Tuesday 19 / August / 2025
Muscat: The Economic and Financial Committee of the Shura Council hosted on Tuesday officials from the Royal Oman Police and the Ministry of Finance to discuss the draft Unified Customs Law for the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) States.
It has been referred by the government to the Council for review within its legislative role as defined by the Law of the Council of Oman.
At the outset of the meeting, Ahmed Said Al Sharqi, Chairman of the Committee, welcomed the officials, emphasising that their participation adds significant value to the discussions, given their direct role in implementing customs law on the ground.
He noted that the exchange of views and insights will undoubtedly contribute to shaping a comprehensive and well-informed perspective by the Committee on the draft law.
During the meeting, the Committee heard the observations and inputs of the officials regarding several provisions of the draft law, drawing upon their expertise and practical field experience.
The discussions focused on enhancing the efficiency of customs operations and streamlining procedures to facilitate smoother trade flows at both regional and international levels, in line with GCC efforts to harmonise related policies and procedures.
The draft law introduces several substantive amendments, including the rephrasing of chapter titles in the existing law, revising or repealing certain outdated definitions, and replacing provisions to better align with current requirements.
Additionally, new articles have been incorporated to address emerging aspects of customs operations, thereby ensuring greater efficiency, transparency, and economic integration among GCC states.
The proposal comes after twenty years of applying the current law, underscoring the need for an update that reflects rapid global trade developments and modern customs practices.
This reform represents a significant step toward strengthening the legal framework that empowers the competent authorities to perform their duties more effectively across the GCC.
The meeting was held as part of the Committee’s first session between the second and third annual sittings of the tenth term (2023–2027) of the Council, chaired by Ahmed Said Al Sharqi, and attended by Committee members.
