SOHAR Port and Freezone Drives Oman's Exports Growth

Strategic Insights -

Oman's maritime shipping sector is playing a crucial role in driving the country's exports growth, with recent figures showing steady expansion in international markets. Al Batinah North Governorate, home to the strategic SOHAR Port and Freezone, has emerged as a key driver of this momentum. A recent forum organized by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) highlighted the significance of logistics efficiency and international partnerships in unlocking greater opportunities for national exports. Government officials, business leaders, and logistics experts gathered to discuss how ports and maritime shipping can strengthen Oman's trade competitiveness.

Key Takeaways:

  • Oman's non-oil exports reached RO 1.618 billion in the first quarter of 2025, a growth of 8.6% compared to the same period in 2024.
  • Exports from Al Batinah North Governorate climbed to RO 676 million, a 37% increase, while container traffic through SOHAR Port and Freezone grew by 15% in 2024.
  • The Oman-US Free Trade Agreement offers customs exemptions and facilitates stronger entry for Omani goods into the world's most lucrative markets.
  • Eng Saeed al Abri, Chairman of OCCI Al Batinah North, emphasized the importance of investing in logistics efficiency and international partnerships to ensure Oman's products reach more markets and compete on a larger scale.
  • The diverse participation at the forum demonstrated how collective engagement and rising awareness can accelerate efforts to achieve sustainable economic growth in the Sultanate of Oman.
  • Business leaders and representatives from various companies and institutions highlighted the importance of stronger partnerships between the public and private sectors to boost Oman's competitiveness.

Statistics:

  • Oman's non-oil exports reached RO 1.618 billion in the first quarter of 2025, an increase of 8.6% compared to the previous year.
  • Exports from Al Batinah North Governorate amounted to RO 676 million, a 37% growth.
  • Container traffic through SOHAR Port and Freezone grew by 15% in 2024.
  • Exports from Oman reached RO 23 billion by the end of 2024, marking a 10% growth from 2023.
  • Exports valued at RO 10.683 billion by mid-2025.

Sources:

  • Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) Al Batinah North
  • Eng Saeed al Abri, Chairman of OCCI Al Batinah North
  • Oman government officials
  • Business leaders and representatives from various companies and institutions

Note: The figures and statistics mentioned in this analysis are based on the information provided in the original text.