The inaugural Oman-Pakistan Business Forum concluded successfully in Muscat, significantly enhancing bilateral ties and resulting in millions of dollars in export orders for Pakistani businesses, according to Pakistan state media.
The two-day event attracted over 1,000 participants, including 172 delegates from Pakistan representing diverse sectors such as textiles, sports, pharmaceuticals, and more.
Organized by the Embassy of Pakistan in Oman, the Expo showcased 64 Pakistani business houses from 10 categories, including textiles, clothing, fashion apparel, agricultural products, surgical instruments, sports goods, pharmaceuticals, handicrafts, and hotel investment, all under one roof for the first time in Oman.
Pakistan’s Ambassador highlights bilateral cooperation
Pakistan’s Ambassador to Oman His Excellency Imran Ali emphasized the forum’s focus on fostering bilateral cooperation across sectors such as commerce, health, and entrepreneurship. “The participation of numerous business leaders and officials raised expectations for potential joint projects and investment ventures between Oman and Pakistan,” he stated.
Pakistan and Oman trade potential
Inaugurated by Faisal Bin Abdullah Al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, the forum showcased the potential for increased trade, currently valued at just $694 million. Ambassador Ali expressed commitment to making this an annual event, signaling a strong future for economic partnership between Oman and Pakistan.
Ambassador of Pakistan to Oman Imran Ali Chaudhry, who moderated discussions for aspiring entrepreneurs, announced the formation of a committee to assist businesses seeking to enter the Omani market. The trade between the two nations currently stands at just $694 million, highlighting significant potential for growth.
Investment Opportunities in Oman
The event also explored investment opportunities in Pakistan, with a panel discussion focusing on the legal frameworks that facilitate cross-border investments between the two countries. The discussion aimed to deepen understanding and build investor confidence in the potential for future collaborations.
Faisal Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), stressed the importance of boosting trade and investment between the two nations. “Joint projects and increased trade between our two nations will contribute significantly to economic diversification,” he remarked.
Mohammed Shoaib, Marketing Manager at Shahabi Trading, expressed optimism about the future of trade relations. “We hope Pakistan will improve its export of food grains to Oman, and we thank the embassy for organizing this event. This forum and exhibition reflect the growing trade relationship between Oman and Pakistan, fostering stronger business ties for the future,” he said.

Special Economic Zones and Free Zones in Oman
A key feature of the forum was a presentation by Oman’s Public Authority for Special Economic Zones and Free Zones (OPAZ), which detailed the array of investment opportunities and incentives available for foreign investors in Oman’s special economic zones. The presentation underscored Oman’s appeal as a regional hub for foreign direct investment, highlighting the strategic advantages of setting up businesses in these areas.
The Oman-Pakistan Business Forum highlighted the significant role of free zones in facilitating trade and investment between the two countries. These zones provide a strategic advantage for Pakistani businesses, offering benefits such as 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, and simplified customs procedures.
During the expo, participants were informed about the advantages of setting up operations in these free zones, which can enhance market access and reduce operational costs. This focus on free zones underscores the potential for increased collaboration, enabling Pakistani companies to tap into Oman’s growing market while contributing to the diversification of its economy.