Muscat – The Omani-Lebanese Economic Forum and its exhibition opened at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. The event aimed to strengthen economic relations and expand cooperation in trade, industry, and investment between Oman and Lebanon.
Qais Mohammed al Yousef, Minister of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, highlighted the long-standing commercial ties between the two nations. He explained that these ties had fostered cultural, intellectual, and historical exchanges. Consequently, they created an environment conducive to collaboration across generations.
Furthermore, he expressed hope that the forum would inspire greater ambitions in joint initiatives. He emphasised the importance of building a competitive economy that interacts with global markets. He also added that adaptation to change would contribute to both nations’ long-term sustainability.
Meanwhile, Lebanese Minister of Economy and Trade, Dr Amer Bisat, said the bilateral relationship is built on mutual respect. He added that both countries share a belief that economic cooperation drives development and stability. He explained that the forum provides a platform to transform these ties into practical partnerships and productive projects.
Dr Bisat outlined three priorities. First, establishing a permanent joint economic committee to follow up on forum outcomes and implement actionable agreements. Second, creating platforms to connect private sectors in both countries, share opportunities, and exchange technical expertise. Third, encouraging companies to use bilateral meetings to form genuine and sustainable partnerships.
Faisal Abdullah al Rawas, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said the forum reflects a shared vision to enhance economic cooperation. He also noted that it allows private sector participants to exchange expertise and explore investment prospects. Moreover, he explained that such events go beyond showcasing products. They provide platforms to form long-term collaborations.
The forum discussions focused on investment opportunities in industry, tourism, services, technology, agriculture, and trade. In addition, participants explored strategies to enhance cooperation and develop partnerships that support economic growth.
The event was jointly organised by Oman’s Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and Lebanon’s Ministry of Economy and Trade. It also involved the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry and the Federation of Chambers of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Lebanon. Numerous investment institutions, industrial companies, and service providers participated.
Official data shows Lebanese companies in Oman exceeded 1,035 by September 2025. Total capital investment reached RO191.5 million. Lebanese investments accounted for around 80% of this total, mainly in trade, retail, construction, manufacturing, transport, and food services.
On the opening day, the forum featured a visual presentation on investment opportunities. Several specialised working sessions followed. Simultaneously, the Lebanese-Omani Economic, Commercial and Industrial Exhibition showcased products from over 100 companies in industry, food, tourism, and logistics. The exhibition aimed to foster partnerships and explore investment opportunities.
Finally, the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry facilitated bilateral meetings between Omani and Lebanese business leaders. These sessions promoted direct communication, established long-term partnerships, and translated discussions into practical projects to enhance trade and diversify exports.
