Trade Minister holds talks with Oman business delegation

Trade Minister Bandula Gunawardana met a business delegation from Oman today at the ministry premises. The discussions centred on strengthening trade relations between the two countries, the Trade Ministry stated. 

Discussions were held on the current situation of Sri Lankan products in Oman. Minister Gunawardana told the delegation that the Trade Ministry could use its retail network to issue goods to the Oman market in a responsible manner. He also inquired whether any Sri Lankan university interested in opening a branch in Oman could be provided with buildings to do so. He further discussed about initiating a mechanism to popularise Sri Lanka's spices and garments in Oman with the assistance of Sri Lankan professionals. Accordingly, he pointed out the need for further discussions between Sri Lankan producers and Omani officials. 

Redha Bin Juma Al Saleh, Chairman of the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, noted that some 30, 000 Sri Lankans currently live and work in Oman and in order for Sri Lankan products to be made available at shops across Oman, he suggested that it would be better to hold a trade fair this year aimed at creating awareness among Omanis regarding Sri Lankan products. 

The possibility of further strengthening trade ties by entering into a Memorandum of Understanding with Oman was also discussed.