The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) has launched a significant new initiative, “Tamkeen,” designed to bolster the capabilities of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and increase their participation in the nation’s economic development. This launch, occurring on December 16th, signifies a concerted effort to empower the private sector and drive forward the goals of Oman Vision 2040. The initiative is a collaborative effort involving the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority, and the SMEs Development Authority (Riyada).
Tamkeen Initiative: Empowering Omani SMEs
The “Tamkeen” initiative emerged from a developmental workshop focused on the strategic direction of the OCCI, with a clear mandate to serve the private sector. This direction is built upon three core pillars: fostering a more conducive business environment, expanding economic diversification beyond traditional sectors, and strengthening partnerships to promote economic growth across all of Oman’s governorates. At its heart, Tamkeen aims to equip Omani SMEs with the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully navigate the government procurement and tendering landscape.
The program will roll out two comprehensive training programs in 2025 and 2026, reaching businesses throughout the Sultanate. A key objective is to enable SMEs to effectively capitalize on the 10% share of government procurement and tenders specifically allocated to them. This increased participation is expected to fuel their growth, enhance their sustainability, and contribute significantly to national projects.
A Collaborative Approach to Private Sector Growth
H.E. Sheikh Faisal bin Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the OCCI, emphasized the importance of Tamkeen as a crucial step in the Chamber’s ongoing commitment to private sector empowerment. He highlighted the rapidly evolving business landscape and the need for SMEs to be prepared to compete effectively.
“The effective participation of small and medium enterprises in the government procurement system and national projects has become a fundamental pillar for their growth and business sustainability,” stated H.E. Al Rawas. He further explained that investing in the capabilities of business owners and SMEs is a direct investment in the future of Oman’s economy. The training programs will focus on practical expertise and best practices, improving the quality and competitiveness of bids submitted by Omani companies.
The collaboration between the OCCI and supporting entities was also lauded as a model for public-private partnerships. This synergy is expected to drive transparency, expand opportunities, and ultimately contribute to the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, particularly those related to enhancing local content and diversifying income streams.
Institutional Integration and the Role of the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority
H.E. Eng. Badr bin Salim Al Maamari, Chairman of the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority, underscored the significance of “Tamkeen” as a demonstration of institutional integration. He explained how the initiative will enhance SME readiness and enable them to compete effectively within the government’s project and procurement systems.
The Authority’s role within Tamkeen centers on providing SMEs with a thorough understanding of tendering mechanisms, registration requirements, and best practices for bid preparation. This support aims to ensure a level playing field and transparent procedures, allowing SMEs to fully benefit from their allocated share in government contracts and secure a stronger presence in national projects. This focus on fair competition is vital for fostering a thriving Omani economy.
Qualitative Initiatives and the Vision for 2040
Zakariya bin Abdullah Al Saadi, Chief Executive Officer of the OCCI, positioned the “Tamkeen” initiative as a direct outcome of the Chamber’s strategic planning. In February, the OCCI launched 14 qualitative initiatives, in partnership with the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit, all designed to support the private sector and contribute to the national economy.
These initiatives are being implemented with a clear methodology, focused on strengthening the OCCI’s role in serving its members. Al Saadi emphasized that SMEs are not merely a supporting component of the economy, but a key driver of development, innovation, job creation, and the enhancement of national supply chains. The “Tamkeen” initiative is therefore crucial in enabling these businesses to confidently participate in major national projects and contribute to sustainable economic growth.
Implementing Tamkeen: Training and the “Esnad” Platform
The initial phase of the “Tamkeen” initiative commenced on December 16th with the first training program held at the OCCI headquarters in Muscat Governorate. Experts from the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority led sessions on bid preparation and company registration on the “Esnad” platform.
Khalid bin Juma Al Shukaili, representing the Projects, Tenders and Local Content Authority, provided a detailed overview of the “Esnad” platform – an electronic service designed to streamline government tender management. The platform enhances efficiency, transparency, and accuracy in the tender process. Crucially, it supports SMEs through policies that reserve 10% of government procurement for them, mandate at least 10% subcontracting through main contractors, and limit competition for certain tenders to SMEs only (those valued at OMR 25,000 or less). Currently, over 5,000 SMEs are registered on the Esnad platform.
The training program will continue across all of Oman’s governorates, including South Al Batinah, Al Dakhiliyah, Al Wusta, Al Dhahirah, Al Buraimi, North Al Sharqiyah, Musandam, Dhofar, and South Al Sharqiyah.
In conclusion, the “Tamkeen” initiative represents a significant investment in the future of Oman’s private sector. By equipping SMEs with the necessary skills and knowledge to compete for and win government contracts, the OCCI, in collaboration with key partners, is paving the way for a more diversified, sustainable, and robust Omani economy, directly supporting the ambitious goals of Oman Vision 2040. Businesses are encouraged to actively participate in the upcoming training programs and leverage the resources available through the Esnad platform to unlock their full potential.
