Muscat: The National Local Content Laboratory commenced on Monday at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre, featuring participation from 43 entities across both government and private sectors.
This initiative is organized by the Secretariat General of the Tender Board in collaboration with the Oman Vision 2040 Implementation Follow-up Unit.
Over the course of two weeks, the laboratory will address key issues related to enhancing in-country value (ICV) to strengthen the national economy. Proposed strategies include implementing policies that encourage businesses to utilize local resources, fostering collaboration among educational institutions to develop relevant skills, and empowering local organizations to grow. Additionally, the lab will explore opportunities for collaboration with international partners to promote Omani products on a global scale.
The laboratory focuses on several critical sectors, including energy, minerals, construction, electricity, water, health, and military and security.
In addition to advocating for the use of local products, the lab aims to improve the efficiency of the national workforce, enhance industrial capabilities, localize industries, foster innovation, facilitate technology transfer, and bolster the competitiveness of local enterprises. The opening ceremony was presided over by Dr. Said Mohammed Al Saqri, Minister of Economy.
The minister emphasized the importance of the laboratory and the key sectors it addresses. He highlighted the numerous opportunities available for localizing essential industries and services within these sectors, which he believes will significantly contribute to the growth of productive structures within the economy.
The laboratory seeks to foster collaboration across pertinent sectors to optimize the use of shared resources, thereby achieving long-term strategic objectives and establishing strong partnerships with governmental bodies and private enterprises. It provides a platform to promote cooperation among academic institutions, research organizations, and industry sectors, primarily focused on enhancing innovation and involving stakeholders in conversations aimed at developing a sustainable communication framework among all involved parties.
