MUSCAT: The inaugural phase of executing the decision to combat illicit trade activities has commenced, encompassing the governorates of Muscat, Dhofar, and Al Batinah North. The National Team for Combating Hidden Trade, under the leadership of the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, is contributing significantly to fostering an attractive business environment within the Sultanate of Oman. This includes the creation of conducive conditions to support various economic sectors, with a particular emphasis on the promotion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
Director General of Commerce, Mubarak bin Mohamed al Dohani, who leads the National Team to Combat Hidden Trade, highlighted that the team is dedicated to achieving several key objectives. These objectives include effectively tackling illicit trade while bolstering economic integrity by curtailing the misuse or exploitation of management and various professions.
Mr. al Dohani clarified that the composition of the National Team to Combat Hidden Trade, chairing by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion, includes representatives from the Royal Oman Police, Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Information, represented by the Government Communication Center, Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, Consumer Protection Authority, Tax Authority, and the Central Bank of Oman.
He also mentioned that the regulatory efforts of the team span over approximately 106 types of activities. This includes the prohibition of foreign investment in all but 20 designated activities, alongside restrictions on activities in the telecommunications sector, pharmacies, and dental clinics, subject to the company having a minimum of five years of establishment.
Director General al Dohani has further clarified that the team's goal is to counteract the adverse effects of hidden trade on the national economy and local markets. These adverse effects include an increase in commercial fraud cases, alteration of labor market regulations, unfair competition with entrepreneurs and SMEs, evasion of taxes, and bypassing established procedures.
It should be noted that Ministerial Decision 412/2023 has prescribed the mechanism for its implementation, allowing the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion to define the specific mechanisms for each activity covered by this decision based on the nature and scale of the activity. The decision also stipulates that any individual who becomes cognizant of illicit trade activities must promptly report them to the Ministry. Evidence of such violations will be established using legally recognized proof methods, including electronic evidence, in accordance with Omani laws and decrees.
Additionally, the Ministry may allocate specialized personnel from its central headquarters or associated departments and agencies to oversee establishments and conduct inspections at any time to ensure compliance with this decision. Such personnel are authorized to impose appropriate measures against violations. The Ministry underscored that the reporting of hidden trade activities can be made via a toll-free number, 80000070, or by emailing info@tejarah.gov.om, with the aim of protecting national interests by diminishing this harmful practice that erodes the national economy.
