Find Buyers, Importers, Distributors in Oman

Oman, strategically located on the Arabian Peninsula, serves as a vital hub for trade between Asia, Africa, and the Middle East. With a growing population and increasing urbanization, the country has witnessed a steady rise in demand for imported food and beverage products. In 2023, Oman imported goods worth over $25 billion, with food and beverages accounting for a significant share of this total.

The food and beverage sector in Oman is characterized by a reliance on international suppliers to meet domestic demand. Key drivers include a growing expatriate population, rising disposable incomes, and a preference for high-quality imported goods. Oman’s trade policies are designed to encourage imports, offering a business-friendly environment with low tariffs and streamlined customs procedures. The country’s open market and strong demand for diverse food products make it an attractive destination for manufacturers in the food and beverage industry.

Oman’s food and beverage imports are diverse, reflecting the country’s dependence on international markets to meet its needs. In 2023, the top imported food and beverage categories included:

• Fresh fruits and vegetables
• Dairy products (milk, cheese, and butter)
• Meat and poultry
• Seafood (fresh and frozen)
• Grains and cereals
• Processed and packaged foods
• Beverages (juices, soft drinks, and bottled water)

Fast-growing segments:

• Organic and health-focused products
• Plant-based and vegan alternatives
• Specialty and ethnic foods
• Premium and gourmet beverages

These trends highlight opportunities for manufacturers offering innovative and high-quality products to capture market share in Oman.

The food and beverage market in Oman is supported by a variety of buyers, each with specific needs and preferences:

• Importers: These entities handle large-scale procurement and distribution within Oman. They prioritize consistent quality, competitive pricing, and adherence to regulatory standards.
• Distributors: Distributors supply products to retailers, wholesalers, and foodservice providers. They value reliable supply chains, attractive packaging, and products that cater to local tastes.
• Retail Chains: Supermarkets and hypermarkets such as Lulu Hypermarket and Carrefour are major players in Oman’s retail sector. They seek innovative, trend-driven products with strong branding and certifications.
• Foodservice Providers (HORECA): Hotels, restaurants, and catering companies focus on premium quality, taste, and presentation. They often require customized packaging and bulk quantities.
• Specialty Food Stores: These outlets cater to niche markets, including organic, vegan, and ethnic food products. They look for unique offerings that appeal to health-conscious and expatriate consumers.
• Online Retailers: E-commerce platforms are gaining traction in Oman, offering opportunities for direct-to-consumer sales of packaged and specialty food items.

Exporting food and beverage products to Oman involves several key steps:

• Market Research: Understand the demand for your product, identify target buyer segments, and analyze pricing trends in Oman.
• Regulatory Compliance: Ensure your products meet Omani food safety and quality standards, including labeling and packaging requirements.
• Documentation: Prepare essential documents such as the commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, certificate of origin, and health certificates.
• Partner with Local Importers: Collaborate with experienced importers or distributors who understand the local market and regulatory landscape.
• Shipping and Logistics: Choose a reliable freight forwarder with expertise in Middle Eastern trade routes. Be clear on Incoterms to define responsibilities for shipping, insurance, and customs duties.
• Customs Clearance: Work with your local partner to ensure smooth customs clearance by providing all required documentation and adhering to Omani import regulations.

By following these steps, manufacturers can successfully enter the Omani market and establish a strong presence in the food and beverage sector.

Exporting food and beverage products to Oman requires compliance with specific certifications and standards to ensure product safety and quality. Key certifications include:

• Halal Certification: Mandatory for all meat and poultry products, and often required for other food items to meet Islamic dietary laws.
• ISO 22000: Demonstrates compliance with international food safety management standards.
• HACCP Certification: Ensures that food safety hazards are identified and controlled during production.
• Organic Certification: Required for organic products, particularly those targeting health-conscious consumers.
• GFSI-Recognized Schemes: Certifications such as BRC, IFS, or SQF are valued by importers and retailers for processed and packaged foods.
• Product-Specific Certifications: Depending on the product, additional certifications such as Fair Trade, Non-GMO, or Gluten-Free may be required.

Meeting these certification requirements not only facilitates market entry but also builds trust with Omani buyers and consumers.

Packaging and labeling play a crucial role in the success of food and beverage products in Oman. Manufacturers should adhere to the following guidelines:

Preferred Packaging Types:

• Retail-ready packaging for supermarkets and specialty stores
• Bulk packaging for foodservice providers
• Eco-friendly and sustainable packaging to appeal to environmentally conscious consumers

Labeling Requirements:

• Product name and brand
• Ingredients list
• Net weight or volume (in metric units)
• Country of origin
• Nutritional information
• Allergen declarations
• Production and expiration dates
• Halal certification mark (if applicable)

Labels must be in Arabic or include an Arabic translation alongside English. Additionally, clear and accurate labeling helps build consumer trust and ensures compliance with Omani regulations.