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In a bid to promote domestic industries and stimulate economic growth, Oman’s Tender Board has made a significant announcement that underscores the Government’s resolve to support local products and services. The move comes as part of Oman’s broader strategy to reduce dependency on imports and encourage local industries. 

The Tender Board in coordination with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion have complied a list of Omani products and services which will be included in all tenders and government procurements.  Initially, the list will include nine categories of products amounting to a total of 57 items, whereas the services list contains 11 categories with a total of 96 services. The products list covers building materials, electrical appliances, oil equipment, steel products, foodstuff, plastic products, paper tools, furniture, petroleum, and chemical materials. The list of services includes, among other things, electrical works, civil and construction works, traffic safety and general maintenance of buildings, primary equipment on the job site, engineering and professional designing, information technology, manpower services, supply of machinery and equipment, supply and transfer of cables and general supplies and services.

The Tender Board’s announcement revolves around a series of measures aimed at prioritising local products in government procurement processes. This shift towards supporting local products is a strategic move aimed to foster economic growth in Oman and create more jobs locally.

This further signals the Government’s commitment to promote local businesses, particularly small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). With increased opportunities to secure Government contracts, the SMEs can expand their market presence and contribute more substantially to the economy. 

Earlier, ICV requirements were provided for by contract and were not a legal requirement. With the Tender Board announcement, ICV requirements will now be mandatorily set out in the tenders floated in respect of government procurement. 

By providing a conducive environment for local businesses to participate in Government procurement, Oman is charting a course toward a more sustainable and prosperous future. The success of this initiative would however depend on the local industries’ ability to be price competitive and meet increased demand while maintaining high standards of product quality.