MUSCAT: At the 5th Duqm Forum, the Al Sharqiyah South Governorate took part in a dedicated booth, marking its commitment to the ongoing endeavors aimed at fostering integration and cooperation among both public and private entities throughout the Sultanate of Oman.
Salim bin Khadem al Hashmi, the Director of the Planning and Investment Department within Al Sharqiyah South Governorate, articulated that this participation underscores the governorate's dedication to collaboration across various sectors, particularly in light of the forum's focus on the blue economy and the investment opportunities it presents. The organizers extended a formal invitation to the governorate, citing its comparative advantage as a reason for inclusion, aligning with the forum's objectives and aspirations.
Al Hashmi highlighted the governorate's involvement, focusing on the significant opportunities available across sectors such as fish farming, fisheries, fish-related industries, and fish-derived oils, all of which offer promising avenues for investment. The governorate's ports further enhance investment prospects, especially for small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
Moreover, the governorate presents eco-tourism opportunities, notably through the Turtle Reserve, a vital environmental asset that draws visitors from around the globe. The governorate's numerous beachfronts also present additional investment opportunities for SMEs to explore.
In addition, Al Hashmi noted the presence of major companies and factories within the governorate, such as Oman LNG and Oman-India Fertiliser Company, which utilize its waterfronts for production and export to international markets. These opportunities further bolster the region's appeal for investment and suggest even greater potential in the forthcoming years.
The governorate is also concentrating on significant development projects, including the Khor Al Batha project, which offers a promising environment for investment. Al Hashmi explained that the governorate is in the process of preparing the necessary infrastructure for this project, which includes dredging and cleaning the Khor. Upon completion, these sites will be made available for investment, positively impacting both the local and national economy.
Additional projects include the Sur Public Park, which offers a diverse range of investment opportunities, and the Al Ashkharah waterfront in the Wilayat of Jaalan Bani Bu Ali, which includes various investment components. Furthermore, a comprehensive and multi-purpose port in the same Wilayat is under development, encompassing opportunities in tourism, environmental conservation, and maritime activities.
Al Hashmi emphasized that these projects will contribute to the growth of the small and medium enterprise sector and generate numerous employment opportunities for the residents of these wilayats and the governorate at large.
