Business seminar to throw light on new India-Oman trade pact

Kochi: A business seminar aimed at providing exporters and the business community with insights into the provisions and benefits of the recently signed India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) will be held in Kochi at the Vivanta by Taj on February 26 at 10 am. The event is being hosted by the Federation of Indian Chambers of Commerce and Industries (FICCI) Kerala State Council , in partnership with the Foreign Investment Committee of Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), the Indo Gulf Middle East Chamber of Commerce (INMECC), CTIL, Ministry of Commerce, and the Industries Department of the Government of Kerala.

OCCI board member and head of the Omani delegation Abdul Latheef Uppala said, “The seminar will highlight trade and investment opportunities under the agreement. It will also enable stakeholders to explore partnerships and expand their global footprint.” Indian Ambassador to Oman HE G V Srinivas, senior Union and State Government officials, office bearers of the Centre for trade and Investment Law under the Central Ministry of Commerce, eminent industrialists and key personalities from the Indian and Omani business fraternity will address the gathering.

“The India–Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signed on December 18, 2025, marks a significant milestone in strengthening bilateral economic ties between India and Oman,” said Dr Davis Kallukaran, Managing Partner of Crowe Oman Auditors and Business Advisors. “The agreement is expected to substantially enhance trade flows, promote investments, and create new avenues of collaboration across key sectors.”

“The CEPA provides significant tariff reductions and improved market access, while reinforcing Oman’s strategic role as a gateway to the GCC region, Central Asia, and East Africa. The agreement opens up promising opportunities in sectors such as IT, Healthcare, Education, Oil & Natural Gas, Food Processing, Logistics, Tourism, and more. It is also expected to catalyse two-way investments and foster stronger economic cooperation between the two nations, Dr Davis added.

Business leaders from both India and the Sultanate of Oman are slated to attend the event.