Economic Legislation Discussed at North Al Batinah Trade and Law Forum
Sohar, 22 May (ONA) — Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) branch in North Al Batinah Governorate today hosted the Trade and Law Forum, titled “Be a Merchant Within the Law," which examined the role of legislation in regulating economic activity and fostering a fair and transparent business environment.
Dr. Ali Salim Al Badi, Head of the Legislation and Laws Study Committee, highlighted the efforts of OCCI’s North Al Batinah branch in emphasizing the importance of legislation as a catalyst for economic growth. He noted that these laws empower merchants with the tools to understand and rationally engage with legal texts, particularly as Oman advances under Oman Vision 2040—an ambitious roadmap aimed at building a diversified and sustainable economy.
The forum, held under the patronage of Mohammed Sulaiman Al Kindi, Governor of North Al Batinah, featured several working papers. Dr. Hamad Khamis Al Jahwari, Head of the Court of Appeal in Al Buraimi, delivered a presentation on the Royal Decree establishing the Investment and Commerce Court. He explained that this specialized court will provide a stable legal environment to attract foreign investment and enhance the competitiveness of Oman’s economy.
He also addressed Oman’s specialized judiciary, including the commercial courts responsible for resolving trade disputes and arbitration requests, as well as the criminal courts handling misdemeanors and felonies.
Meanwhile, Azza Ibrahim Al Kindi, Director of the Department of Commercial Affairs and E-Commerce at the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion, outlined the ministry’s efforts to advance e-commerce through regulatory frameworks and the national e-commerce strategy.
The forum also included a panel discussion on streamlining customs procedures at ports, focusing on inter-institutional coordination, simplifying processes in line with trade laws, and the role of technical systems in safeguarding rights and ensuring efficiency.
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