The Oman-Philippines investment forum opened in Cebu, Philippines, marking a historic step toward stronger economic ties between the two nations. His Excellency, Foreign Minister Sayyid Badr Albusaidi, delivered an inspiring keynote address to kick off the event.
This forum signifies a bold shift in the Oman-Philippines relationship, transforming decades of friendship into a dynamic economic partnership. Sayyid Badr praised the nearly 50,000 Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs) in Oman for strengthening bonds between the countries through trust, hard work, and cultural exchange.
On the contrary, He noted that Oman and the Philippines share values of modesty, hospitality, and tolerance, forming a strong foundation for collaboration. The forum aims to expand beyond traditional manpower relations, inviting businesses and investors to explore vast mutual opportunities.
Oman’s strategic location at the crossroads of East Africa, South Asia, and the Arabian Peninsula offers access to markets serving over two billion consumers. Vision 2040 drives its economic diversification through world-class infrastructure, free trade zones, and attractive investor incentives. Benefits include 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions, a stable currency, and unrestricted capital movement.
However, the Oman-Philippines investment forum highlighted key sectors open for partnerships. These include renewable energy, logistics, real estate, tourism, healthcare, food production, data centers, technology, AI, and robotics. Oman’s free trade agreements with the United States, Singapore, and the EFTA region strengthen its global position.
The Philippines also presents promising opportunities for Omani investors. Its growing economy thrives on innovation, a skilled workforce, and a vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. Strategic sectors such as agriculture, technology, infrastructure, and hospitality offer significant potential for collaboration.
Sayyid Badr invited participants to forge lasting economic bonds by creating joint ventures and sharing expertise. He emphasized that this cooperation builds on the people-to-people connections established by OFWs, laying a foundation for mutual prosperity.
Also, the Oman-Philippines investment forum marks a new chapter where both countries can grow together. Business leaders from both nations are encouraged to seize this opportunity and unlock the benefits of a flourishing economic partnership.
