New 
measures to facilitate and accelerate the imports of goods were also introduced.5 
3.32.   Oman seems to have some of the ess ential ingredients to further develop its economy: an 
open economy, a stable country in a region in turmoil and a good reform strategies.  
3.33.   As we are reviewing today the trade policy of Oman, it is worth mentioning that some of the 
trade policy instruments deployed by the Government of Oman to pursue its ambitious objectives 
for prosperity and sustaining an economic could potentially be perceived at times as inconsistent 
 
5 In the wake of the COVID -19 pandemic,  Oman  implemented  new import  measures.  Specifically, Asyad 
approved the practice of "direct" imports from the country of origin, with fewer clearance procedures to speed 
up the process and reduce costs procedures to speed up the process a nd reduce costs.  It also reinforced the 
transition to electronic submission of documents and virtual customs clearance , Secretariat report page 34 .  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  with its international commitments. This is the reason for Members to seek further clari ty on the 
choice of the some of the measures implemented by the Government, how will they achieve the 
goals the Government has set forth for its development and how are they in compliance with WTO 
obligations. The main points raised by members have been ci rculated by Secretariat and I invite 
Oman to share with Members the rationale behind its policy choices and provide further clarity on 
these measures.  
3.34.   To conclude, I feel that Oman is equipped with the right compass and the necessary means 
to gear up for i ts development and growth.  
3.35.   I wish Oman a very successful TPR and success in the implementation of its initiatives to 
become a developed country . 
  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4  STATEMENTS BY MEMBERS  
ICELAND  
4.1.  Iceland joins others in welcoming the distinguished delegation of Oman to thei r Trade Policy 
Review. We also express appreciation to the WTO Secretariat and Oman for the reports prepared, 
as well as to the discussant, for the excellent framing of the issues for our discussion today.  
4.2.  First, I would like to mention the FTA between GCC and the EFTA countries - Iceland, 
Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland that was signed in 2009. The FTA, which has served our 
countries well, covers broad range of areas including trade in goods, trade in services, competition, 
and government  procurement as well as additional agreements on agricultural products.  
4.3.  Oman 's economy has in the past few years been affected by low oil prices then as with other 
countries it 's been heavily affected by the COVID -19 pandemic. Facing this health crisis Oma n has 
undertaken various measures to mitigate the impact on it s economy.  
4.4.  The impact of this health crisis has revealed new challenges relating to trade and trade -related 
activities as it is widely recognised that the pandemic has affected women much harder  that men 
and preventing them from participating in trade.  
4.5.  Identifying barriers that women face when it comes to participating in trade will help in the 
development of policies and programs that encourage women 's participation in national and 
international  trade and by doing so promotes sustainable socioeconomic development.  
4.6.  Important tool in advancing women 's economic empowerment is sharing of best practices of 
respective experiences relating to those policies and programs and the trade policy review provi des 
an excellent opportunity to do that.  
4.7.  Therefore, Iceland has submitted in advance written questions on the participation of women 
in the economy of Oman and welcomes Oman 's replies as the answers will be useful as we gather 
best practices.  
4.8.  Iceland appreciates Oman 's active engagement in WTO and their continued support for the 
multilateral trading system. We wish the delegation of Oman every success for their Trade Policy 
Review.  
CANADA  
4.9.  Canada joins other WTO Members in welcoming H.E. Mr Qais  Mohammed Al Yousef , Minister of 
Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion , and the other members of the delegation from 
Oman today both virtually and in -person. We are very pleased to participate in the third Trade Policy 
Review of Oman. We thank the Go vernment of Oman and the WTO Secretariat for their reports.  
4.10.   First, we would like to commend Oman for ratifying the Trade Facilitation Agreement since its 
last Trade Policy Review, and for having officially implemented 100% of its commitment under the 
Agreement that since 2020.  
4.11.   Canada was also pleased to learn that since the last review, Oman has implemented reforms 
related to foreign capital investment, privatizations, public -private partnerships, and bankruptcy, to 
improve the business environment and lab our market and obtain a competitive edge for foreign 
investment and facilitate higher inflows of FDI.  
4.12.   These efforts have been fruitful since the Secretariat has noted that foreign direct investment 
in Oman nearly doubled from 2014 to 2019 and is expected to play an important role in Oman 's 
structural reform.  
4.13.   Canada congratulates Oman for improvements towards a stable and open investment 
environment with the modernization of their foreign investment regime in 2020. 100% foreign -
owned companies are now permi tted, and foreigners no longer need to partner with a local WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  shareholder. However, we note with concern that while the 30% Omani ownership requirement has 
been revoked, registration fees for 100% foreign ownership have in fact increased to 3,500 Omani 
Rial (approximately USD 9,100).   In addition, some projects related to strategic development (public 
facilities, infrastructure, energy, roads, transport, and ports) must be approved by the Council of 
Ministers and meet additional requirements.  
4.14.   We were quite interested to learn about the launch this year of Oman 's "Vision 2040 " agenda, 
which identifies a broad and ambitious set of national priorities for the next twenty years, including 
economic diversification, fiscal sustainability, private sector developmen t, the attraction of foreign 
direct investment, and international cooperation. Under Vision 2040 and successive five -year plans, 
we understand that Oman intends to: achieve developed country status by 2040; diversify 
production and exports; achieve a balan ced budget; attract foreign investment; and maintain low 
inflation rates. We commend your Government for setting out this bold agenda, one we are confident 
will ensure the continued growth and prosperity of the Sultanate of Oman.  On the Vision 2040 
agenda , Canada has looks forward to reviewing the responses to questions raised regarding the 
policy of "Omanization " of the labour force, a part of Vision 2040 that includes a temporary ban on 
hiring foreign workers.  
4.15.   In relation to the WTO 's deliberative functi on, Canada appreciates the excellent WTO 
notification record of Oman over the past decade. Such transparency ensures all WTO Members and 
their stakeholders remain updated on our respective trade policies, and any changes to them.  In 
addition, we encourage  Oman to participate in Joint Statement Initiatives at the WTO. We also 
encourage Oman to consider joining the Multi -Party Interim Appeal Arbitration Arrangement as soon 
as possible to ensure binding dispute settlement with access to appellate review in di sputes.  
4.16.   In this period of unprecedented health and economic challenges due to COVID -19, the 
predictability and stability provided by the World Trade Organization (WTO) and the rules -based 
international trading system is crucial for both Oman and Canadian b usinesses and workers, as well 
as the path towards economic recovery. It is key to supporting a strong, sustainable, and inclusive 
economic recovery from the COVID -19 pandemic.  
4.17.   Canada looks forward to a constructive exchange of views an all aspects of the trade regime 
and economy of Oman.  We appreciate the responses from Oman to our questions and wish the 
delegation the utmost success during this Trade Policy Review.  
BRAZIL  
4.18.   Brazil would like to thank the Government of Oman and the Omani Mission to the WTO,  in the 
figure of Permanent Representative Idris Al Khanjari, for  engaging in Oma n's third Trade Policy 
Review and providing Members with a transparent overview of the country 's economic performance 
and adherence to the multilateral trading system.  
4.19.   We wou ld like to express our appreciation to the WTO Secretariat for its thorough and 
comprehensive report, as well as to the Chair, Ambassador Dr Athaliah  Lesiba Molokomme 
(Botswana), and the discussant, Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan), for their  
contribution to this crucial exercise on  transparency.  
4.20.   Oman is an important partner of Brazil. We enjoy an expanding economic relationship. Trade 
flows between Brazil and Oman increased by 36% between 2015 and 2020, despite the effects of 
the worldwide pa ndemic.  
4.21.   We are proud to supply Oman with vital products for their economy and their food security, 
such as iron ore and poultry meat. Meanwhile, Oman is an important source of inputs for our 
agribusiness and our industry.  
4.22.   Investment is another relevant are a of our relationship. In this, perhaps the flagship of our 
success is Brazilian mining company Vale 's iron ore  pelletizing plant, located in Sohar. It is the 
largest foreign investment in Oman outside the hydrocarbon sector and also Brazil 's largest 
investment in the  Middle East. Brazilian companies have many other successful stories in Oman, 
especially in the areas of mining and food.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4.23.   In both trade and investment, Brazil wants to build upon our current partnership with Oman 
and fulfil our potential to go  even further. We see a broad range of  trade opportunities that we have 
yet to harness. We have a specific interest in the Omani market for products based on bovine, swine 
and poultry meat, as  well as for live bovines and bubalines. We have submitted requests to the 
Omani authorities in order to receive the relevant export requirements. Our hope  is to be able to 
achieve progress, so that those products can become another bulwark of our trade relationship.  
4.24.   The COVID -19 crisis had a major impa ct on both the world and the Omani economy. Falling 
oil prices were a substantial factor leading to a 6 .4% decline of the Omani GDP in 2020. We are glad 
to receive indication that their economy is ready to bounce back, with a 2 .5% growth estimate in 
2021.  
4.25.   We applaud Oman 's high level of engagement with the Trade Facilitation Agreement, including 
total implementation of their commitments. Other positive  developments during the review period 
were new investment laws, such as the 2019 Commercial Companies Law and the 2020 New Foreign 
Capital Investment Law, that reduced national ownership requirements and lessened the burden for 
foreign investment.  
4.26.   Let me conclude  by wishing Oman a very successful and productive Trade Policy Review.  
SINGAPORE  
4.27.   Let me begin by c onveying my warm greetings and appreciation to Minister of Commerce, 
Industry and Investment Promotion Mr Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef , who is participating virtually 
from Muscat. I would also like to welcome the Omani delegation who are here with us today in 
Geneva, including Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry , Dr Saleh Said Masan. We thank 
Oman for its comprehensive Government report and statement. We also thank the Chair Ambassador 
Athaliah Molokomme, Discussant Ambassador Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan) , as well as the Secretariat 
for their insightful reports and statements. Allow me to make three points.  
4.28.   First, Singapore and Oman enjoy long -standing and warm political and economic ties. Being 
strategically located on major trade routes, Singapore and Om an have historically been active 
trading nations. Personally, I learned this first -hand as Co -Chair of the Jewel of Muscat Joint Working 
Group, when Oman and Singapore collaborated to build and sail the Jewel of Muscat from Muscat to 
Singapore. For those w ho are not familiar with the Jewel of Muscat, it is a faithful reproduction of a 
seventh  century dhow that sunk in Belitung while ferrying cargo from China to the Middle East. I am 
sharing this little anecdote to underscore Oman's role as a historical trad ing nation with deep 
connections with Asia.   
4.29.   In this context, there is significant potential for Oman and Singapore to expand our economic 
partnership.  In 2020, bilateral trade between Oman and Singapore amounted to around US D 480 
million, which makes Om an Singapore 's nineth  largest trading partner in the Middle East and North 
Africa region.  This represented a year -on-year increase of 6%, despite the challenges arising from 
the COVID -19 pandemic. Singapore’s import of services from Oman also increased mo re than 20% 
in 2020 to reach USD  200 million.  As Singapore and Oman expand our bilateral economic 
partnership, the FTA between the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and Singapore signed in 2013 will 
continue to be the bedrock on which Singapore -Oman economic  relations will grow from strength to 
strength.  
4.30.   Singapore also continues to deepen our collaboration with Oman at both the Government and 
business levels. For example, the Singapore -Oman Joint Committee and the Singapore -Oman 
Business Council served as us eful platforms to deepen collaboration and commercial partnerships in 
areas such as transport and logistics, infrastructure and engineering, energy, and oil and gas. 
Singapore companies present in Oman represent a diversity of sectors, including aquacultur e, cargo 
handling, urban planning, and Maintenance, Repair and Operations (MRO) of aircraft.  
4.31.   Second, Singapore commends Oman 's efforts to embrace digital transformation as it seeks to 
diversify its economy. For example, the Digital Oman Strategy, which co vers the development of 
digital government services, ICT industry development, digital standards, and infrastructure, 
constitute a key thrust of Oman 's economic development strategy as encapsulated in Oman Vision 
2040.   Pivoting from reliance on the energ y sector to pursue other growth areas with digitalisation WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  potential including manufacturing and transport, and logistics will strengthen the resilience of 
Oman 's economy and support its economic recovery. Singapore will continue to work closely with 
Oman t o explore new areas of collaboration, especially as we embark on post -pandemic recovery.  
4.32.   Third, on the multilateral front, Oman has been a steadfast supporter of the WTO.  In this 
connection, we want to encourage Oman to join the JSI on E-Commerce, which we believe will spur 
further growth for Oman 's small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and support the successful 
implementation of Oman Vision 2040.  
4.33.   Singapore would also like to encourage Oman to consider elevating its status as an observer  
to become a party to the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA), given the importance of 
establishing open, fair, and transparent conditions of competition in government procurement 
processes. I wish Oman every success for its third Trade Policy Review .   
UNITED  STATES  
4.34.   The United States is pleased to welcome  Mr Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef , Minister of 
Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion , and rest of  the delegation to the third Trade Policy 
Review  of Oman.  We welcome the Secretariat and Government reports and appreciate the 
opportunity to gain a clearer sense of changes to trade and investment policies in Oman since the 
last review in 2014.  
4.35.   The United States and Oman enjoy a constructive bilateral relationship, with cooperation 
spanning many of the economic and security issues confronting the Middle East and the world.  On 
the commercial front, bilateral trade continues to expand, and as we implement our bilateral Free 
Trade Agreement (FTA), we look forward to continued engagement on trade issues.  
4.36.   In 2020, the value of U S goods imports from Oman was US D 815 million, with the top import 
categories in plastics at USD 274 million, aluminum at USD 189 million, iron and steel products at 
USD 106 million, jewelry at USD 64 million, and organic chemicals USD 46 million.  
4.37.   Our comprehensive bilateral FTA eliminated tariffs and other barriers on substantially all 
goods and services trade, thereby promoting economic growth and additional commercial 
opportunities.  A number of the reforms that Oman has undertaken, not only supports their FTA 
commitments, but also benefits its ' other trading partners.  
4.38.   We hope that Oman will find this review to be useful as the country continues to open its 
markets for global trade.  The United States has submitted a number of question s to better 
understand Oman 's processes and mechanisms, and we look forward to reviewing Oman 's responses 
to our written questions.  
4.39.   For example, the United States understands that Oman and the other GCC Member State 
governments are currently considering re visions to the excise tax on beverages.  We and other WTO 
Members have raised concerns in several fora about the implementation of this tax, and we have 
asked for an opportunity to consult on necessary revisions, including switching to a graduated tax 
based on total sugar content – whether from either naturally occurring and/or added sugars – 
exempting beverages with no added sugar and low caloric beverages from the tax, and ensuring 
that there is no discrimination between energy drinks and other beverages currently covered that 
have similar amounts of sugar.  
4.40.   We remain particularly interested in the timeline to inform private industry, governments, 
and other interested parties about the study currently underway on a new excise tax model and 
Oman 's formal mechanism for consulting with interested parties regarding the selective tax, 
particularly in advance of any final decisions.  We note differences among the GCC Member State 
Governments in their implementation of the selective tax, and look forwar d to working with Oman 
work with the other GCC Member State Governments to ensure that any amendments to the Unified 
Excise Tax Treaty for the GCC address the issue of consistent implementation.  
4.41.   In addition, we submitted questions regarding its treatment p roviding fewer clearance 
procedures for "direct " imports from one of 86 commercial ports in certain countries vs. imports that WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  arrive in Oman with intermediate stop and whether Omani customs officials also provide advance 
rulings with regard to rules of or igin in determining eligibility under preferential trade agreements.  
4.42.   The United States has also raised detailed questions regarding intellectual property rights, 
Oman 's technical regulations and standards for imported halal products and notifications for 
domestic support programs, import licensing procedures, incentives to the free trade zones and 
measures aiming to increase exports of agricultural products, as well as the roles of Oman 's Export 
Credit Guarantee Agency, the Oman Development Bank and the Oma n Food Investment Holding 
Company.  
4.43.   We also call on Oman to no longer seek special and differential treatment in current and future 
WTO negotiations.  By taking this step, Oman would make a significant contribution to ensuring that 
the WTO remains a viable forum for meaningful trade negotiations.  
4.44.   The United States greatly appreciates the opportunity to participate in this TPR review and 
looks forward to continuing our work with Oman, and our trading partners, to strengthen the global 
economy and the multilat eral trading system embodied by the WTO, allowing trade and investment 
opportunities to expand.  
ISRAEL  
4.45.   Israel would like to thank you, the Discussant H.E. Mr  Muhammad Mujtaba PIRACHA 
(Pakistan), Oman, and the Secretariat for the detailed reports. Israel al so welcomes Mr Qais 
Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion as the Head of 
the Omani Delegation to this TPR, Ambassador Idris Al -Khanjari and DPR Hilda Al -Hinai.    
4.46.   Israel welcomed the accession of Oman to the WTO back i n 2000.  Since then, Oman has 
proved that it is a loyal Member of the WTO and respects the rule based multilateral trading system 
and its values. Oman has adopted a constructive and practical approach in the WTO and has 
contributed to the overall discussio ns and negotiations. Oman has contributed to the joint efforts to 
promote the rule -based multilateral trading system on the basis of its core principles  of (Non -
discrimination) and transparency.   
4.47.   In the WTO, Oman is a Member of the Information Technology Agreement. Israel would 
welcome Oman 's accession to the Revised Information Technology Agreement, which we are 
confident would benefit Oman and all the other participants. In the same vein, we would welcome 
progress in the accession process of Oman to the GPA.  
4.48.   During this exercise, Israel submitted questions to Oman, and we look forward to reviewing 
the replies in due course.  
4.49.   As we are nearing MC12, Israel looks forward to Oman 's continued contributions and 
constructive role towards a successful Ministeri al. Israel wishes Oman a very successful T rade Policy 
Review . 
EUROPEAN  UNION  
4.50.   On behalf of the European Union, I would first like to welcome the delegation of Oman, led 
by H. E. Mr Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment 
Promotion. I would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat and the delegation of Oman for their 
reports and the Discussant H.E. Mr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha (Ambassador of Pakistan) for his 
remarks.  
4.51.   This is the third review for Oman and I would like to start  by noting that overall, the country 
is moving in the right direction.  
4.52.   Since the last review of Oman in 2014 (jointly with Bahrain and Qatar) the country 's economy 
was affected by the impact of the global pandemic and by the drop in prices in the internat ional 
energy markets, as the energy sector and the hydrocarbons production remains the backbone of 
Oman 's economy, industrial output and trade.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  4.53.   As already noted in previous reviews, Oman – similarly to other GCC countries – is fully aware 
of the need to a void too high dependence on the energy sector and the country is implementing 
specific strategies aiming at diversifying their economies under the "Vision 2040 ". 
4.54.   In order to help this process in 2019 - jointly with our GCC partners – the EU have initiated 
the "EU-GCC Economic Diversification Project " which is ongoing and aims at supporting economic 
diversification in the Gulf economies. One of the key goals of the project is to learn from each other 's 
best practices through preparing specific studies and ev ents (some of them having been hosted by 
Oman). The project involves stakeholders, both from the private and public sector in areas, such as 
standards, investment promotion, IPR protection as well as in new emerging areas, including circular 
economy, digit alization and connectivity as well as employment and "Omanization ".  
4.55.   As part of this project in the context of the ongoing Expo Dubai, significant events have been 
organized including a conference on the participation of women in the tech sectors and a hig h-level 
EU-GCC Business Forum focussing on economic diversification.  
4.56.   Oman is actively engaging in this project, which the EU appreciates, and we think that these 
exchanges and long -term strategic plans will help the country to improve further its economy by 
making it more sustainable and knowledge -based in the coming years.   
4.57.   A word on our bilateral relationship. In 2018, the EU and Oman signed a Cooperation 
Arrangement to enhance our dialogue in areas of common interest, including trade, investment, and 
economic cooperation in general, which provides a well -established frame work for our bilateral 
engagement.  
4.58.   The EU remains a very important trading partner for Oman with a bilateral trade in goods 
reaching EUR  3.3 billion in 2020 and trade in services amounting to EUR  2.9 billion in 2019 (last 
available data). The EU is the cou ntry's sixth trading partner and the second source of imports 
covering more than 10% of country 's imports. EU FDI in Oman has also significantly increased over 
the past few years, with a stock of EUR  10.4 billion European investment in the country in 2019 from 
EUR 1.3 billion  in 2018 (last available data).  
4.59.   At the multilateral level, the EU commends Oman on implementation of all of its commitments 
under the Trade Facilitation Agreement and the amendment of the TRIPS Agreement in 2017 as well 
as their engagem ent in the WTO negotiations on fisheries subsidies. The EU stresses the need to 
achieve concrete results at the WTO 's 12th Ministerial Conference to show that the WTO can deliver 
on the economic recovery, on trade and health and on sustainability. We call for Oman 's cooperation 
in the WTO reform discussions. Specifically, on services, we encourage Oman to join the group of 
WTO Members that are committed to bringing the Joint Initiative on services domestic regulation to 
a successful conclusion by MC12. This  initiative is of great importance to service suppliers across the 
world and will help them in their recovery from the pandemic. We also encourage Oman to join the 
MPIA.  
4.60.   Let me also welcome the accession of Oman to the Geneva Act of the Lisbon Agreement on  
Appellations of Origin and Geographical Indications. The Geneva Act is a significant tool for the 
protection of GIs around the world and it is for the time being the only multilateral basis for GI 
protection.  
4.61.   Despite these positive aspects, the EU submit ted a number of questions and concerns, namely 
on public procurement requirements and procedures, standards for certain products and IPR.  
4.62.   We understand that in early 2021 the responsibility for food safety has been shifted from the 
Ministry of Commerce to  the Division of Food Safety and Quality Control under the authority of the 
Ministry of Agriculture.  We are confident that the new organizational set -up is smoothly functioning 
by now and will shortly help resolving the market -access issue we have on the olive oil extra virgin 
and pomace oil to Oman.  
4.63.   Let me conclude by recalling that the EU is looking forward to Oman 's responses to the 
questions we have put forward today and others that we have previously submitted in writing. On 
behalf of the EU, I wish Oman a very productive and successful review.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  KINGDOM  OF SAUDI  ARABIA  ON BEHALF  OF THE ARAB  GROUP  
4.64.   The Arab Group is very pleased to take part in the third Trade Policy Review of Sultanate of 
Oman and wishes to extend a very warm welcome to its distinguishe d delegation headed by H.E. Mr 
Qais Mohammed Al Yous ef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion.  
4.65.   I would like to take this opportunity to thank our brothers in Oman and the WTO Secretariat 
for their detailed and comprehensive Trade Policy R eview reports. I also thank the discussant H.E. 
Mr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha , Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO 
for his insightful comments.  
4.66.   Despite that Oman faced a double challenges as low prices of oil and the COVID -19 pandemic, 
Oman took a series of measures to lower the impact of them on the econo my which resulted in 
expected growth of its economy by 2.5% in 2021.  
4.67.   The Arab Group would like to commend Oman for its Vision 2040 and successive five -year 
plans which aims to achieve developed country status by 2040, diversify production and exports 
away from oil, and create employment opportunities for Omanis. It Also be commended for reducing 
the average clearance time for imports to seven hours.  
4.68.   We congratulate Oman for officially implementing 100% of its commitments under the Trade 
Facilitation Agreeme nt in 2020, and for introducing its New Foreign Capital Investment Law in 2020, 
and for its National Strategy for Intellectual Property which is currently under formulation.  
4.69.   We praise Oman for the changes and improvements that occurred in many areas during  the 
review period such as the ones in the telecommunications infrastructure, and the legal framework 
for financial services as well as competition law.  
4.70.   Before I conclude, I would like to say a few words on behalf of Saudi Arabia. Saudi Arabia and 
Oman enj oy a brotherly friendly trade relationship supported by shared membership in the GCC and 
Arab league, and they are prominent trading partners. Despite the pandemic, the trade exchange 
between the two countries in 2020 grew by 43% than it was in 2016, and S audi Arabia amongst 
Oman 's top trading partners. Saudi -Omani Joint Business Council that was established to 
strengthening the cooperation between the two countries in various fields remains very active in 
paving the way for closer economic ties to strength en trade cooperation and to enhance investment 
opportunities in the two countries.  
4.71.   Last July 2021, His Majesty Sultan of Oman Haitham bin Tariq Al Said visited Saudi Arabia 
and meet with the Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Salman bin Abdulaziz Al Sa ud, and HRH 
Prince Mohammad bin Salman, Crown Prince, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Defense. This 
visit is the first foreign visit of the Sultan of Oman, after assuming the reins of government, which 
bears great meanings indicating the depth and si ncerity of the relations between the two countries, 
the two leaderships and the two brotherly peoples. This visit comes with great outcomes such as 
welcomed the establishment of a Saudi -Omani Coordination Council to strengthen their bilateral 
relations in various fields, directed to work on concluding a number of treaties and memorandums 
of understanding (M OUs) between the two brotherly countries for cooperation in different fields 
which contribute to achieve the objectives of the Saudi 's Vision 2030 and Om an's 2040 vision.  
4.72.   At the end, I would like to thank H.E. Mr Idris Al Khanjari , Ambassador and Permanent 
Representative of Oman to the United Nations Office and other international organizations in Geneva 
and his distinguished team for the excellent coopera tion between our two missions here in Geneva 
which serves our mutual interests.  
4.73.   To conclude, we wish our brothers in Oman a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  CHINA  
4.74.   China would like to extend our warm welcome to the delegation of Oman led by H.E. Mr Qa is 
Mohammed Al Yousef, the Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, to the third 
Trade Policy Review. We would like to thank the discussant, Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba 
Piracha for his insightful remarks. My thanks also go to the Secretaria t for their hard work to prepare 
this exercise.  
4.75.   China commends the efforts of Oman on its economic openness, diversification and long -term 
development. During the review period, economic diversification was an important component of 
Oman 's Development Pla n "Oman Vision 2040 " lunched in 2019 further focuses on diversification, 
aiming to transform the economy to be more driven by the private sector, particularly to encourage 
more solid development of small and medium -sized enterprises.  
4.76.   As a part of the dive rsification effort, FDI is expected to play an important role in structural 
reform. It is encouraging to learn that during the review period, FDI stock in Oman nearly doubled 
from USD  19.7 million in 2014 to USD  37.9 million in 2019. We believe the 12 nati onal priorities and 
their key performance indicators will help Oman achieve its goal toward a diversified and sustainable 
economy.  
4.77.   We congratulate Oman for its great achievements in reform and development across many 
fields, such as optimizing government expenditures, adoption of new legislation on trade and 
investment policies. Among these, China welcomes the adoption of the new Commercial Companies 
Law and the new Foreign Capital Investment Law in Oman. The reform and modernization of Oman 's 
investment r egime will improve the business environment for foreign investors.  
4.78.   China highly commends Oman 's strong support to the rules -based, transparent, non -
discriminatory, open, and inclusive multilateral trading system. We recognize Oman 's constructive 
engagement  in the WTO work, including its active participation in WTO regular bodies, as well as 
negotiating groups.  
4.79.   With a long history dating back to the ancient Silk Road, the ties between China and Oman 
have exemplified the China -Arab relations and the friendly exchanges between the two great 
civilizations. China has been Oman's largest trading partner in recent years. Trade growth between 
the two countries averaged about 10.6% between 2016 to 2020. In the first half -year of 2021, 
bilateral trade volume reached USD  14.6 billion ，an about 60% year -on-year increase. We expect 
to further strengthen the trade relationship with Oman in the future.  
4.80.   China would like to note that we have submitted written questions with the hope to have 
further clarifications on p olicies and regulations on intellectual property rights, cross -border e -
commerce, and foreign investment. We appreciate Oman for their timely responses to our questions.  
THAILAND  
4.81.   Thailand welcomes the opportunity to participate in the third Trade Policy Review of Oman. 
We wish to extend a warm welcome to H.E. Dr Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary for Commerce and 
Industry, and his delegation to Geneva.  
4.82.   We would like to thank you, Chair, for your comprehensive summary, the Secretariat for 
excellent work on the  report, and the Discussant, H.E. Mr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha, Ambassador 
of Pakistan for his insightful analysis of Oman 's trade policy.  
4.83.   Thailand and Oman have long -standing relationship since 1980s and we were delighted to 
celebrate the 40th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Thailand and Oman in 2020. 
Cooperation at various levels between people, businesses, and governments of both countries has 
laid out the foundation for strengthening relations and played a significant role in enhancing new 
opportunities and cooperation.  
4.84.   Thailand and Oman bilateral economic relations and cooperation have expanded steadily in 
many areas of mutual interests such as rubber, halal food, aquaculture, energy, tourism, and WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  healthcare. In terms of merchandise trade, Om an is the fourth largest trading partner of Thailand 
among the GCC countries, and Thailand is the second largest trading partner of Oman in ASEAN. In 
2020, bilateral trade amounted to USD 926.41 million  and Thailand 's imports from Oman registered 
at USD 566.35 million, increasing 13.05 % from 2019.  The top exported goods from Thailand to 
Oman are motor vehicles, and parts and accessories; organic chemicals; machinery, mechanical 
appliances; rubber and articles; and seafood. Meanwhile, Thailand is among Oman 's top export 
destination for oil in Asia. Thailand hopes that our bilateral trade will continue to grow to further 
strengthen our economic relations.  
4.85.   In recent years, Oman 's economy has encountered challenges from fluctuating oil prices and 
the global econ omic slowdown due to the COVID -19 pandemic. Oil and gas still dominate the 
economy accounting for 26.2% of GDP and approximately 60% of merchandise exports according 
to the secretariat report. Thus, Oman is encouraged to diversify her economic structure to  other 
potential sectors such as services (transport and logistics and tourism), agricultures, and fisheries 
for longer term resilience. Thailand welcomes "Oman Vision 2040 " and the 2016 -2020 Five -Year 
Development Plan which aim to serve this objective as well as to create greater employment 
opportunities and to steer Oman’s economy to achieve the developed country status by 2040.  
4.86.   Thailand values Oman 's contribution and firm commitment to strengthening the multilateral 
trading system. During the review period, Oman has expressed consistent efforts in ongoing reforms 
particularly in the area of customs clearance procedures with greater utilization of technology as 
well as promo ting trade facilitation implementation, contributing to achieve complete 
implementation of its commitments under the Agreement in 2020.  
4.87.   Moreover, we commend Oman 's efforts to liberalize her trade and investment regimes. Having 
privatization as one policy objective priorities and the recent implementation of competition law 
would reinforce economic progress and enhance consumer benefits greater access to variety of 
goods and services. In lieu of investment policy, we also believe that the new investment leg islation, 
which entered into force in 2019 and 2020, would promote business -friendly environments and 
encourage greater participation from foreign investor and small and medium -sized enterprises 
(SMEs) and contribute to inclusive economic growth in the cou ntry. 
4.88.   Aside from general positive economic outlook and favourable business environment, some 
areas of policies should be highlighted and require further clarifications.  
4.89.   In this review, Thailand submitted questions covering specific aspects of Oman 's trade  and 
economic policies, including eligible products for tariff exemptions and concessions, trade facilitation 
measures to minimize supply chain disruption, liberalization of services particularly in banking and 
telecommunication sector. Thailand hopes to r eceive responses to our questions in due course and 
will study them with great interest.  
4.90.   Lastly, Thailand looks forward to further strengthening economic cooperation with Oman, 
utilizing the strategic locations of the two countries in both regions in incre asing mutual trade and 
investment values. Thailand also appreciates the leadership of Ambassador Idris Al Khanjari and we 
look forward to work closely with the Omani Mission to advance mutual interests of our two missions.  
TURKEY  
4.91.   Turkey joins other Members  in welcoming the delegation of the Sultanate of Oman, 
participating both virtually and in person and headed by H.E. Mr Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister 
of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion.  
4.92.   We would like to thank the Secretariat and the Govern ment of Oman for their detailed reports 
as well as our discussant Ambassador Piracha of Pakistan for his enlightening comments.  
4.93.   Turkey commends Oman 's efforts to diversify its economy in order to address the challenges 
and ensure a strong recovery after th e pandemic.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  4.94.   The Vision 2040 launched this year identifies its promising long -term goals regarding 
economic diversification, fiscal sustainability, private sector development, the attraction of sizeable 
foreign direct investment and international cooperati on.  
4.95.   The privatization mandate remains to be of importance under Vision 2040 in order to reduce 
the state ownership and to transform the economy to be further driven by the private sector.  
4.96.   In this context, Turkey welcomes the new legislation on investments  that was adopted in 
2019 and 2020. We believe that these amendments will help to improve FDI flow into the country.  
4.97.   It should also be underlined that the legal framework for financial services continued to be 
improved and modernized during the review per iod. The authorities maintain the same licensing 
procedures for local and foreign -owned banks.  
4.98.   Turkey values Oman 's firm commitment to the multilateral trading system and the WTO. We 
welcome the ratification of the Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2017. Sin ce 2020, Oman has 
implemented all its commitments under the Agreement.  
4.99.   Turkey believes that there are various opportunities for partnership with Oman. Therefore, 
we aim to strengthen our bilateral relations with Oman in every field.  
4.100.   We consider that mutu al high -level visits are important for the momentum we need. In this 
regard, Our Minister of Foreign Affairs, H.E. Mevlüt Çavuşoğlu visited Oman this year in February 
and October.  
4.101.   We would like to hold the next session of Joint Economic Commission in Ankar a to boost our 
economic and trade relations.  
4.102.   In concluding, we thank the delegation of Oman in advance for their replies to our questions 
on specific aspects of its trade policy.  
4.103.   We take this opportunity to thank the delegation of Oman, Ambassador Idris A l Khanjari and 
his team for the excellent preparation for this review, as well as their contributions to WTO activities.  
We wish Oman a very successful Trade Policy Review.  
INDIA  
4.104.   At the outset, I would like to extend a ver y warm welcome to the delegation of Oman led by 
H.E. Mr Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion .  
4.105.   India is pleased to be part of the Trade Policy Review of Oman and my delegation would 
further like to commend the  Government of Oman, the delegation in Geneva led by H.E. Mr Idris Al 
Khanjari , Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Oman and the WTO, and the Secretariat for 
their comprehensive reports.  
4.106.   India would also like to thank the discussant H.E. Ambassador Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan)  
for his insightful remarks.  
4.107.   India enjoys excellent bilateral relations with Oman, which can be ascribed to cordial, 
political, economic, cultural exchanges which date back to centuries. The growing strategic relations 
between the  two countries have been folded faster  by the visit of the Indian Prime Minister to Oman 
in 2018. During the visit the two sides expressed satisfaction over the current status of bilateral 
relations and agreed to further expand their cooperation to new are as of mutual interest including 
inter-alia, energy security, renewable energy, and food security, with the view to take the 
partnership to a higher level.  
4.108.   The presence of large Indian community in both these countries in another important aspect 
of the clo se bilateral relationship, these close ties further strengthen when Oman provided special 
medical assistance to India during our difficult times in the pandemic this year, for which India 
expresses its deep gratitude to the Government and people of Oman.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4.109.   The economic and commercial relations between India and Oman are robust and buoyant ; 
and the buoyancy comes from the latest trade data. If we look at commercial relations between 
India and Oman, bilateral trade was of the order of USD  5.4 billion in the las t year; and I'm happy 
to share that in the first four months of this year, even being stuck by the pandemic, our bilateral 
trade with Oman is already 50% of what was done in last year.  
4.110.   Therefore, it shows that India and Oman are very important trading part ners, India was the 
second largest market for Oman's crude oil exports for 2020, and even if we talk about non -oil 
exports, India was the third largest market for Oman for 2020.  
4.111.   Investment flows both ways have been robust, as reflected numerous joint ventu res 
stablished both in India and Oman. The are over 4,000 Indian -Omani joint ventures in Oman with 
estimated investment of USD  7.5 billion. Both, India and Oman accord high priority to strengthening 
economical and commercial relations between the two count ries. 
4.112.   Economic cooperation between India and Oman is reviewed thorough  the institutional 
mechanism of India -Oman Joint Commission, that meeting is at a ministerial level, the nineth session 
of this Commission was held virtually on 19 October last year.  Th e JCM accorded an opportunity to 
review the entire gamma of bilateral economic relations between India and Oman, several new areas 
of cooperation were identified during the discussions such as food security, pharmaceutical, 
minerals, mining, and space coop eration.  
4.113.   We note with appreciation the report provided by the Secretariat for this Trade Policy Review, 
the report underlines the negative impact on the economy due to the COVID -19 pandemic, however 
now with recovery from pandemic and increased external de mand and higher oil prices, the economy 
is expected to grow by 2.5% and we are glad that Oman has undertaken several steps to improve 
business climate, including permitting 100% FDI in most of the sectors.  
4.114.   The long -term development plan has emphasised in O man's Vision 2040 accompanied by 
the five -year plans through liberalization, diversification and privatizations have helped in the robust 
economic growth on diversification of its economic skilled development and removal of income 
inequalities.  
4.115.   The Governm ent's push towards economic diversification under its Tanfeedh programme has 
led significant emphasis classifying, fisheries, manufacturing, mining, logistics, tourism, etc. as 
priority sectors, and we welcome the focus on this diversification which seeks to transform Oman 
into a knowledge and digital economy and India will be a willing partner in their effort.  
4.116.   We would like to thank Oman for the replies to various posted by our delegation that will be 
studied carefully by my Capital.  
4.117.   Finally, Oman has been  an active Member and participant in the world across the full WTO 
agenda and here I must mention the role of Oman's delegates from Oman, in particularly in all the 
discussions where the developing countries used to meet together and had travail analysis o f any 
proposal at the WTO, so we expect that same participation from the Omani delegation will continue 
in our dialogue on development related matters.  
4.118.   We look forward to working with Oman in further expanding and fostering our trade and 
investment ties fo r mutual benefit.  
4.119.   To conclude, I extend my congratulations once again to Mr Idris Al Khanjari , Ambassador 
and Permanent Representative of Oman and his delegation for their positive contributions and wish 
the entire delegation of Oman a productive and a su ccessful Trade Policy Review.  
KINGDOM  OF BAHARAIN  ON BEHALF  OF THE GULF  COOPERATION  COUNCIL  (GCC)  
4.120.   We are delighted to participate in the third Trade Policy Review of the Sultanate of Oman, 
and would like to warmly welcome H.E. Mr Qais Mohammed Al Yousuf, Minister of Commerce, 
Industry and Investment Promotion, H.E. Mr Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary of the Ministry of 
Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and H.E. Mr Idris Al Khanjari, Ambassador and  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  Permanent Representative of Oman to the UN, WTO a nd other international organizations in Geneva.  
We would also like to thank the WTO Secretariat for their efforts in preparing the detailed report.  
4.121.   We are delighted to see all the positive transformations and economic growth mentioned in 
both reports. Thi s of course comes after the global economy has faced many challenges during the 
review period, not least in light of the global pandemic, to which the Sultanate of Oman has 
commendably responded by implementing a number of economic measures to reinstate 
macroeconomic stability and enable businesses to navigate the economic turbulence.  
4.122.   We are pleased that the report shows the various efforts undertaken by the Sultanate of 
Oman, under its Oman Vision 2040 development strategy, in advancing the country's econo mic 
development and diversification agenda , including, among other things, a commitment to raise real 
GDP per capita by 90% and real GDP growth by 5% annually over the course of the next 20 years.  
4.123.   Looking forward, we view great interest and opportunity in investment in the Sultanate of 
Oman and its potential for attracting Foreign Direct Investment to our region. As the report shows, 
the investment regime is a priority area for Oman 's economic development as the Sultanate actively 
promotes both domestic and  foreign investment to enhance economic growth and development. To 
this end, the Sultanate of Oman aims to enhance the contribution of foreign direct investment to 
DGP by 10%.  
4.124.   I cannot conclude this statement without highlighting Oman 's role as a long standing and 
strong supporter of the WTO and the multilateral trading system. During the period under review, 
the Sultanate of Oman deepened its active participation and deliberation at the WTO Councils and 
Committees , thereby attesting to its full support  and belief in the effectiveness of an open and rules -
based multilateral trading system in contributing to global economic development and prosperity.  
4.125.   Finally, we would like to thank the discussant for his remarks and active discussion and the 
WTO Secretar iat for their efforts in preparing the detailed reports and we wish the Sultanate of 
Oman every success in its Trade Policy Review.  
JORDAN  
4.126.   First, we fully associate ourselves with the statement delivered by the Kingdom of Saudi 
Arabia on behalf of the Arab  Group. Jordan would also like to join other delegations in welcoming 
H.E. Mr Qais Mohammed Al Yousuf, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and 
his distinguished delegation, and to congratulate them for participation in this crucial exer cise as 
well as for the efforts of preparing Oman 's report, despite the challenges imposed by the pandemic.  
4.127.   We would like to thank the Secretariat for providing a comprehensive and oversight picture 
of the main developments in the Oman 's economy and trade regime for the period under review. 
Our appreciation is also extended to the discussant for his insightful and thorough remarks.  
4.128.   We commend the Sultanate of Oman for their commitment to trade liberalization under the 
multilateral trading system centred on WTO since its accession in November 2000, and for a wide 
range of open, liberal, and transparent trade policy based on the rules and principles of the WTO 
aimed at modernizing the economy.  
4.129.   This has been translated through its membership in the G ulf Cooperation Council and the 
Great Arab Free Trade Area together with its bilateral preferential agreements and FTAs signed with 
different countries and regions, including Jordan, and the other FTAs which are negotiated. Those 
memberships attest to the commitment of our brotherly country Oman in its efforts to implement 
policies of trade liberalization and pursuing a policy of open trade that is all in compliance with and 
supportive of the multilateral trading system.  
4.130.   As a WTO Member, we thank Sultanate of Oman for ratifying the protocol concerning the 
WTO Trade Facilitation Agreement in 2017 and officially implemented 100% of their commitments 
under the Agreement in 2020.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4.131.   The sustained economic growth rates and the progressive economic policies are remar kable; 
which is shown at the launch of ambitious and comprehensive Vision 2040 enshrines the long -term 
goals of Oman that identifies economic diversification, fiscal sustainability, private sector 
development, the attraction of sizable foreign direct inves tment, and international cooperation.  
4.132.   We should not forget to mention the trade and economic policy measures adopted by the 
Government of the Sultanate of Oman, during the period under review, reflect its commitment to 
the economic transformation and growt h of the country. Especially, in the wake of the COVID -19 
crisis, Oman approved the practice of direct  imports from the country of origin, to speed up the 
clearance process and reduce costs. It also utilized the transition to electronic submission of 
docum ents and virtual customs clearance.  
4.133.   On the bilateral side, the brotherly and historical relations that Jordan and Oman enjoy, is a 
symbol of a successful and fruitful partnership, trade between Oman and Jordan has witnessed a 
remarkable growth, as both cou ntries acknowledge that trade is one of the main means of 
development and to mutually benefit with the potentials available in both countries.  
4.134.   Finally, we would like to thank and congratulate the Permanent Representative of Oman in 
Geneva and his whole tea m for their very constructive role in preserving and consolidating the 
multilateral trading system.  We wish our brothers a productive and a successful Trade Policy Review.  
YÉMEN 
4.135.   La République du Yémen tient à féliciter le Sultanat d 'Oman à l 'occasion du tr oisième examen 
de sa politique commerciale à l 'OMC. Le Yémen félicite Oman pour l 'adoption et la mise en œuvre 
d’une politique économique et commerciale ouverte. Malgré tous les défis, y compris la récente 
pandémie de COVID -19, le Gouvernement d 'Oman a con tinué à mener des réformes pour la stabilité 
macroéconomique et à promouvoir la diversification économique grâce à une participation accrue du 
secteur privé et des investissements étrangers.   
4.136.   Le Yémen apprécie hautement les objectifs ambitieux d 'Oman, tel s que détaillés dans la 
Seconde Visions 2040, ainsi que le 10e plan quinquennal en tant que feuille de route exécutive. La 
Seconde Vision 2040, constitue une référence pour les priorités nationales et les activités planifiées 
au cours des deux prochaines d écennies. Il n 'est donc pas surprenant qu 'une telle Vision ait suscité 
une très large participation des parties prenantes et un consensus national.  
4.137.   Enfin, Madame le Président, Oman participe activement aux activités régulières de l 'OMC 
ainsi qu 'aux différ ents domaines de négociations. La politique volontariste adoptée par le 
Gouvernement d 'Oman sur un certain nombre de réformes a remarquablement facilité son 
engagement dans les négociations commerciales multilatérales de l 'OMC.  
4.138.   Nous souhaitons à Oman plei n succès dans la réalisation de ses objectifs et dans le troisième 
examen de sa politique commerciale.   
ARGENTINA  
4.139.   Quisiéramos asociarnos a los Miembros que han dado la bienvenida a la delegación de Omán, 
encabezada por el Excmo. Sr. Qais Mohammed Al Youse f, Ministro de Comercio, Industria y 
Promoción de Inversiones.  
4.140.   Agradecemos los informes preparados por Omán y por la Secretaría, que ofrecen un 
panorama completo de las políticas comerciales de este Miembro. Damos las gracias asimismo al 
Embajador Muhammad  Mujtaba Piracha por sus observaciones y comentarios, que nos han permitido 
profundizar nuestro conocimiento sobre las prácticas comerciales de Omán y sobre el entorno 
económico en que opera.  
4.141.   La Argentina mantiene un sólido vínculo comercial con Omán. El comercio bilateral entre 
nuestros países fue de  USD 131 millone s en 2020. A Omán exportamos principalmente cereales, 
alimentos para animales, máquinas, aparatos y artefactos mecánicos. A su vez, Omán nos provee 
de combustibles, productos de destilación y p lásticos.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  4.142.   En los últimos años, el comercio entre nuestros países ha crecido significativamente. Sin 
embargo, se encuentra aún lejos de su potencial. Creemos que existen grandes oportunidades para 
el intercambio comercial en el campo farmacéutico; alimentar io; y de productos ligados a la 
explotación de petróleo y gas.  
4.143.   La Argentina reconoce los desafíos a los que se enfrenta Omán por la crisis económica 
producto de la pandemia y la caída de los precios internacionales del petróleo. Entre ellos, la 
necesidad de diversificar la economía para reducir la dependencia del sector petrolero; la 
sostenibilidad fiscal; y la creación de empleo. Celebramos que Omán aborde estos temas en Visión 
2040, manteniendo una política económica basada en la apertura comercial y la creación de un clima 
empresarial favorable.  
4.144.   Coincidimos con Omán en que es necesario trabajar de manera responsable y constructiva 
en el marco de la OMC para fortalecer el sistema multilateral de comercio basado en normas. Además 
de su cumplimiento en mat eria de notificaciones, Omán participa activamente en las actividades de 
la OMC. Cabe destacar su rol activo en el Consejo General, el Consejo de Comercio de Mercancías y 
el Consejo de los ADPIC, y la defensa de las negociaciones del programa de Doha en be neficio de 
todos los países en desarrollo.  
4.145.   Aprovechamos la oportunidad para reiterar nuestra intención trabajar en conjunto con Omán 
a fin de obtener resultados sustantivos en la 12CM, que tengan por finalidad crear un sistema 
multilateral de comercio más justo, que atienda las necesidades de los países en desarrollo.  
4.146.   Por último, queremos subrayar que la Argentina desea continuar expandiendo las relaciones 
comerciales con Omán, y consideramos a la cooperación Sur -Sur un pilar fundamental para 
fortalecer eso s lazos teniendo como base los principios de complementariedad, igualdad y 
solidaridad.  
4.147.   Permítame concluir agradeciendo nuevamente a la distinguida delegación de Omán, a usted, 
al Embajador Piracha y a la Secretaría por esta nueva oportunidad para intercam biar consideraciones 
sobre las políticas comerciales de Omán. Reafirmamos la relevancia de este ejercicio en todos sus 
aspectos; y deseamos al Sr. Ministro de Comercio, Industria y Promoción de Inversiones y a toda 
su delegación una exitosa conclusión del presente examen.  
TUNISIE  
4.148.   Ma délégation a le plaisir de participer au 3ème EPC du sultanat d 'Oman, et souhaite la 
bienvenue à la délégation omanaise conduite par S.E. M. Qais Mohammed Al Yousuf, Ministre du 
Commerce, de l' industrie et de la promotion des investissements, à qui nous voudrions exprimer 
notre considération pour l’exposé exhaustif sur la situation économique et la politique commerciale 
de son pays frère.  
4.149.   Nos félicitations s 'adressent également au Secrétariat pour le rapport complet qu 'il nous a 
soumis à l 'occasion de cet examen et S.E . l'Ambassadeur Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan) 
pour la pertinence des remarques qu 'il a développées.  
4.150.   Ma délégation tient à souligner les efforts considérables déployés par le sultanat d 'Oman 
depuis le précèden t examen de sa politique commerciale, en vue de poursuivre sa politique de 
libéralisation économique et commerciale à travers le renforcement du processus d 'ouverture, 
l'instauration d 'un environnement propice au développement des investissements et la 
diversification des relations commerciales et économiques avec ses partenaires, dont la Tunisie.  
4.151.   Depuis le dernier examen de sa politique commerciale, Oman a dû faire face à un double 
défi à savoir la baisse des prix du pétrole et, à l 'instar de tous les pays , à la pandémie de la 
COVID -19.  
4.152.   Oman a pris une série de mesures pour en réduire l'impact économique et social, ce qui a 
permis un rétablissement progressif de la croissance, estimée à 2,5% pour l 'année 2021, 
notamment, grâce à un déploiement efficace de la vaccination de ses citoyens, permettant une 
reprise rapide des activités.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4.153.   Les autorités omanaises ont fait aussi preuve d 'une grande adaptabilité aux exigences de la 
pandémie en vue de faciliter les échanges pendant la période de la crise, à  l'instar de la réduction 
du délai moyen de dédouanement pour les importations, ramené à sept heures seulement, et le 
renforcement des transitions par voie électronique ou le dédouanement virtuel.  
4.154.   Le Sultanat d 'Oman s 'est par ailleurs engagé dans une politique ambitieuse et persévérante 
d'encouragement des investissements dans les infrastructures et d 'amélioration de la couverture 
sociale des citoyens omanais.   
4.155.   Ma délégation souhaite, à ce titre féliciter Oman pour sa Vision 2040 et ses plans 
quinquen naux successifs qui visent à atteindre le statut de pays développé d'ici 2040, en diversifiant 
son économie non pétrolière et en créant des opportunités d'emploi pour les Omanais. Nous 
voudrions souligner, à cet égard, les conclusions du rapport sur l 'impact d’un prix bas du pétrole sur 
la croissance du secteur non pétrolier, fondée sur des mesures de relance monétaire conséquentes.  
4.156.   Le sultanat, grâce à la Vision 2040, projette de capitaliser sur son potentiel dans le tourisme, 
secteur clé du programme de d iversification du pays et source importante d'emplois,          
4.157.   Le rapport souligne aussi une participation, demeurant importante, de l'État dans plusieurs 
secteurs concurrentiels. L 'élimination des restrictions aux investissements et l 'ouverture sur le pr ivé 
seraient profitables à l 'économie omanaise.  
4.158.    Depuis son adhésion à l 'OMC, Oman reste, par ailleurs, un acteur actif de l 'Organisation et 
un fervent défenseur du système commercial multilatéral basé sur les règles. Nous apprécions à, ce 
titre son implic ation dans les négociations, particulièrement sur les subventions à la Pêche, secteur 
stratégique au Sultanat et pour plusieurs pays en développement.  
4.159.   La Tunisie et Oman entretiennent des relations privilégiées d’amitié et de coopération et 
leurs échanges commerciaux, s 'inscrivant dans le cadre de l'accord économique et commercial de 
Muscat de 1992 et de la grande zone arabe de libre -échange.  
4.160.    Le suivi du développement de la coopération est assuré par le comité de la coopération 
commerciale et des investiss ements créé en 2005.  Les échanges commerciaux entre les deux pays 
ont avoisiné les 20 millions d 'USD en 2020.  
4.161.   Nos deux pays sont déterminés à renforcer et à consolider cette coopération dans tous les 
domaines, notamment ceux d 'intérêts communs, tels que l e tourisme, l’artisanat, l’agriculture et la 
pêche.  
4.162.   Enfin, je tiens à féliciter S.E. l'Ambassadeur  Idris Al Khanjari, le Représentant Permanent du 
Sultanat d 'Oman auprès de l 'OMC, ainsi que son équipe pour leur engagement actif aux travaux de 
l'OMC, ainsi qu'aux travaux du cycle des négociations commerciales menées à Genève. Nous 
souhaitons à nos frères d'Oman un examen très fructueux de sa politique commerciale.  
REPUBLIC  OF KOREA  
4.163.   I would like to extend a warm welcome to the delegates in Geneva as well as i n Muscat for 
the third Trade Policy Review of Oman. I would like to especially thank Minister of Commerce, 
Industry, and Investment Promotion, H.E. Qais Mohammed Al Yousef.  
4.164.   My special appreciation also goes to Ambassador Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan ) for 
his contribution as a discussant and to the Secretariat for its informative report.  
4.165.   Also, I would like to thank Ambassador Idris Al Khanjari (Oman) and his team for their hard 
work.  
4.166.   Korea takes note that although Oman is relatively less hydrocarbon -rich than its neighbours, 
Oman’s economy and trade continues to be heavily dependent on oil and gas and shows certain 
structural weaknesses since oil markets have been volatile.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  4.167.   As a result of the low oil price during the review period, government gross de bt has increased 
from 5.4% in 2014 to 81% of GDP in 2020. Recent recovery trend of oil prices would be helpful to 
improve government debt in the future.  
4.168.   Korea would like to note that Oman has launched Vision 2040 in 2021. The Vision identifies 
economic di versification, fiscal sustainability, private sector development, the attraction of sizable 
foreign direct investment, and international cooperation.  
4.169.   Oman is a member of the GCC and the Pan -Arab Free Trade Area Treaty. Oman has an FTA 
with the United Stat es, as well as with Singapore and the European Free Trade Association through 
the GCC. The GCC has started FTA negotiations with Korea from 2009, but the negotiation is 
currently suspended.  
4.170.   Under the new Foreign Capital Investment Law, the former requireme nt of 30% Omani 
ownership was revoked. However, foreign investment projects must comply with inspection and 
monitoring procedures. Land ownership by foreigners is also generally prohibited. These remaining 
regulations might raise questions about the potent ial trade -distorting effects.  
4.171.   Korea was Oman’s fourth largest export partner in 2019 and third largest in 2020. As one of 
the largest petroleum suppliers to Korea, Oman has played an important role in Korea’s economic 
growth.  
4.172.   Although bilateral trade decr eased in 2020 due to the decline in oil prices, we believe that 
both countries will continue to build a comprehensive economic partnership based on the close 
economic relations developed so far.  
4.173.   Taking this opportunity, I would like to ask a few questions to the delegation of Oman.  
4.174.   First, it appears that the agricultural sector in Oman faces various challenges, such as the 
scarcity of irrigation water and declining quality of soil due to increasing salinization. What is Oman's 
strategy regarding this matter ? 
4.175.   Second, a lot of countries in the world have great difficulty in attracting the young generation 
to be involved in the agricultural sector. What is Oman 's strategy for attracting young generation to 
the agricultural sector?   
4.176.   Third, Oman 's population is very young. The age -dependency ratio is below 40% and around 
half the population is under 30. This age structure implies pressures for the Government to create 
jobs for the young. What is Oman 's strategy for creating jobs for the young generation?  
4.177.   Fourth, if the COVID -19 pandemic situation improves in the future, the tourism sector could 
be identified as key to the country 's diversification program and considered as a source of significant 
employment. However, state involvement in the sector is quite large, while foreign investment 
restrictions remain in place. Are there any plans to make a structural reform in the tourism s ector 
to attract foreign investment?  
4.178.   Considering the large population of the young generation, we note that Oman needs to pay 
great attention to building healthy and skilled human capital. Education and vocational training are 
definitely the sectors to be financed by public resources. Young people in a young country can do 
anything positively in any area if they are well educated and trained.  
4.179.   Korea would like to once again highlight Oman 's efforts to contribute to a more open, 
transparent, and  efficient overall trading environment.  
4.180.   Let me conclude by expressing our sincere appreciation once more to the delegation of Oman 
for its hard work and wishing the delegation a successful T rade Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  QATAR  
4.181.   Qatar would like to associate itself by the statement delivered by the delegation of the 
Kingdom of Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab Group and the delegation of Bahrain on behalf of the 
GCC.  
4.182.   Allow me to start by extending our warmest welcoming messages to H.E. Mr Qais Mohammed 
Al Yousuf, M inister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, and the whole Omani 
delegation whose efforts are very apparent in the reports and the statement. We would like to thank 
you also Madam Chair, as well as the Secretariat, and the discussant H.E. Mr Muj taba Piracha, 
Ambassador and Permanent Representative of Pakistan to the WTO, for his outstanding 
presentation.  
4.183.   Qatar and Oman share a multi -layer and robust political and economic relations, our 
countries are strong partners with similar economic charact eristics.  
4.184.   For the period under review which was marked by an unprecedented health and economic 
crisis triggered by the COVID -19 pandemic, Qatar would like to applaud Oman commitment to keep 
its markets open, promoting competition, and supporting businesses  and workers throughout the 
crisis; Oman has committed a considerable amount of its GDP in economic, social and health support.  
4.185.   We would like also to commend Oman on its Vision 2040 which constitutes guide and key 
reference for planning activities in the n ext two decades, prioritizing economic diversification, fiscal 
sustainability, private sector development, the attraction of sizable foreign direct investment, and 
international cooperation.  
4.186.   Qatar would like to note also that Oman has consistently supporte d efforts to strengthen the 
rules-based multilateral trading system and to ensure that the WTO remains relevant for the future.  
4.187.   Oman has participated actively in WTO negotiations to address important issues such as the 
fisheries subsides and is also active ly involved in ongoing WTO discussions on forward -looking issues 
like trade and health.  
4.188.   In conclusion, we commend Oman role in the multilateral trading system and we wish the 
Omani delegation every success for its T rade Policy Review . 
NEPAL  
4.189.   At the outset,  I would like to extend my warm welcome to the delegation of Sultanate of 
Oman led by H.E. Mr Qais Mohammed Al Yousef , Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment 
Promotion at this meeting convened for reviewing the existing trade policy of the country.  
4.190.   I wish to thank H.E. Mr Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan) for his insightful deliberation as discussant 
for the review of Oman.  
4.191.   My delegation would also like to thank to the Government of Oman and the WTO Secretariat 
for preparing and submitting the comprehensive  reports on existing trade policy of Oman on their 
respective behalf.  
4.192.   In this occasion, I would like touch briefly upon the facts mentioned in the trade policy 
reports prepared and submitted by the Secretariat and the Sultanate of Oman.  
4.193.   The reports highli ghted that the Government of Oman has shown continued commitment 
towards rule -based, predictable, and liberalized international trade policies and practices. This is 
praiseworthy chair.  
4.194.   As goals stipulated in "Oman Second Vision 2040 " document which identi fies economic 
diversification, fiscal sustainability, private sector development and the attraction of sizable FDI with 
targeted indicators and priorities seems to be instrumental for sustainable economic and social 
development of the country.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  4.195.   Furthermore , the national blue print envisions the share of no -oil activities to grow to more 
than 90% of GDP, as well as a 40% contribution to job creation by the private sector. The five year 
plan under the same vision document, aims at developing a society of crea tive individuals, a 
competitive economy, environmental and natural resources, besides a state with responsible 
apparatus are encouraging national commitments.  
4.196.   Efforts and achievements made by the Government of Oman in overcoming the challenges 
posed by dif ferent socio -economic phenomenon including C OVID -19 pandemic through 
macroeconomic stability including a combination of policy reforms, implementation of a value -added 
tax, amendments to several existing taxes and investment regimes, digitalization of ec onomic and 
governance activities remained commendable.  
4.197.   My delegation believes that the current and long -term policy goals envisioned by the 
leadership in order to pursue sustainable economic growth, maintaining financial stability, 
diversification of over all economy and trade and strong wiliness to increase investment in human 
capital are valuable efforts undertaken by the Government of Oman.  
4.198.   Let me turn to bilateral front. Nepal and Sultanate of Oman have been enjoying cordial and 
friendly relation since the establishment diplomatic relation in 1977. Mutual trust, respect, 
understanding and cooperation have remained the strong basis of bilateral relations.  
4.199.   Nepal and the Sultanate of Oman share common views on several global agenda and issues 
through differ ent international forums such as the United Nations, Non -Aligned Movement (NAM), 
G-77, WTO , etc. 
4.200.   There is huge potential of further enhancing the bilateral cooperation between Nepal and the 
Sultanate of Oman in the areas of economic, trade, investment, tou rism, and foreign employment if 
explored well by both countries.  
4.201.   The bilateral trade between Nepal and Oman is growing over the period. In 2020, Nepal 
imported products from Oman of above NPR 4 billion whereas Nepal 's exports accounted just about 
NPR 1 million resulting above  NPR 4 billion negative trade balance for Nep al. 
4.202.   Tourism is another important area where both countries have huge potentials for mutual 
benefits. For instance, Nepal could provide best alternative ambience for Omani tourists to spend 
their holidays and in doing other touristic activities. Endowed wit h natural beauty, culture and 
hospitable Nepali people, Nepal can be destination of choice for Omanis.  
4.203.   The sultanate of Oman has become one of the most preferred destinations for employment 
opportunities for Nepali workers whereas honest and loyal Nepali y ouths are important source of 
labour force in Oman to carry out the developmental and industrial works since the past numbers of 
years.  
4.204.   In this regard, my delegation hopes, by exploring and leveraging the cooperation in above 
areas, both countries will be able to further cement the bilateral ties in economic, trade and 
investment, social, cultural and people to people levels ahead in future.  
4.205.   Having said this Chair, I would like to express my best wishes to the delegation of Sultanate 
of Oman for the success ful conclusion of this round of Trade Policy Review . 
EGYPT  
4.206.   Egypt associates itself with the statement delivered by Saudi Arabia on behalf of the Arab 
Group and wishes to join others in extending a very warm welcome to H .E. Mr Qais Bin -Mohamed 
Al Yousef, Honourable Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion of Oman, and the 
esteemed delegation from Muscat and in Geneva.  
4.207.   We thank the Government of Oman and the WTO Secretariat for their detailed reports, as 
well as H .E. Ambassador Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan) for his insightful comments as discussant.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4.208.   Although Oman’s economy was heavily hit by the C OVID -19 pandemic to the extent that it 
contracted by 6.4% last year, it was able to swiftly respond with a series of commendable measures, 
which helped in  making growth projections of 2.5% this year.  
4.209.   We hope that the pandemic would not impede Oman 's ambitious 2040 strategy, which paves 
the way for a sound macroeconomic foundation based on diversification, foreign investment and job 
creation.  
4.210.   We commend Om an's commitment to the multilateral trading system. This is evident in its 
constructive contribution to various discussions at the WTO and excellent record in submitting 
notifications, as well as its full implementation of the Trade Facilitation Agreement,  and transition to 
virtual customs clearance, reducing the average clearance time for imports to an impressive seven 
hours.  
4.211.   Egypt praises Oman for implementing a set of economic reforms towards a more conducive 
and open trade and investment environment. In  this regard, the Secretariat report highlights the 
Anti-Monopoly and Competition Law, and the legislation on Consumer Protection, both adopted in 
2014, in addition to some progress to strengthen intellectual property rights, including the current 
formulat ion of the National Strategy for IP in route to a knowledge -based economy. We believe that 
continued reforms of such may help Oman 's quest for economic diversification.  
4.212.   Egypt and Oman share brotherly, historical and well -established ties, and our economic 
relations are no exception. Bilateral trade witnessed steady figures during the review period and has 
shown increasing trajectories in 2021 surpassing USD half a billion.  
4.213.   Egypt applauds Oman 's positive contribution to the advancement of Arab economic 
integration. We share the membership of the Pan -Arab   Free trade Agreement (PAFTA) and look 
forward to deepening our economic relations in this regard.  
4.214.   Egyptian investments in Oman reached some USD 680 million this year, mostly in the fields 
of infrastructure and real estate, while Omani investments in Egypt have increased in the fields of 
industry, tourism, construction, and agriculture. Nevertheless, we strongly encourage Oman to 
continue expanding its investment flows to Egypt and make good us e of increasing opportunities in 
various economic sectors.  
4.215.   Finally, Egypt congratulates our Omani brothers on their National Day tomorrow and wishes 
them a successful and fruitful Trade Policy Review.  
BANGLADESH  
4.216.   At the outset, Bangladeshi delegation welcom es H.E. Mr Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, 
Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion  and head of delegation for his 
introductory presentation at the third TPR of Oman. Bangladeshi delegation also thanks H.E. 
Ambassador Mujtaba Piracha (Pakistan)  for his insightful discussions. Our sincere appreciation also 
goes to the Government of the Sultanate of Oman and the Secretariat for the comprehensive reports.  
4.217.   The relationship between our two countries have been friendly since the conception of 
diplomat ic relations, o ur bilateral ties have been  further bolstered with the high -level visits from 
both sides .  
4.218.   Bangladesh is delighted to note the great strides and significant progress  that Oman has 
made during the review period. We see that the prudent macro -economic measures adopted by the 
country have resulted in impressive economic growth and remarkable improvement in almost all 
indices.  
4.219.   As is relatively less hydrocarbon -rich than its neighbours, oil and gas still play a significant 
role in the Omani econom y. In 2020, the oil and gas sector accounted for 26.2% of GDP, represented 
about 60% of Oman's merchandise exports, and contributed three quarters of total government 
revenues.   WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  4.220.   the review period, Oman faced a double challenge from low oil prices and the C OVID -19 
pandemic; Oman's economy grew to a peak in 2016 at a rate of 5.1% before it began to sharp down 
in 2017. The economy contracted by 0.8% in 2019, and further 6.4% in 2020 . Oman operates a 
pegged exchange rate regime with the US dollar. However, the liquidity in the domestic money 
market is highly associated with oil prices.  
4.221.   Merchandise imports declined by about 25% during the review period, and export s dropped 
by about 28%, mostly owing to low prices of hydrocarbon exports. Consequently, the current  
account has been in deficit since 2015, and is estimated to continue its widening trend. As of end -
2020, the current account deficit was equivalent to 10% of GDP. Reflecting stable foreign direct 
investment (FDI) inflows and a bond issuance, Oman's intern ational reserves slightly declined. Asian 
economies are Oman's top oil export markets, while its Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) neighbours 
are its major trading partners with regard to non -oil trade.  
4.222.   With the "Vision 2040" which is comprehensive and cover s all aspects of development and 
real opportunities, Oman's Government hope to move to new stage of progress.  
4.223.   The Sultanate of Oman recognized Bangladesh in 1974 , Bangladesh established her 
diplomatic mission in Oman in March 1983 . Since then, the two coun tries have been maintaining 
cordial relations. Oman was one of the first Arab countries to extend support to Bangladesh's 
membership at the UN and other international organizations. Bangladesh upgraded its mission in 
Oman in 1996 at the level of Ambassador , and Oman established its full -fledged embassy in Dhaka 
in 2012.   
4.224.   During the last decades bilateral trade between Bangladesh and Oman has grown but in a 
low space. We have much more scope to expand and diversify the bilateral trade items ; Bangladeshi 
products like  RMG garments ; ceramics ; pharmaceuticals ; leather products ; frozen fish ; jute; and 
jute products ; processed food ; etc. were demanded and prospective the Omani market.  Our 
businessmen are confident  that they can supply most of the products to Oman at much more 
competitive prices.  We seek your cooperation for facilitating access of our products into the Omani 
market.  
4.225.   In this connection, we would like to propose that our two countries could explore the 
possibility to maximize the available synergies in trade for mutual benefit.  
4.226.    To conclude , we wish t he delegation of Oman a productive and successful Trade Policy 
Review, my delegation will continue to work closely with the Omani delegation, led by Ambassador 
H.E. Mr Idris Al Khanjari , to strengthen multilateral trading system, as we assist our countries  to 
enhance our bilateral trade ties.   
HONDURAS  
4.227.    Nos gustaría comenzar dando una cálida bienvenida a la delegación de Omán encabezada 
por su jefe de delegación Sr. Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Ministro de Industria, Comercio y Promoción 
de Inversiones.  
4.228.   Como d e costumbre extendemos nuestro agradecimiento a usted President a, a la Secretaría, 
y al ponente por sus valiosas observaciones y contribuciones a este examen  
4.229.   En lo que concierne a los informes examinados, nos complace observar que durante el 
período objeto  de examen, la economía de Omán creció hasta un nivel máximo en 2016 a un ritmo 
del 5,1% antes de emprender una drástica desaceleración en 2017, para luego contraerse en 2019 
y 2020 y se espera que la economía crezca un 2,5% en 2021 a medida que el suminis tro de vacunas 
permita restablecer la actividad interna junto con la recuperación de la demanda externa.  
4.230.   Por otro lado, notamos que los objetivos económicos de Omán se fijan en su Visión 2040 y 
en sus planes quinquenales sucesivos, con el propósito de alca nzar la condición de país desarrollado 
para 2040, diversificando su producción y exportación, creando oportunidades de empleo, logrando 
un presupuesto equilibrado, mayor atracción de inversión extranjera, mantenimiento de bajas tasas 
de inflación y reducie ndo su dependencia del petróleo.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  4.231.   Asimismo, observamos con interés la Estrategia Nacional de Innovación, la cual refleja la 
visión y el progreso de Omán en su empeño por convertirse en uno de los 20 primeros países en 
materia de innovación para 2040, basado s en los pilares de capital humano, la integración 
institucional y comunitaria, la propiedad intelectual, la transferencia de conocimientos y la 
diversificación económica.  
4.232.   Los informes indican que, desde el último examen, la infraestructura de telecomunica ciones 
de Omán ha mejorado considerablemente y en el marco de la aplicación de la Estrategia Nacional 
de Banda Ancha, en 2018 se creó la empresa de propiedad 100% estatal Space Communication 
Technologies para ocuparse del proyecto nacional de satélites.  
4.233.   Por otro lado, notamos que la agricultura, la ganadería y la pesca se consideran uno de los 
sectores clave para la estrategia de diversificación de Omán y en octubre de 2017, Omán introdujo 
su primer seguro agropecuario, que no solo protege a los agricultore s frente a pérdidas o daños en 
sus cultivos e invernaderos, sino que también se extiende a los ganaderos y los pescadores.  
4.234.   Nos satisface observar que Omán mejor ó su puesto en el índice de corrupción de 
Transparencia International y está situado en la categ oría del desarrollo humano muy alto. Además, 
ocupaba el puesto 68 de 190 economías en el índice del Banco Mundial sobre la facilidad de hacer 
negocios, el 32 en cuanto a la facilidad para abrir un negocio y en la edición de 2020 de la Encuesta 
sobre E -Gobierno de las Naciones Unidas, el índice de infraestructura en telecomunicaciones de 
Omán, sitúo al país en el puesto 63 de 193 economías.  
4.235.   Finalmente, Honduras reconoce los aportes y la activa participación de Omán en los distintos 
órganos de la OMC y les de seamos el mayor de los éxitos en la presentación de su examen de sus 
políticas comerciales.  
JAPAN  
4.236.   Japan welcomes the Delegation of Oman led by H.E. Mr  Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister 
of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion. We sincerely appreciate  the reports prepared by 
the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Oman, which form the basis for our discussion today. 
We are also grateful to the Discussant, H.E. Mr Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha, Ambassador of 
Pakistan, for his insightful remarks.   
4.237.   Japan we lcomes Oman's efforts on the structural reform, including privatization, in order to 
foster economic diversification based on the "Oman Vision 2040". Although the COVID -19 pandemic 
has had adverse impacts on Oman 's economy, Japan expects that it will conti nue to grow under the 
multilateral trading system.  
4.238.   Since the last TPR of Oman in 2014, we have forged a more solid economic relationship 
between our two countries. The Japan -Oman Investment Agreement came into effect in 2017. In 
December 2019, dozens of Ja panese companies carried out business missions to Oman, including 
visits to the Duqm Special Economic Zone, and exchanged opinions on investment in the country. 
Former Prime Minister Abe visited Oman last year in order to further strengthen relations betwe en 
Oman and Japan. Next year marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations 
between Japan and Oman, and we would like to continue accelerating our cooperation.  
4.239.   Japan acknowledges that Oman has been engaging in pluri -lateral agreeme nts at the WTO, 
such as the Information Technology Agreement and the Agreement on Government Procurement, 
as a participant and an observer respectively. We look forward to Oman 's further contributions 
towards MC12.  
4.240.   Japan values the fact that the environme nt for foreign direct investment has been improved 
with the New Foreign Capital Investment Law that came into effect in January 2020, removing the 
local shareholder requirement. We also recognize that Oman has signed and concluded 35 bilateral 
investment a greements and 35 tax treaties, including those with Japan.  
4.241.   On the other hand, at the ground level, it has been reported that some contractors faced 
challenges due to the lack of coordination between the central government and relevant WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  organizations in gov ernment -led projects. Therefore, we expect Oman to make further efforts to 
improve its business environment.  
4.242.   Regarding the issuance of visas to foreign workers, Japan recognizes that visa applications 
are often rejected, and the criteria are unclear. We ar e also informed that the authorities recommend 
Japanese companies to prioritize the hiring of Omani people. However, it can be challenging for 
Japanese businesses to follow the recommendation when they need to secure technicians with 
specific skills. There fore, we expect to see an improvement in this situation in order to make it 
possible for human capital who can contribute to the Omani economy by participating in the 
economy.  
4.243.   To conclude, Japan expresses its appreciation for Oman 's participation in this Trade Policy 
Review despite the ongoing COVID -19 pandemic, as well as Oman 's efforts to improve its trading 
environment since the last review.  We wish the delegation of Oman every success in this Trade 
Policy Review.  
  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  5  REPLIES BY THE REPRESENTATIVE OF OMAN  AND ADDITIONAL COMMENTS  
5.1.  On behalf of the Sultanate of Oman 's delegation, I should like to thank our Chairperson H .E. 
Ambassador Dr Athaliah Molokomme, Permanent Representative of Botswana to the WTO and to the 
discussa nt H.E. Dr Muhammed Mujtaba Piracha, Pakistan 's Permanent Representative to the WTO 
and to all distinguished delegates for their presence and participation in this meeting and for their 
support and kind words of encouragement for the Sultanate of Oman's ec onomic and trade policies.  
5.2.  Under the wise leadership and guidance of His Majesty Sultan Haitham bin Tarik, the Sultanate 
of Oman continues to implement trade policies that are consistent with its WTO obligations, 
maintaining an open, free and transparent e conomy, fully conforming to the basic principles and 
rules of the multilateral trading system.  
5.3.  Indeed, this third Trade Policy Review reinforces our continued adherence to the rules, 
disciplines and commitments under WTO Agreements.  
5.4.  A number of distinguished delegates raised questions and made comments at the meeting held  
on 17 November 2021. I greatly appreciate their keen interest in Oman and will attempt to the best 
of our abilities to respond to these.  
5.5.  We have taken careful note of the concer ns raised by the distinguished delegations and I am 
pleased to report that written replies have already been sent to the Secretariat.  
5.6.  Members raised questions about the policy of "Omanization " of labour force. I should like to 
make clear that this policy d oes not discriminate against foreign professionals nor prevent them 
from working in Oman and contributing to our continued social and economic development.  
5.7.  However, the policy is designed to provide career opportunities for young, qualified Omani 
nationals . Indeed, it is surely the responsibility of every government to provide attractive, rewarding 
and sustainable job opportunities to its citizens.  
5.8.  The Government and people of Oman greatly appreciate and respect the invaluable role foreign 
expertise has pla yed and continues to play in our nation 's development. We fully acknowledge the 
need for international expertise where local skills are unavailable. Moreover, we understand that if 
we are to remain a successful economy then we must be able to attract and r etain specialist talents 
in what is a highly mobile global market for skills.  
5.9.  Moving on to the Government Procurement Agreement, some members have encouraged 
Oman to join the GPA. We thank them for their interest and advice. Oman is still in the process of  
examining the preparation required for its accession to the GPA. It's worth noting also that since 
2020 Oman was restructuring its government at a large scale and thus many ministries and 
authorities were merged to meet the new requirements of the current  and future objectives.  
5.10.   With regards to concern raised by the European Union on food safety, we would like to assure 
that the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion will continue coordination with 
the food safety and Quality control center  to ensure that market access for importing of olive oil 
extra virgin and pomace oil would be carried out smoothly.  
5.11.   In relation to Brazil 's concern about their specific interest for products based on bovine and 
poultry, we would like to reinstate that a wr itten response was submitted to the secretariat clarifying 
the inquiry and share the likewise hope that those products can become bulwark of our mutual trade 
relationship.  
5.12.   As for Thailand 's question about liberalization of services sectors particularly ban king and 
telecommunication, we replied to these questions in written.  
5.13.   With respect to urging to involve in the Joint Statement Initiatives, Oman follows with great 
interest the progress in which members are making on this plurilateral negotiations and cont inues 
to assess the advantages of joining such initiatives.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  5.14.   Regarding questions on excise taxes levied on beverages put by the United States , the GCC 
Tax Working Group is reviewing all aspects related to the Unified Excise Tax Treaty for the GCC on 
beverag e drinks. Stakeholders, including the private sector, are involved in this review process.  
5.15.   It is important to mention that Oman applies the same tax rate on all excisable goods and 
ensures equal tax treatment, whether those excisable goods are produced in Oman or imported.  
5.16.   I should also like to emphasize that the excise regime is not and has never been discriminatory 
in any way. The difference in the tax rate between energy drinks and sweetened drinks is based on 
the inherent difference between the types an d contents of the beverages. Therefore, the appropriate 
tax rate applies to a drink depending on how it is categorized based on the legal definition for each 
type of beverage.  
5.17.   As mentioned, Oman is working with other GCC member states to ensure any tax ame ndment 
is implemented consistently. GCC members will agree on the principles and common framework for 
adapting any new tax policy and each state will implement based on its own policy and readiness.  
5.18.   In response to questions on women empowerment from Icelan d. Article 17 of Oman 's Basic 
Statute of the State declares, and I quote:  "All citizens are equal before the Law and share the same 
public rights and duties. There shall be no discrimination between them on the grounds of gender, 
origin, colour, language, religion, sect, domicile, or social status. " 
5.19.   Today, I am proud to say Omani women work in a wide variety of roles in the armed forces, 
police, major local and international companies, technology, medicine, finance, education, sport, the 
arts, and more.  
5.20.   Furthermore, there are no barriers to women conducting business in Oman and the 
government created a number of public organizations designed to support women 's participation in 
economic life.  
5.21.   Several members had comments related to Oman's investment regime . In response, I should 
like to draw your attention to Oman 's 2019 Foreign Capital Investment Law, which allows foreign 
ownership of up to 100% in almost all Omani economic sectors.  This important legislation specifically 
promotes foreign capital investment i n sectors including manufacturing, logistics, mining, tourism, 
fisheries, IT, healthcare , and the low carbon economy.  
5.22.   Further facilitating investment in Oman is Invest Easy, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry 
and Investment Promotion 's one - stop-shop porta l for registering new businesses – an online service 
that reduces procedures as well as time to complete investor transactions.  
5.23.   Today, via Invest Easy, investors can obtain approval for more than 1,500 economic activities , 
issuing one document that include s all licenses and approvals from ten leading authorities in less 
than 24 hours.  
5.24.   I am pleased to report to members that since the launch of the new licensing approval service 
in April, nearly 54,000 applicants have received approvals. Licensing approvals t hat can now be 
issued in a matter of minutes.  
5.25.   It is also important to mention that Oman has made several liberal investment commitments 
in a number of key economic areas including banking, financial services and telecommunications.  
5.26.   On commercial registrati on fees paid by international companies, a topic raised by Canada, I 
am pleased to report that businesses registered in accordance with Oman 's foreign capital 
investment law and investing in sectors supporting Oman 's diversifications efforts well be treate d as 
same as companies owned by Omani nationals. This incentive covers 1,106 economic activities.  
5.27.   We appreciate the comment made by Nepal with regards Nepalese nationals employed in the 
Sultanate of Oman. We warmly welcome and value their significant contr ibution to our ongoing social 
and economic development.  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  5.28.   With regards to the issue raised by Japan about visas. The Government of Oman should like 
to assure all Members that procedures for issuing visas have been streamlined.  
5.29.   As mentioned by H .E. Qais bin M ohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and 
Investment Promotion in his address to the Secretariat on Wednesday, Oman introduced in 
September an "Investor Residency Program " which offers two extended residency options through 
real estate and commercial investment on a renewable five and ten -year basis. The IRP also offers 
residency opportunities to those wishing to retire in Oman.  
5.30.   On the matter of the GCC -South Korea FTA – this remains under active consideration by GCC 
members and we appreciate the attention the Government of South Korea has given to the FTA re -
negotiation process.  
5.31.   I hope I have responded to most of the questions. We also have received follow -up questions 
from the United States.  These questions and any residual questions will be replied to, later, within 
the one -month period.  
5.32.   To conclude, I should like to convey once again my sincere thanks to our Chairperson H .E. 
Ambassador Dr Athaliah Molokomme, Permanent Representative of Botswana to the WTO and to the 
discussant H .E. Dr Muhammed Mujtaba Piracha, Pakistan 's Permanent Representative to the WTO 
for their time, effort , and contribution in making Oman 's third Trade Policy Review such a resounding 
success.  
5.33.   My special thanks go also to the WTO Secretariat for their excellent work regarding the 
preparation of Oman 's TPR reports and organization of this meeting. We are also grateful to 
interpreters for their hard work.  
DISCUSSANT  
5.34.   To have had the honour of being the discussant for their TPR, it provided me the opportunity 
to not only do a bit of desk research on the Sultanate but also reflect on the various comments and 
general drift of queries raised by many of the delega tions that made statements on the first day. I 
have also skimmed trough the record of the questions and the answers provided by Oman.  
5.35.   As a discussant my overall intake from the first day of this trade policy exercise is that 
Members have generally support ed the objectives set by Oman for its economic development. 
Members have commended Oman 's achievements and provided encouragements where Oman would 
need to fine tune some of its policies to achieve its development goals. Public policies are not carved 
in stone. They are organic and evolve with time and learning.  
5.36.   The various reforms the Sultanate has implemented as well as the future policies it has 
announced to lead the country onto its development path, to mitigate the impacts of the pandemic, 
and to build  a resilient economy, have attracted great interest from WTO Members.  
5.37.   I wish to thank Oman for providing in a timely manner, all the necessary clarifications in the 
areas of its trade policies for Members to better understand either the rationale or the w ay how 
Oman is implementing its trade policies in order to meet its developmental goals.  
5.38.   During the period under review, Oman has implemented a well -articulated strategy for its 
growth objectives. It has placed SMEs at the center of its development, offere d incentives to attract 
investments and introduced competition laws. The In -Country Value strategy which has targeted 
primarily the energy sector has been rolled out as national diversification efforts. Massive investment 
programs have been put into place to improve the country 's transport network. The 
telecommunications infrastructure has also been improved. Furthermore, to ensure predictability, 
the Government has improved its legal framework for financial services.  
5.39.   State ownership remains important and t he Sultanate is committed to speed up the 
privatization reforms as it is fully convinced of the participation of the private sector to boost its 
economy. Partial privatization took place in telecommunications and electricity transmission during 
the period under review.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  5.40.   The reforms made by the Sultanate and its achievements in such a short amount of time are 
truly impressive. And I feel that Oman is on a learning curve on how to take forward its development. 
As the saying goes Rome was not built in one day a nd the highly ambitious objectives set by the 
Sultanate will not only need time but also strong commitment at every level.  
5.41.   Among WTO Members, some concerns surround the policy where the Government seeks to 
increase the participation of its nationals into t he private labour market. Some of Oman 's trade 
policies applied as part of the GCC also made Members unsure of the objective of such policies.  
5.42.   Through this Trade Policy Review, Oman has had a good learning opportunity to understand 
where it stands in the multilateral trading system so that it can make the necessary and relevant 
adjustments whenever it considers appropriate. An assessment of Members ' concerns will provide 
Oman with the necessary tools to see the areas where some improvements maybe required while 
meeting its development targets.  
5.43.   Members don 't need reminding that trade and investment policies are amongst the many 
tools that our governments deploy for the achievement of their overarching social and economic 
objectives of public policy. The soc ial and political context of the country under review is an important 
factor that helps us understand some of those policy options.  
5.44.   I sincerely wish to thank Members for their contributions to this review exercise.  
5.45.   As this is only the third Trade Policy Review of Oman since it has joined the WTO in 2000, I 
hope that Oman will take full benefits from this exercise as a contribution to its overall strategy 
reforms when it is heading towards more ambitious development targets and at the same time facing 
the challenges of the pandemic.  
5.46.   In the end, I wish Oman success in all its initiatives, and I wholeheartedly congratulate H.E. 
Mr Qais Mohammed Al Yousef , Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion , and H.E 
Dr Saleh Said Masan, Undersecretary for Commerce and Industry of Oman and H.E . Idris Khanjiri 
and the Omani Mission in Geneva for a successful culmination of their TPR, which was a good 
exchange of information and views.  
SRI LANKA  
5.47.   My delegation welcomes the delegation of Oman led by H.E. M r Qais Mohammed Al Yousef, 
Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion for the third review of the trade policies 
and practices of Oman.  
5.48.   We thank H .E. Mr. Muhammad Mujtaba Piracha, Ambassador of Pakistan, the discussant, for 
his report and insights a nd the WTO Secretariat and the Government of Oman for their 
comprehensive reports made available to the delegations in advance of this meeting.  
5.49.   My delegation noted that in 2021, Oman launched its Vision 2040 enshrines the long -term 
goals of Oman.  As noted , the Vision 2040 is the guide and key reference for planning activities in 
the next two decades to achieve the developed country status by 2040.  
5.50.   We are happy to note that Oman believes that the WTO is the best available forum for 
liberalization and expans ion of international trade. We noted that Oman grants at least most -
favoured -nation (MFN) treatment to all of its trading partners. We appreciate it s active participation 
in the current round of multilateral trade negotiations in particular in services and  fishery subsidies.  
5.51.   Since 2020, Oman has officially implemented 100% of its commitments under the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement. During the review period, Oman submitted numerous notifications to the 
WTO and has never been directly involved in any WTO disp ute. We encourage Oman to maintain 
those remarkable achievements in the future as well.  
5.52.   On bilateral economic relations, Sri Lanka and Oman are signatories to bilateral agreements 
on Air service Agreement, Bilateral Development Advisory Agreement and doub le taxation avoidance WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  Agreement. However, my delegation noted that current bilateral trade and other economic 
cooperation in particular Foreign Direct Investments between the two nations are at a minimal level.  
5.53.   We believe that there are many areas to be d iscovered to strengthen the bilateral relations 
between the two countries and we look forward to exploring those opportunities for further 
collaborations in the future.  
5.54.   In concluding Madam Chair, my delegation appreciates the dynamic role played by 
Ambassa dor H.E. Mr Idris Al Khanjari, Permanent Representative to the WTO and his dynamic and 
able team in Geneva for their proactive engagement in ongoing activities of the WTO.  
5.55.   We wish the delegation of Oman a successful deliberation and productive outcomes on  its 
Trade Policy Review.  
EUROPEAN  UNION  
5.56.   On behalf of the EU, let me first thank Oman for the insightful overview regarding of the main 
trade and economic developments that occurred during the review period.  
5.57.   The EU appreciates the opportunity to receive in -depth information about modernisation a nd 
diversification strategy by Oman notwithstanding the challenges generated by the global pandemic. 
The EU stands ready to continue supporting these efforts.  
5.58.   However, and in spite of these efforts, the economy of Oman has been affected by the 
pandemic in the past two years with significant impact on government revenues.  
5.59.   The EU considers it important that Oman continues and steps up its engagement for the 
efficient functioning and modernization of the multilateral trading system.  
5.60.   The exchanges in the past  two days also underlined the need for Oman to address certain 
concerns by the WTO Members in a number of areas important to ensure predictable trading 
conditions with Oman.  
5.61.   The EU appreciates the responses provided by Oman to these questions and we do no t have 
follow -up questions.  
5.62.   In conclusion, the EU would like to thank the delegation of Oman for seriously engaging in 
this important transparency exercise, helping to improve the framework of economic cooperation 
with the country and demonstrating its co mmitment to WTO. We are confident that our good 
cooperation will continue.  
MAROC  
5.63.   Le Maroc félicite le gouvernement omanais pour son engagement dans le système commercial 
multilatéral et pour la conduite de son troisième Examen de la politique commerciale c ontribuant 
ainsi au respect des règles de l'OMC, notamment le principe de la transparence. Nous saluons aussi 
l'engagement actif de l'Oman dans les négociations de certains accords commerciaux bilatéraux et 
régionaux, compte tenu de leur contribution à un système commercial libre et ouvert.  
5.64.   De prime abord, ma délégation souhaite féliciter le Sultanat d'Oman pour la gestion du défi, 
double, auquel il a dû faire face courant année 2020, à savoir la baisse du prix du pétrole et la crise 
de la COVID -19, en prenant les mesures nécessaires pour rét ablir progressivement l'économie 
nationale, qui devrait croître de 2,5% en 2021. En effet, l'Oman a défi ses objectifs stratégiques 
dans la Vision 2040 d'Oman, qui aspire à acquérir le statut de pays développé d'ici 2040 et à 
diversifier la production et l es exportations pour moins dépendre du pétrole et créer des possibilités 
d'emplois pour les omanais. Cette Vision permettrait au pays de se doter d'une économie durable et 
de plus en plus diversifiée, en développant de nouveaux secteurs stratégiques et en canalisant les 
énergies vers des industries et des services qui apportent un avantage concurrentiel à long terme. 
Le Maroc félicite le Sultanat d'Oman pour ce choix et l'encourage fortement à poursuivre cette 
politique de diversification, tout en lui souha itant plein succès pour son application.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  5.65.   Le rapport d'Examen de politique commerciale révèle les avancées remarquables de l'Oman 
durant les dernières années, notamment au niveau législatif avec l'adoption d'une nouvelle loi sur 
l'investissement en 2019 et  2020 comprenant plusieurs incitations à l'investissement, et d'une loi 
sur la concurrence, permettant le bon fonctionnement du marché et assurant les mêmes conditions 
d'accès à tous.  
5.66.   Le Maroc se réjouit du choix de l'Oman de faire du libre -échange un moy en privilégié du 
renforcement de la compétitivité et de la productivité sur le long terme. C'est dans cet esprit que 
s'inscrit l'accord de libre -échange instaurant la Grande zone arabe de libre -échange qui a permis 
d'ouvrir de nouveaux horizons aux opérate urs économiques de nos deux pays, d'autant plus que nos 
économies respectives disposent de complémentarités et de potentialités non encore pleinement 
exploitées.  
5.67.   Aussi, nous réitérons notre volonté de promouvoir davantage le niveau de coopération avec 
ce pays frère, à la lumière de l'excellence des relations bilatérales que nous entretenons et du 
partenariat stratégique qui nous lie via le Conseil de la Coopération du Golfe. Tous les domaines 
d'intérêt commun, en particulier ceux de nature économique et co mmerciale, sont à renforcer en 
vue de raffermir les niveaux des échanges commerciaux et d'améliorer les opportunités 
d'investissement.  Le Royaume du Maroc souhaite au Sultanat d'Oman  un fructueux examen de sa 
politique commerciale . 
  WT/TPR/W/ 201 
 
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  6  CONCLUDING REMARKS BY THE CHAIRPERSON  
6.1.  Oman's third Trade Policy Review has provided us a good opportunity to examine its economic, 
trade, and investment developments since the previous Review. We have also learnt about the 
unique challenges caused by the COVID -19 pandemic that has impacted trade and the global 
economy.  
6.2.  I would like to thank the delegation from Muscat, headed by H.E. Mr Qais bin Mohammed al 
Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, for his remarks and participation 
from capital.  
6.3.  My apprec iation also goes to our discussant, H.E. Ambassador Mujtaba Piracha of Pakistan for 
his thoughtful comments and remarks. I thank the 26 delegations that took the floor during these 
two days and those that participated through the advance question and answe r process.  
6.4.  Members commended Oman on its generally overall open trade and investment regime. They 
observed that Oman had generally low tariffs and few non -tariff barriers to trade. As member of the 
GCC Customs Union, Oman applies a common external tariff,  and common legislation on customs 
procedures, valuation, and contingency measures.  
6.5.  Members recognized the double challenge arising from low oil prices and the COVID -19 
pandemic that Oman faced during the review period. Members were generally pleased with the policy 
measures taken by Oman to mitigate the impact of the pandemic, particularly on the most vulnerable 
in the society. Members were also pleased to know that the economy had begun to recover in 2021. 
In the context of the COVID -19 pandemic, many Mem bers were interested in learning more about 
Oman's recently adopted practice of approving so -called "direct" imports from certain countries, 
versus imports that arrive in Oman with an intermediate stop, to speed up the clearance process 
and reduce costs.  
6.6.  Members recalled that diversification away from hydrocarbons had remained a top priority for 
Oman and encouraged it to continue this policy in the future. Members wished to know more about 
Oman's efforts of diversification and digital transformation. In th is context, many Members 
welcomed the launch of "Vision 2040" and the long -term goals included in the 10th Five-Year Plan. 
They strongly believe that the twelve national priorities and their performance indicators would help 
Oman achieve a more diversified  and sustainable economy in the long run, and could help Oman 
achieve developed country status by 2040. With regard to Oman's diversification plans, many 
Members underlined the need for a further reduction of state ownership though privatization.  
6.7.  Members c ommended Oman for its strong commitment to the multilateral trading system and 
its active WTO participation, including for its engagement in the negotiations on fisheries subsidies 
and its track record in submitting notifications. They congratulated Oman f or ratifying the Trade 
Facilitation Agreement, and for having officially implemented 100% of its commitments under the 
Agreement since 2020. At the same time, several Members encouraged Oman to join Joint 
Statement Initiatives, notably on e -commerce and do mestic services regulation, and to become 
party to the Government Procurement Agreement (GPA). Many Members also recognized Oman's 
participation in regional integration, such as the Gulf Cooperation Council and the Pan -Arab-Free 
Trade Area.  
6.8.  Foreign investm ent had featured prominently in many interventions and in the advance written 
questions. Members congratulated Oman for its improvements towards a stable investment 
environment. In particular, they applauded Oman for the adoption of the Commercial Companie s 
Law and the new Foreign Capital Investment Law adopted in 2020, and specifically for the abolition 
of foreign ownership limits.  
6.9.  They noted that reforms related to foreign capital investment, privatization, public -private 
partnerships, and bankruptcy, ha d improved the business environment and led to higher inflows of 
foreign investment. However, remaining investment regulations on inspection and monitoring 
procedures, as well as the prohibition of land ownership by foreigners were seen as potential 
obstac les to a higher inflow of FDI.  WT/TPR /W/201 
 
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  6.10.   On sectoral policies, some Members wished to learn more about incentives for the agricultural 
sector, and how challenges such as declining soil quality as well as scarcity and salinization of 
irrigation water could be overcom e. With regard to the tourism sector, some Members mentioned 
that this sector could be key to the diversification program and a source of significant employment. 
However, heavy state involvement and foreign investment restrictions remained in place which 
inhibit the inflow of foreign investment to this sector. Given Oman's geographic location, the 
potential of transport and logistics for economic diversification was also highlighted.  
6.11.   Other issues of interest for some Members included: IPR protection, the participation of 
women in the economy; the design of the excise tax on carbonated beverages; free zones and 
special economic zones; public procurement procedures; import licensing procedures; standards for 
imported halal products; applied r ates exceeding bound rates on 26 tariff lines; and measures to 
create jobs for the younger generation.  
6.12.   These were the main areas of discussion at this review that has allowed us to gain a better 
understanding of Oman's trade, investment, and related polici es. Oman received over 240 advance 
written questions and it was commended for having replied to most of them prior to this meeting.  
6.13.    In a month's time, Oman is expected to reply to any late submissions and follow -up questions 
at which time the third Trade Policy Review of Oman will successfully conclude.  
6.14.   May I therefore add my word of congratulations to Oman on the successful conclusion of its 
third Trade Policy Review and thank all the delegations for their cooperation and assistance.  
 
__________