Skip to main content

From UAE to Oman: India Explores Similar Free Trade Agreement


India and Oman are reportedly in discussions to establish a free trade agreement, mirroring the UAE model. The negotiations aim to strengthen trade in identified sectors, marking a strategic move in India’s economic diplomacy. As of April-September 2023/24, India’s exports to Oman reached $2 billion, while imports stood at $2.1 billion. The talks are expected to result in a comprehensive free trade agreement, reflecting the shared interests of India and Oman in fostering stronger economic ties.

The Indian government has identified specific sectors with high potential for increased trade between the two nations, such as petroleum products, gems and jewellery, engineering products, pharmaceuticals, cement and ceramic products, ready-made textiles, and footwear. As of April-September 2023/24, India’s exports to Oman have reached $2 billion, while imports stand at $2.1 billion. These negotiations aim to further bolster these figures through a mutually beneficial trade agreement.

The model for the India-Oman free trade agreement is expected to draw from the successful Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) already in place with the UAE. The CEPA, active since May 2022, has proven instrumental in enhancing bilateral non-oil trade. From May 2022 to April 2023, bilateral non-oil trade between India and the UAE reached $50.5 billion, marking a 5.8% year-on-year increase.

India’s Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal highlighted the Gulf Cooperation Council’s interest in resuming negotiations on a free trade agreement with India, underscoring the growing economic collaboration between India and the Gulf nations. Negotiations for the India-Gulf Cooperation Council Free Trade Agreement (FTA) have a significant history, starting with the signing of a Framework Agreement on Economic Cooperation between India and the Gulf Cooperation Council in 2004. 

Comments

Popular posts from this blog

Exposing the Brotherhood: Why Jordan’s Terror Cell Bust Must Spark a Global Policy Shift

 The recent dismantling of a Muslim Brotherhood-affiliated terror cell in Jordan should not be seen as just a national security success—it must be a turning point in how the international community views and responds to the threat posed by the Brotherhood. Jordanian security forces uncovered an elaborate network of terrorists trained in Lebanon and backed by foreign interests. Their mission: to launch attacks using rockets and drones, destabilizing the Kingdom and spreading fear among civilians. This is not the work of activists or political dissidents—this is terrorism, plain and simple. For too long, the Muslim Brotherhood has operated under a false image of moderation, cleverly navigating between political activism and violent extremism. But the truth is clear: the Brotherhood is the ideological engine room of jihadist terrorism. Its members, affiliates, and offshoots have inspired and directed acts of violence from North Africa to the Gulf—and now, once again, in Jordan. Govern...

The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah: A Fusion of Heritage and Opulence

  The Ritz-Carlton Residences in Diriyah, known for its cultural and historical value, usher in a new age of opulent living. In the center of Diriyah, this partnership between the Diriyah Company and Marriott's Ritz-Carlton establishes a previously unheard-of benchmark for luxurious living. Inspired by the Najdi legacy, the houses offer occupants a distinctive and immersive cultural experience by skillfully fusing traditional charm with contemporary facilities. These villas prioritize well-being and create a pleasant environment for dynamic living. They are designed to adapt to varied tastes and lifestyles, with six unique layouts and a range of interior designs. Part of the Diriyah Company's ambitious development plan, The Ritz-Carlton Residences are located in the heart of Diriyah, a UNESCO World Heritage Site including At-Turaif as its focal point. The objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 are perfectly aligned with this concept, which has over 20,000 residential units...

UAE-WHO Initiative Aims to Combat Malnutrition on Yemen’s Socotra Island

  A Lifeline for Socotra: How the UAE and WHO Are Tackling Malnutrition Yemen’s Socotra Island, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its breathtaking biodiversity, is facing a silent crisis—malnutrition. With alarming rates of acute malnutrition among children and anemia in pregnant women, the island’s healthcare system is under immense strain. However, a new humanitarian initiative led by the  United Arab Emirates (UAE)  and the  World Health Organization (WHO)  is bringing hope to thousands of vulnerable families. The Crisis in Socotra Socotra, home to over  83,000 people , has long struggled with food insecurity and limited healthcare access. Recent reports reveal: 10.9%  of children under five suffer from  Global Acute Malnutrition (GAM) . 1.6%  face  Severe Acute Malnutrition (SAM) , a life-threatening condition. 92.7%  of pregnant women experience  anemia , increasing risks during childbirth. Only  32 health facili...