Oman Advances Trade and Logistics Under National Logistics Strategy 2040
Muscat – The Sultanate of Oman is advancing trade facilitation and logistics efficiency through the National Logistics Strategy 2040, focusing on streamlined customs procedures, digital trade, and strategic port development.
Oman’s key seaports — Sohar, Duqm, and Salalah — play a central role in linking the country to regional and global markets. Ongoing infrastructure upgrades and digital enhancements have strengthened operational efficiency to meet growing trade volumes.
The Royal Oman Police, through the General Directorate of Customs, has modernized administrative and technical processes, shifting to fully electronic operations via the “Bayan” system. This system integrates 74 government and private entities, offering 496 electronic services including pre-clearance, electronic payments, tax refunds, and temporary import requests.
These reforms helped Oman lead GCC countries in the World Bank’s Cross-Border Trade Index in the Doing Business 2020 report. Key achievements include infrastructure improvements at Sohar Port, electronic risk management inspections, and robust customs audit mechanisms.
To further streamline cargo movement, the General Directorate of Customs launched the Secure Customs Corridor, connecting ports, free zones, and economic zones, including Salalah Free Zone, Sohar Free Zone, and Duqm Special Economic Zone. The initiative also links airports and customs warehouses through secure channels.
The Directorate introduced the Electronic Air Waybill, enabling air carriers to submit shipping documents digitally, accelerating cargo clearance and simplifying procedures.
E-commerce in Oman has grown rapidly, fueled by online shopping and enhanced digital infrastructure. The market was estimated at US$575 million in mid-2023 and is projected to reach US$1.1 billion by 2028, with internet penetration above 90 percent. Digital payment initiatives have increased electronic transactions by 40 percent, supported by national payment gateways and digital wallets.
Oman is also collaborating with neighboring countries to simplify cross-border e-commerce, drawing on regional best practices to regulate international parcel flows.
Eng. Abdullah bin Ali Al Busaidi, Director General of the Oman Logistics Center, said the government aims to enhance trade volumes through an integrated logistics system that improves port efficiency, border crossings, transport connectivity, and digital solutions.
Omar bin Mahmoud Al Mahrazi, CEO of Asyad Ports and Free Zones, highlighted that Omani ports now connect to 86 commercial ports in 40 countries through around 200 weekly shipping services, strengthening Oman’s role as a global logistics hub.
He noted that pre-clearance systems via the Bayan portal enable faster release of goods, reduced inspections, and lower storage costs. Combined with investment incentives and advanced infrastructure, Oman continues to reinforce its position as a competitive logistics and trade center in line with the National Logistics Strategy 2040.
