Envoy highlights importance of diversifying Pakistan’s exports to Oman.
Published on: May 30, 2024.
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Consul General of the Sultanate of Oman, Eng. Sami Abdullah Al Khanjari, praised the quality of rice from Pakistan and expressed the intention to increase imports from the country. Currently, Oman imports 60 percent of its rice from Pakistan, but it also wants to explore opportunities for exporting other agricultural products to Oman, such as onions, potatoes, lentils, and mangoes.
Oman has been importing rice from Pakistan since 1982 and has a high appreciation for the quality of Pakistani rice. However, it also imports various other products such as sugar, textiles, towels, and more from countries like Turkey, China, India, and Australia. The Consul General encouraged the business community in Karachi to consider exporting these products to Oman as well.
During a meeting at the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry, officials from the Omani Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources discussed the importance of collaboration between Oman and Pakistan in different sectors of the economy. They stressed the need for regular expos and trade delegations to enhance understanding and explore new trade opportunities.
The Omani officials also invited the business community to visit Oman and explore further trade possibilities, including exporting to African countries. Recognizing the trade potential, they expressed their interest in visiting Pakistan annually to identify potential products for export to Oman.
President of KCCI, Iftikhar Ahmed Sheikh, welcomed the Omani Consul General and emphasized the strong bond between Pakistan and Oman, based on cultural practices, religious beliefs, and extensive social interactions. He highlighted the need to increase bilateral trade and reduce trade barriers, promote SMEs, and simplify customs procedures to boost economic integration.
Sheikh also suggested exploring opportunities for importing LNG and petroleum products from Oman to address Pakistan’s energy sector challenges. He emphasized the potential for Omani investors to explore investments in Special Economic Zones in Karachi and Gwadar, as well as in sectors like energy, agriculture, livestock, IT, and minerals.
The President of KCCI also emphasized the importance of promoting people-to-people contact, exchange of trade delegations, and participation in each other’s fairs and exhibitions to strengthen bilateral trade and economic ties.
Overall, the meeting between Omani officials and the Karachi Chamber of Commerce & Industry highlighted the desire to deepen economic cooperation and expand trade between Oman and Pakistan. The potential for exporting not only rice but also various agricultural products and other goods presents an opportunity for both countries to further strengthen their trade relationship.
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