Prime Minister Narendra Modi has projected that the forthcoming free trade agreement between India and Oman will inject fresh vitality into the long-standing partnership between the two nations. He extended a formal invitation to businesses from Oman to actively participate in and benefit from India's remarkable economic expansion.
A New Chapter in India-Oman Economic Partnership
Speaking on the prospective Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), PM Modi emphasized its transformative potential. He indicated that the pact is poised to serve as a powerful catalyst, taking the multifaceted relationship to a significantly higher level. The agreement, currently under negotiation, aims to drastically reduce trade barriers, enhance market access, and create a more predictable environment for investors and businesses from both countries.
An Open Invitation to Omani Enterprises
In his remarks, the Prime Minister made a direct appeal to the Omani corporate sector. "I invite companies from Oman to become partners in India's growth story," he stated. This invitation underscores India's proactive approach to attracting foreign direct investment and building stronger commercial bridges with key partners in the Gulf region. Oman is a crucial nation for India in the strategic Arabian Peninsula, with deep historical links and a substantial Indian diaspora.
The Foundation: India's Robust Economic Trajectory
PM Modi linked the attractiveness of this partnership to the sustained momentum of the Indian economy. He pointed out that India's economy has been growing at a high rate over the past 11 years, creating a landscape ripe with opportunity. This consistent growth, he suggested, provides a stable and promising foundation for Omani companies looking to invest, collaborate, or expand their operations in one of the world's fastest-growing major economies.
The push for a free trade agreement with Oman aligns with India's broader trade strategy to deepen economic integration with important regional blocs and nations. Successfully concluding this pact would:
- Boost bilateral trade in goods and services.
- Facilitate cross-border investments in sectors like energy, infrastructure, and technology.
- Strengthen strategic and people-to-people ties.
As of 18 December 2025, the dialogue between the two countries continues to advance, with both sides expressing a strong political will to finalize a mutually beneficial agreement. The India-Oman CEPA is widely seen as a logical step that will formalize and accelerate the already robust economic exchanges, giving what PM Modi termed "new energy" to a time-tested relationship.
