The Omani-Lebanese Economic Forum and its accompanying exhibition have commenced at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre in Muscat, marking a significant step towards strengthening economic relations and expanding cooperation in trade, industry, and investment between the two nations. The event aims to translate long-standing commercial ties into actionable partnerships and sustainable economic growth.
A Vision for Deeper Integration
In his opening address, H E Qais Mohammed al Yousef, Oman’s Minister of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, emphasized the deep-rooted commercial, cultural, and historical exchanges between Oman and Lebanon. He expressed ambitions for the forum to foster joint initiatives and promote deeper integration, building a competitive economy that engages with global markets and adapts to change. His Lebanese counterpart, Dr Amer Bisat, Minister of Economy and Trade, echoed this sentiment, highlighting that the bilateral relationship is founded on mutual respect and a shared belief in economic cooperation as a driver for development and stability.
Actionable Framework for Partnership
Dr. Bisat outlined a three-pronged strategy to elevate discussions into tangible outcomes. The first priority is to establish a permanent joint economic committee to ensure follow-up on the forum’s results and translate them into actionable agreements. The second track involves creating dedicated platforms to connect the private sectors of both countries, facilitating partnerships and knowledge exchange in value-added sectors. Finally, he encouraged companies to actively leverage the bilateral meetings organised during the forum to forge genuine and sustainable business relationships.
Private Sector Takes Center Stage
Faisal Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, positioned the forum as a critical opportunity for the private sector. He noted that beyond showcasing products, the event serves as a platform for businesses and investors to form long-term collaborations. This was supported by the launch of the Lebanese-Omani Economic, Commercial and Industrial Exhibition, featuring over 100 companies from sectors like industry, food, tourism, and logistics. The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry also facilitated direct bilateral meetings between Omani and Lebanese business leaders to accelerate the formation of commercial and investment partnerships.
By the Numbers: Lebanese Investment in Oman
The forum underscores a growing economic synergy, as reflected in official data. As of September 2025, the number of Lebanese companies registered in Oman has surpassed 1,035, with a total capital investment of RO191.5 million. Lebanese investments constitute approximately 80% of this total, with a strong concentration in key sectors such as trade and retail, construction, manufacturing, transport, and food services.
About The Omani-Lebanese Economic Forum
The Omani-Lebanese Economic Forum is a joint initiative designed to enhance economic cooperation, trade, and investment between the Sultanate of Oman and Lebanon. Organized by Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and Lebanon’s Ministry of Economy and Trade, in collaboration with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Lebanon, the event brings together government officials, business leaders, and investors to explore strategic partnerships across sectors like technology, tourism, industry, and agriculture.
Source: Muscat Daily
