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Oman and India Prepare to Seal Landmark Trade Pact

The Muscat advisory council will soon examine the planned Oman-India economic pact. This draft agreement could reshape trade and investment between the two nations. The expectation now builds around Oman-India economic pact as both governments look to deepen cooperation. Observers view it as a major step for future growth under Oman-India economic pact.

The advisory council will convene on Wednesday to consider the draft Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) between the government of the Sultanate of Oman and the government of the Republic of India. Officials referred the agreement to the council via the cabinet. 

Members will review a report from the council’s Economic and Financial Committee. The report details the pact’s articles, goals, and areas of cooperation. It also covers feedback and remarks from relevant authorities gathered during earlier consultations. 

In addition, the session will examine other proposals. For example, the council will consider a report from the Education, Research and Innovation Committee about rising behavioural issues among school students. The committee evaluated educational and technical aspects and will propose measures to improve school quality. 

Also under discussion: a proposal from the Media, Tourism and Culture Committee. That proposal aims to organise auctions for cultural heritage artefacts. The council will assess governance frameworks, auction mechanisms, and the cultural and social returns of such a sale. 

The CEPA has drawn attention because analysts expect it to boost trade, diversify the economy, and attract significant investment to Oman. Experts note that the pact could expand cooperation in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, services, logistics, and more. 

They argue the agreement may support economic diversification, increase exports (especially non-oil goods), and improve competitive advantages. The pact might also open doors for joint ventures, infrastructure projects, and improved trade flows between Oman and India. 

Supporters highlight how this agreement fits within broader regional strategies. Oman already seeks to attract foreign investment and strengthen its ports, free zones, and industrial capacity. The CEPA could accelerate those goals by connecting Oman with India’s large market and industrial base. 

However, the council’s review remains key. Members must carefully examine technical and economic implications from tariff structures to regulatory alignment, market access, and long-term benefits. The upcoming session will test whether the agreement meets Oman’s strategic interests.

In parallel, the council’s broader agenda shows its commitment to social and cultural issues. Addressing student behaviour, improving education quality, and safeguarding cultural heritage remain high priorities. This reflects a holistic approach to national development balancing economic ambition with social wellbeing and cultural preservation.

Overall, the CEPA review session signals a potential turning point. If the pact wins approval, Oman and India could start a new era of trade relations. The coming weeks will reveal whether the pact delivers on its ambitious promises.

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