Media

Duqm: The Special Economic Zone at Duqm celebrated today (Sunday, 18 August 2024) the opening of Duqm Materials Market, an important addition to the special economic zone’s dynamic business eco-system and the latest milestone in the special relationship between the Sultanate of Oman and the People’s Republic of China and the third project in the Sino-Omani Industrial City in Duqm for light and medium industries.

The ceremony was held under the patronage of Xie Zhongmai, Commercial Counsellor at the Embassy of the People's Republic of China in the Sultanate of Oman in the presence of Eng. Ahmed Akaak, Acting CEO, Special Economic Zone at Duqm. Along with the dignitaries in attendance were representatives from over 30 Chinese companies looking to explore the many opportunities of the project as well as the game-changing possibilities of SEZAD, the home of green energy in Oman.

Speaking at the event, Su Wei, Chairman, Board of Directors of Duqm Materials Market and representative of Wanfang China in the Sultanate of Oman, said: "We are delighted to see the inauguration of Duqm Materials Market and look forward to the new opportunities for commercial co-operation between China and Oman it will open up. I have no doubt it will contribute to enhancing the long-standing friendship and trade relationship between our two countries as it enhances the presence of Chinese products in Oman and supports the manufacture of goods produced by Chinese companies within this world-class facility. I very much look forward to seeing the export of these goods to international markets through Port of Duqm, a leading global gateway.”

In full agreement about the export potential of this new addition to the SEZAD eco-system was Ali Al Lawati, Operations Manager at Duqm Materials Market: "The Duqm Materials Market offers an exceptional space for local and international companies to start their businesses and expand into the GCC, Asia and Africa given Duqm’s strategic location. An extraordinary industrial hub and centre of innovation with a well-established track record of success, SEZAD is already proudly playing a leading role in Oman’s new Renaissance. I am sure this outstanding complex with its exceptional offer will play a substantial role in SEZAD’s on-going impact and contributions to Oman’s continued development and progress, unlocking opportunities and spurring new possibilities for employment and entrepreneurship.”

Expressing his pride in the opening of Duqm Material Market, Mahmoud Al Jardani, Business Development Manager, Duqm Development Company, commented that the market is one of the largest retail projects on SEZAD. He noted that the Market was constructed under the direct supervision of Duqm Development Company and highlighted key features contributing to its attraction for local and international companies. Amongst these being its best-in-class integrated facilities and proximity to the Special Economic Zone infrastructure and amenity network.

Built according to the highest international standards, the 32,000 square metre Duqm Materials Market is a 7.5 million Omani Rial partnership between Wanfang China, Thabat Holding and Duqm Development Company. Its high-specification features include integrated state-of-the-art workshops designed for export-oriented manufacturers to establish a Middle East base and grow their operations. The Market also boasts expansive multi-purpose exhibition space with a 16,000 square meter main hall and a 2,500 square meter secondary hall, both equipped to host displays of goods produced on-site as well as larger items such as cars and machinery available for import. A range of building materials and equipment, electrical appliances and household items will also be available on permanent sale. Supporting all activities and events at the Market are four 1,200 square metre warehouses while ample parking ensures visitor convenience at all times.