The Oman American Business Centre (OABC) has officially joined the US Chamber of Commerce, a move that marks an important development for the commercial relationship between the US and Oman
As an official member of the US Chamber of Commerce, the OABC is now part of the world?s largest business federation that represents the interests of more than three million businesses of all sizes and all sectors of the economy.
With 117 offices in 103 countries around the world, the American Chambers of Commerce (Amchams) plays a major role in linking the private sectors in all these countries to the US.
Speaking to the press, Khush Chosky, senior vice president for the Middle East and Turkey Affairs of the US Chamber of Commerce, said, ?Since the signing of the US-Oman Free Trade Agreement in 2009, both countries have enjoyed tremendous benefits from the stronger trade and investment ties. The US Chamber looks forward to working in close collaboration with the OABC to promote and enhance the important relationships with both the business communities and governments.?
Until recently, Oman was the only Gulf nation without an established AmCham despite the latter?s strong presence in the other Middle Eastern nations such as the UAE, Bahrain and Qatar. Closer ties with other AmChams in the GCC aims to allow shared access to membership directories, national discount programs and other specific resources, thus increasing opportunities for trade within the region.
OABC President Ali Daud said, ?With the ongoing development of Oman?s various ports and its strategic location on international shipping routes, along with great incentives for both Omanis and Americans on either side to do business, we are seeing more and more opportunities to develop trade between Oman and the USA.?
Explaining the importance of the relationship, Marc J Sievers, the US ambassador, added, ?Being an AmCham will enable the OABC to tap into the US Chamber?s vast regional and worldwide network and further promote business between the United States and Oman.?
Most importantly, OABC members will be able to utilise the Oman-USA Free Trade Agreement (FTA), Sievers noted.
