Oman, U.S. Trade Officials Discuss Free Trade Agreement Implementation in Muscat

Muscat, The Gulf Observer: The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) hosted a high-level meeting in Muscat on Wednesday with representatives from the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR) to evaluate the implementation of the Oman–United States Free Trade Agreement (FTA) and address current trade-related challenges.

The discussions focused on identifying key obstacles hindering Omani exporters and importers from fully leveraging the agreement’s provisions, particularly U.S.-imposed tariffs on select Omani goods. Participants emphasized the need for a reassessment of these tariffs to ensure a more balanced and beneficial trade environment for both parties.

A central topic of the meeting was the anticipated launch of Oman’s new commercial office in the United States, which is expected to begin operations in the near future. The office is set to serve as a pivotal platform for enhancing the export of Omani products to the U.S. market while simultaneously attracting American investments and increasing U.S. exports to Oman.

Alongside the main meeting, a dedicated workshop brought together Omani and American exporters, importers, and investors to identify and discuss practical barriers affecting trade and investment activities between the two countries.

Faisal Abdullah Al Rowas, Chairman of the OCCI Board of Directors, underscored the strategic importance of the FTA in strengthening Oman’s economic position and expanding access for Omani products in the U.S. market. He called for increased coordination between government institutions and the private sector to ensure the agreement yields maximum benefits.

Al Rowas also reaffirmed OCCI’s commitment to monitoring and addressing the challenges facing Omani private sector firms in penetrating international markets, including the U.S., by promoting solutions that support the smooth movement of goods and services in line with global standards.

The session was attended by senior U.S. trade officials, including the Assistant U.S. Trade Representative for Europe and the Middle East and the Director for European and Middle Eastern Affairs at USTR.

The meeting represents a continued effort to deepen bilateral trade relations and ensure the Oman–U.S. Free Trade Agreement remains a dynamic and effective instrument for economic cooperation.