Salalah, Oman – September 2024 – The Oman American Business Council (OABC) successfully hosted an engaging event in Salalah, in collaboration with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry Dhofar Governorate and the U.S. Embassy Muscat, Consular Section. The event, held at OCCI Salalah on September 1st, provided a valuable opportunity for companies interested in exploring business opportunities in or with the United States.

The morning session featured a presentation from the U.S. Embassy Muscat Consular Section, which offered guidance on U.S. Business Visa services. The team took time to explain each step, and answered all questions from attendees.  Additionally, OABC’s team gave an overview of the history of the US Oman FTA, key provisions of the FTA, success stories of Omani companies exporting to the United States and an overview of OABC’s trade services, including the Export Compass and Gateway USA programs, which are designed to facilitate trade and investment between Oman and the United States.

 

A significant focus of the event was on untapped potential: ways for Omani companies to take advantage of the U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement (FTA). The FTA, one of only four such agreements in the entire MENA region, offers unique opportunities for Omani businesses to enter the U.S. market competitively. The discussion highlighted opportunities to create a more favorable environment for Omani exports. The event also underscored potential growth in exporting medical devices and certain produce items from the Dhofar region to the U.S. market.

“We are delighted with the strong interest shown by the business community in Salalah, and we are grateful to Chairman Naif and his team at OCCI for welcoming us so warmly,” said Rebecca Olson, CEO of OABC. “Their collaboration and support made it clear that there will be many more opportunities for such meetings, as well as longer training sessions and programs, to be held in the future. The enthusiasm among Omani exporters for leveraging the U.S.-Oman Free Trade Agreement is evident, and we are committed to supporting our members in maximizing these opportunities to access the U.S. market and achieve mutual growth.”

The event attracted a diverse group of business leaders and entrepreneurs from across the Dhofar region, who were eager to learn more about practical strategies for accessing the U.S. market and the specific support available from OABC.

As the leading business association fostering economic relations between Oman and the United States, OABC continues to provide a robust platform for business networking, knowledge exchange, and trade facilitation. With a series of upcoming events and initiatives, OABC remains dedicated to helping companies navigate international trade and investment opportunities.

 

 

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