Oman’s National E-Commerce Plan hits 70% completion

Muscat: The plan, designed to position the Sultanate as a regional hub for e-commerce, has already seen the successful implementation of 21 initiatives, compared to just 14 by the end of 2023.

The Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion confirmed that these initiatives are transforming Oman’s digital business landscape, with the number of e-commerce licenses soaring to 5,890 and 100 online stores now listed on the “Maroof Oman” platform.

Nasra bint Sultan Al Habsi, Director General of Commerce at the Ministry, highlighted that the plan is progressing with the support of various government agencies. The goal is clear: to make Oman a leading e-commerce center in the region, fostering new economic opportunities and accelerating growth.
One of the key elements of the plan is the new e-commerce regulatory framework, introduced through Ministerial Resolution 499/2023. This regulation is designed to support digital businesses by providing a legal and regulatory environment that protects both consumers and merchants, while reducing challenges faced by small and medium-sized businesses transitioning to the e-commerce space.

Azza bint Ibrahim Al Kindi, Director of the Department of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce, emphasized that the third year of implementing the National E-Commerce Plan has focused on overcoming supply and demand challenges, boosting awareness among commercial companies, and improving consumer understanding of online commerce.

Several important initiatives have been completed, including the development of trust marks for e-commerce companies, simplifying business registrations, and establishing technical platforms for online transactions. Other key developments involve creating specialized e-commerce hubs, enhancing logistics services, and supporting investments in e-commerce infrastructure.

With eight main axes covering everything from infrastructure and transportation to payments and legal frameworks, the National E-Commerce Plan aims to address a wide range of areas to ensure a thriving digital economy. By 2027, the plan aims to further elevate Oman’s position in global e-commerce, offering a more efficient, competitive, and innovative marketplace for both businesses and consumers.