Omani and Dutch entrepreneurs discuss the future of logistics
Oman to increase ease of doing business to diversify economy
SOHAR commits to innovation in order to stay competitive
SOHAR Port and Freezone took part in the Business Innovation Forum this week, with SOHAR Port CEO Andre Toet participating in an industry panel discussion on 'Shaping the future of logistics through innovation'.
The two-day event, organized in cooperation between the Omani Government and the Dutch Regional Economic Network in the Gulf, was held at the Intercontinental Hotel in Muscat. The forum brings together Oman-based and Dutch entrepreneurs, government officials and researchers in the field of logistics and maritime, and aims to build on the existing close relationship between Oman and the Netherlands as well as creating opportunities for further collaboration.
Speaking to media during the event, SOHAR Port CEO Andre Toet said: "The Business Innovation Forum is a fantastic opportunity for international minds to come together and discuss future trends. This year, as part of our panel discussion, we focused on topics such as the ease of doing business in Oman and how to stay competitive. It is key for us at SOHAR Port and Freezone to remain innovative in order to stay on top of our game."
Andre Toet continued: "For example, we recently implemented a new port management system which provides shipping agents a platform to access and exchange information; we have also improved our customs services with the implementation of a customs Bayan system. As well as this, our state-of-the-art container terminal, managed by OICT, recently introduced a new automatic truck appointment system to reduce turnaround times, increase efficiency and ultimately reduce the cost of doing business."
As part of the event an SME competition was held, encouraging participants to get creative. The competition was an opportunity for young people to win great prizes that included a fact-finding trip the Netherlands; a one day visit to SOHAR Port and Freezone with a guided tour of the facilities; and a one-day workshop focusing on soft skills for entrepreneurs, led by Shell Oman.
SOHAR Freezone CEO Jamal Aziz summed up when he said: "The Oman Logistics Strategy 2040 is a key focus for us as the nation looks to diversify its economy and transform the Sultanate into a regional logistics powerhouse. Progressing with our planning is one key to success, but there also needs to be a practical shift right across the board towards ease of doing business, in order for Oman to really excel in this area."
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About SOHAR Port and Freezone
SOHAR Port and Freezone is a deep sea port and free zone in the Middle East, situated in the Sultanate of Oman around 200 kilometres northwest of its capital Muscat. With current investments of US$25 billion, it is one of the world's fastest growing port and free zone developments and lies at the centre of global trade routes between Europe and Asia. SOHAR provides unequalled access to booming Gulf economies while avoiding the additional costs of passing through the Strait of Hormuz. The existing road network and airport and the future rail system provide direct connectivity to the UAE and Saudi Arabia, as well as to the rest of the world. Equipped with deep-water jetties capable of handling the world's largest ships, SOHAR has leading global partners that operate its container, dry bulk, liquid and gas terminals including Hutchison Whampoa, C. Steinweg Oman, Oiltanking Odfjell and Svitzer. SOHAR Port and Freezone is managed by Sohar Industrial Port Company (SIPC), a joint venture between the Port of Rotterdam and the Sultanate of Oman. www.soharportandfreezone.com
Media enquiries
Sharan Sunner
Senior PR Manager
OSS Oman
sharan@ossoman.com
+968 9012 5238
Robert Mitchell
Marketing Consultant
OSS Oman
robert@ossoman.com
+968 9912 6962
© Press Release 2016
