Oman and India are poised to conclude a landmark Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), a deal expected to significantly boost trade, investments, and strategic cooperation between the two nations.
Speaking exclusively to the Times of Oman, Dr. Mohammed Ibrahim Al Zadjali, Founding Partner of Mohammed Ibrahim Law Firm, said the CEPA would “boost trade, attract investments, and open opportunities across sectors such as energy, technology, agriculture, and logistics. It represents a major step toward economic diversification and strategic cooperation.”
Negotiations began in November 2023 and have progressed at remarkable speed. The legal text is currently being translated into Arabic before review by both governments. In line with Article 54 of the Law of the Council of Oman, the agreement must be presented to the Majlis al-Shura for its opinion before final approval through a Royal Decree issued by His Majesty the Sultan.
Dr. Mohammed noted that India’s vast consumer base presents opportunities for Oman to expand exports in minerals, fertilizers, and seafood, while Oman’s strategic ports could serve as a vital gateway for Indian goods to the Middle East and Africa. The CEPA is also expected to boost Indian exports such as textiles, machinery, and IT services, while enhancing Omani access to Indian markets for natural gas and chemicals.
The agreement may also outline a gradual reduction in tariffs, improving market access and smoothing trade flows between the two economies.
“This is not only about the movement of goods across borders; it is also about long-term collaboration, skill-sharing, and investments that could benefit both nations,” Dr. Mohammed stressed. “It could create jobs for Omanis, facilitate knowledge transfer, and strengthen people-to-people ties. Ultimately, the CEPA represents a win-win that could drive prosperity and stability amid an uncertain global economy.”