TDAP, Embassy of Pakistan in Oman facilitate REAP team’s visit
MUSCAT: The Trade Development Authority of Pakistan (TDAP), in collaboration with the Embassy of Pakistan in Oman, successfully organized a three-day visit of a delegation from the Rice Exporters Association of Pakistan (REAP) to Oman from April 27–29, 2026. The visit aimed to boost bilateral trade, particularly in the rice sector, and explore new avenues for cooperation between Pakistan and Oman.
The REAP delegation, comprising 18 members, commenced its engagements with a meeting at the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI), where they were warmly received by Chairman Sheikh Faisal Bin Abdullah Al Rawas. Both sides held detailed discussions on enhancing bilateral trade, with a particular focus on increasing Pakistan’s rice exports to Oman. The Chairman OCCI expressed keen interest in strengthening trade ties and announced plans to send a multi-sectoral delegation of Omani importers to Pakistan in the third week of May 2026. He also shared ongoing efforts to resolve the Oman visa restrictions for Pakistani nationals, expressing optimism for a positive outcome in the near future.
In collaboration with OCCI, the Pakistan Mission in Muscat organized a business networking event connecting REAP members with key stakeholders in Oman’s rice market. The event was attended by major importers, distributors, hypermarkets, and food companies. Presentations were delivered highlighting Pakistan’s rice production capacity and export potential, especially for the GCC market. The session concluded with productive B2B interactions, fostering direct engagement between Pakistani exporters and Omani buyers.
Recognizing logistical challenges in regional trade, the Pakistan Mission also facilitated a high-level meeting between the REAP delegation and representatives from shipping companies, Oman’s Ministry of Transport, port authorities, and logistics firms. Discussions focused on improving supply chains and addressing issues such as delays at Jebel Ali Port. Omani stakeholders proposed practical and cost-effective solutions, including alternative routing through Omani ports to streamline exports to GCC destinations.
On April 29, the delegation met with Sheikh Salim Abdullah Al Ghufaili, Director General of the Food Security Authority under the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. The Authority plays a key role in procuring rice for Oman’s strategic reserves. The meeting aimed to familiarize Pakistani exporters with the Authority’s registration and procurement processes, encouraging broader participation in future tenders. The Director General agreed to organize an online session for Pakistani exporters to explain registration and inspection procedures. He also positively considered the proposal by REAP Chairman Faisal Jehangir to explore Gwadar Port operations as a viable logistics option for rice exports to Oman.
The visit marks a significant step toward strengthening trade relations between Pakistan and Oman, particularly in the agri-food sector. It underscores the commitment of both countries to fostering sustainable economic partnerships and unlocking new opportunities for mutual growth.
Copyright Business Recorder, 2026