Omani firms prepare to enter global export markets

More than 70 Omani companies along with members of government entities attended the first Trade Up best practice seminar and workshop organised by the Public Authority for Investment Promotion and Export Development (PAIPED) to gain insights on how to cater for international buyers.

The attendees gained in depth knowledge from industry experts into the direct correlation between creative marketing and packaging and a product's shelf life.

"PAIPED is focused on increasing the market share of Omani products in economies around the world," said Nasima Yahya Al Balushi, PAIPED Director General of Export Development. "Every year we participant in dozens of exhibitions and it is through these events that we have been able to assess how global companies successfully create their niche. Taking back these learnings, we have specially designed our latest series of Trade-up Seminars to help raise the profile of national products and increase non-oil exports."

Ambrose Anthony, General Manager of Muscat Heaters highlighted that current market trends are shifting and with that, local companies are in need for guidance on how to adapt to and mitigate these changes. He said, "There are many Omani brands that have the potential to expand into regional and international markets however lack the know-how and it is here that organizations like PAIPED add value. Our company is already active in theGCCand the Middle East and North Africa but with plans to expand into other markets, the shared experience of successful companies has helped us outline our next steps."

Building on this ambition, Issa Al Rawahi, Marketing Manager of Oman Fisheries explained that local companies are adopting export-oriented strategies. He said, "First impressions count and even the best product will not sell if the packaging does not attract the consumer. We aim to become a major player in the regional market and then target strategic overseas economies. By exploring new ways to enrich our business practices, from a marketing and packaging perspective we will attract new clients and grow further."

Rashid Amor Al Minji, Chairman of Al Haima Engineering Company commended PAIPED for its active role in bringing companies together on one platform to share their experience and industry best practices.

Additional Trade Up sessions are planned for later in the year, including advice on getting started on the journey towards becoming a successful exporter. Indeed, sessions will focus on how to remain competitive in a more sophisticated market.

Industry experts speaking at PAIPED Trade Up.