Pakistani Investors Encouraged to Discover Opportunities in Oman Market
Published on: December 3, 2023.
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Consul General of Oman Urges Pakistan to Increase Trade and Investment
KARACHI: The Consul General of Oman, Sami Abdullah Salim AlKhanjari, recently addressed the members of the Karachi Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KCCI), expressing his disappointment over the lack of investment from Pakistan despite their close relations. AlKhanjari highlighted the significant investments made by countries like China, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and India in Oman’s five ports: Salalah, Qalhat, Sohar, Duqm, and Sultan Qaboos. He emphasized that Pakistan, despite its proximity, has not made substantial investments in Oman.
While Saudi Arabia has invested more than $1 billion and India is also making good investments, Pakistan is noticeably absent in terms of trade and investment. AlKhanjari urged the Pakistani business community to explore opportunities in exporting a wider range of agricultural products, such as onions, chillies, carrots, and lemons, to Oman. These products, which are already being imported by Oman from distant countries like China, Vietnam, Australia, New Zealand, Ethiopia, and Somalia, can easily be sourced from Pakistan and reach Oman in a fresh state.
The Consul General highlighted the potential for the export of Pakistani rice, which is renowned for its quality. He also mentioned the demand for both frozen and live meat in Oman, signaling an opportunity for Pakistan to increase its exports of meat products. Additionally, he noted the potential in Pakistan’s textile and leather industries, particularly towels and garments, which currently aren’t being exported to Oman.
Addressing concerns regarding visas, AlKhanjari assured the audience that efforts were being made to introduce a ‘One Visa’ system for all GCC countries, similar to the Schengen visa. Although there are some security issues to be resolved, the Consul General expressed optimism that the ‘One Visa’ facility would be launched soon.
In conclusion, AlKhanjari emphasized the need for Pakistan to strengthen its trade and investment ties with Oman. Exporting a wider variety of agricultural products, tapping into the demand for rice and meat, and exploring opportunities in the textile and leather industries could significantly boost the bilateral trade volume between the two nations.
Source: [Dawn](https://www.dawn.com)
