Muscat Hosts Oman-US FTA Joint Committee

The Joint Committee overseeing the Free Trade Agreement (FTA) between Oman and the United States convened on Thursday at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion to review key aspects of the agreement and explore ways to enhance bilateral trade ties.

The Omani side was led by Pankaj Khimji, Advisor for Foreign Trade and International Cooperation at the ministry, while the US delegation was chaired by H E Ana Escrogima, US Ambassador to Oman.

The meeting marked the committee’s first session in a decade, signaling a renewed commitment to strengthening strategic economic cooperation between the two nations. Discussions focused on the implementation of the FTA’s provisions, market access for goods, customs issues, and environmental cooperation.

Khimji highlighted the significance of the meeting, especially in light of the recent imposition of a 10% tariff on Omani imports to the US. He emphasised the importance of dialogue in resolving trade disagreements and ensuring mutual benefit under the agreement.

H E Escrogima described the session as a valuable opportunity to bring together specialists and experts to address key issues and reflect on shared aspirations to deepen economic engagement and deliver lasting benefits to citizens of both countries.

Also participating in the discussions was Khalid Alshuaibi, President of Oman’s National Investment Program & Export Development (Nazdaher). He noted the importance of addressing global tariff policies, anti-dumping measures, subsidies, and duties on key exports like aluminum and iron. Alshuaibi also underscored the potential for greater private sector involvement in trade-related events hosted in the US.

The meeting reaffirmed the mutual commitment of Oman and the US to a rules-based trading system and to fostering stronger, more resilient economic ties through open and constructive engagement.