Saturday 25 / April / 2026
Muscat: The Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion announced the completion of the second phase of implementing the decision to combat commercial concealment. This phase targeted small and medium enterprises (SMEs) holding the “Riyada” card, as part of integrated efforts to enhance the business environment, regulate the market, and reinforce the principles of fair competition.
The Ministry stated that the outcomes of the second phase included the verification of data for 27,288 commercial registrations, the issuance of 409 administrative commitments against non-compliant records, and the temporary suspension of 45 commercial registrations until their status is rectified. Meanwhile, 696 establishments successfully adjusted their status in line with approved requirements, achieving a 100 percent completion rate of the phase’s targets.
This phase builds on the regulatory efforts achieved during the first phase, which focused on awareness-raising, improving compliance among business owners, and strengthening coordination among regulatory and relevant entities. These efforts contributed to creating a more efficient regulatory environment, paving the way for a more effective and precise implementation of the second phase.
The National Team for Combating Commercial Concealment, which includes several relevant government entities, works to coordinate roles, integrate regulatory and legislative efforts, and facilitate the exchange of data and information. This enhances the efficiency of detecting illegal practices and supports taking necessary legal actions against violators in accordance with approved frameworks.
The Ministry affirmed that this institutional integration has contributed to achieving tangible results during the second phase and raising compliance levels among targeted establishments, particularly within the SME sector.
Nasra bint Sultan Al Habsi, Director General of Commerce at the Ministry and Head of the National Team, stated that these results reflect the effectiveness of the policies and regulatory measures implemented by the Ministry. She noted that the second phase has enhanced commercial compliance and increased market transparency, supporting the sustainability of economic activities and boosting investor confidence.
She added that the Ministry remains committed to developing the legislative framework and strengthening integration with relevant entities to ensure a well-regulated and fair business environment that keeps pace with economic developments and contributes to achieving the objectives of Oman Vision 2040.
For his part, Rashid bin Mohammed Al Saeedi, a member of the National Team representing the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority, explained that targeting SMEs holding the “Riyada” card reflects a strategic direction toward supporting this vital sector and ensuring its operations comply with regulatory frameworks.
He added that the Authority works in coordination with the Ministry to empower SMEs by providing supportive programs and initiatives, while enhancing their compliance with regulations to boost competitiveness and sustainability in the market.
Meanwhile, Mohammed bin Salem Al Hashemi, Director of the Commercial Establishments Oversight Department at the Ministry, stated that completing the second phase reflects the effectiveness of coordination among concerned entities through the National Team and underscores the Ministry’s commitment to promoting a transparent and fair business environment.
He emphasised that the Ministry, in cooperation with the National Team, will continue to develop its regulatory tools and intensify awareness campaigns, alongside enforcing legal measures against violators. These efforts aim to curb the phenomenon, protect investors, support the growth of SMEs, and enhance the competitiveness of the national economy.
The Ministry confirmed that it will continue implementing subsequent phases of the decision according to a structured plan targeting various commercial activities, while maintaining coordination within the National Team framework to ensure a sustainable business environment and reinforce governance and transparency in the Omani market.
