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Comprehensive master-plan for port and maritime sector mooted in Oman

By Conrad Prabhu MUSCAT -- Transport and Communications Minister Dr Ahmed bin Mohammed al Futaisi (pictured), has underlined the need for a new vision to fuel the continued growth of Oman's port and maritime sector at a time of intensifying regional competition in this vital industry.

Speaking to journalists during a tour of the International Maritime College of Oman (IMCO) at the Port of Sohar on Wednesday, he emphasised the importance of a comprehensive approach to the development of the country's port and maritime sector.

"We have world-class ports at Sohar and Salalah, and we're developing an equally world-class port at Duqm. All of these initiatives will support the maritime business of the country. At the same time, we should also develop the maritime affairs sector, perhaps through a better system of inspections of ships, registrations of companies involved in this industry, and so on. We may also need to look at the importance of master-plans and strategic plans that look at the country as a whole, and see how the ports are linked to each other and benefit from each other," Dr Al Futaisi stated.

The comments appear to be in response to calls by some sections of the domestic port industry that Omani ports should complement and not compete with each other. It also follows appeals for a unified national port policy that encourages maritime gateways to avoid duplicating services to their mutual detriment, but to capitalise instead on their inherent strategic strengths and geographical advantages.

Dr Al Futaisi also underlined the need for the easing of customs and other procedures in order for local ports to compete effectively with gateways in the region. With most of the Gulf states building not only cargo, but also industrial ports, competition in the region is intensifying, thus necessitating measures that would help Omani ports succeed in this environment, he noted.

Nevertheless, he was optimistic that Sohar Port would witness strong growth in light of its strategic location and excellent infrastructure. "Sohar is growing as an industrial port, while attracting more industries in metals and hydrocarbons. Further, Sohar Port is attracting containers and other cargoes. We should work hard to increase the volume of this business by attracting even bigger shipping lines."

He further added: "As we all know, a free zone is also coming up in this area. There must be strong links and connections between the free zone and port. With the implementation of planned new infrastructure projects such as the Batinah Expressway, the rail system, and the airport, a far bigger port is envisioned over the next 5-10 years."

Part of his ministry's vision is to develop the skills of Omanis and prepare them for jobs in the port and maritime sector, said Dr Al Futaisi. "We need to work hard to develop strategies for the training of Omani staff. At the moment there's a lack of a desire for employment in this sector, with graduates having a preference for such fields as aviation, and so on. But the maritime sector has excellent prospects as well, which we hope to develop and promote."

© Oman Daily Observer 2011