The Omani delegation, led by H.E. Qais bin Mohammed Al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, recently concluded its visit to the United States. The delegation engaged in bilateral meetings with U.S. officials and representatives from various American companies across sectors like manufacturing, energy, healthcare, information technology, tourism, and financial services. The aim of the visit was to enhance Oman’s commercial ties with the U.S. by leveraging regional and international experiences to develop trade, industry, and investment frameworks in line with Oman’s Vision 2040.
The visit began in New York, where the delegation met with partners in financial services, investment, and companies from targeted sectors. They also engaged with Omani students studying in New York and Massachusetts. In Washington, D.C., the delegation held discussions with U.S. officials from the State Department, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, the Department of Commerce, and members of Congress. Talks focused on maximizing the benefits of the Oman-U.S. Free Trade Agreement and enhancing various programs to strengthen trade ties.
During their visit, the delegation also visited the World Bank to review joint projects, specifically those related to the World Bank’s Business Readiness Index. Oman is set to be evaluated under this index by 2025, with oversight from Oman’s National Competitiveness Office through the “Nezdeher” program. The delegation discussed cooperation with the World Bank to appoint experts to improve Oman’s business environment and boost exports. In addition, they attended a reception at the Sultan Qaboos Cultural Center in Washington, attended by U.S. government representatives, investors, and Omani students.
Moving on to Arizona, the delegation met with the state’s trade authority to explore investment opportunities and ways to promote bilateral trade and investments between Oman and Arizona. Field visits to various companies were conducted, with many expressing interest in investing in Oman’s energy, hydrogen, medical, advanced industries, and information technology sectors. The delegation also visited the University of Arizona to meet Omani students and learn about the university’s role in partnering with the government and private sector for economic development projects.
The visit concluded in California, where the delegation examined the success of a leading Omani IT company that has expanded its operations across several U.S. states. Discussions were held on leveraging the Free Trade Agreement to attract diverse investments into Oman. The visit highlighted the significance of the Oman-U.S. Free Trade Agreement, especially as it marked its 15th anniversary since its implementation in 2009. The delegation’s efforts aimed to further expand investment and trade partnerships between the two nations, in alignment with Oman’s Vision 2040.
