Business

Surge in popularity for Omani products due to govt initiative

Omani products are being appreciated by consumers for their consistent quality and sustainability.
 
Omani products are being appreciated by consumers for their consistent quality and sustainability.
Muscat: Omani products are experiencing a resurgence in consumer interest, due to an ongoing initiative organized by the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) in collaboration with the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) and the Joint Committee for External Exhibitions of Omani Products (OPEX).

Spanning commercial centers across various governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, this campaign, set to run until December, aims to propel national products into the spotlight. The initiative focuses on introducing and promoting local products, unveiling a new national product identity logo, and encouraging industrial establishments to acquire a license for this identity.

Its broader objectives include boosting local consumer confidence in national products, underlining their quality and competitiveness, and showcasing the diversity of the Omani industry. The campaign also seeks to foster collaborations between industrial establishments and small to medium-sized enterprises, enhance consumer loyalty to local products, and establish effective communication channels between producers and consumers.

Consumer testimonials underscore the belief that Omani products possess the requisite quality and specifications to rival imported counterparts, both domestically and internationally. Beyond consumer preference, the initiative emphasizes the economic impact of supporting local industries, contributing to internal economic circulation, and facilitating foreign trade.

A cross-section of Omanis contacted by local media have strongly welcomed the ‘Made in Oman’ products drive. Ahmed bin Abdullah al Waeli stressed the campaign’s role in consumer education and building awareness about the distinct manufacturing quality of local products. He emphasized the importance of continuous initiatives for sustained impact, suggesting diverse media strategies, including television and radio advertisements, newspapers, social media marketing, and public advertising campaigns.

Elham bint Bader al Balushi highlighted the sustainability and improved competitiveness of local products when chosen by consumers. Her observations point to the affordability of Omani products, especially in comparison to imported alternatives. The increasing ubiquity of 'Made in Oman' labels in various markets signifies heightened consumer awareness, reflecting positively on the national economy.

Suad bint Nasser al Nabhaniyah sees the initiative as pivotal in guiding consumers, particularly in the food sector, towards choosing a diverse range of Omani products. She expresses optimism for continuous initiatives throughout the year, anticipating their ability to reinforce consumer preferences, attract new segments, and contribute significantly to the national economy.

Mohammed bin Nasser al Hadidi underscores the initiative's role in highlighting local products, promoting industrial establishments, and encouraging entrepreneurial endeavors in the sector. He hopes for intensified promotional efforts from both government and private entities to further elevate Omani products across various industries.

With the initiative extending until December 31, 2023, the effort strives to strengthen collaborative efforts between the private and public sectors. By presenting a diverse array of high-quality national products, the initiative aims to instill trust among local consumers, encouraging them to actively choose Omani products in their purchasing decisions and fostering lasting consumer loyalty.