New Delhi | December 17, 2025 :
The Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s upcoming visit to Oman on December 17–18 has drawn keen attention from industry leaders, with expectations that bilateral trade between India and Oman could double within the next two to three years following the implementation of a proposed Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
The Oman leg marks the third and final stop of PM Modi’s three-nation tour, coinciding with the 70th anniversary of diplomatic relations between India and Oman. The visit is expected to give fresh momentum to trade, investment, and strategic cooperation between the two countries.
CEPA at the Center of Talks
Industry experts say CEPA discussions will dominate the visit. Once finalized, the agreement is expected to open new markets for Indian exporters while offering Oman strategic advantages in sectors such as energy, petrochemicals, and food security.
India is likely to benefit from stable petrochemical supplies, strengthening its energy security, while Oman could gain from improved access to Indian agricultural products and services.
Alkesh Joshi, Partner at Ernst & Young (EY), said the Prime Minister’s visit is sharply focused on CEPA negotiations. “The discussions are serious and outcome-oriented. Even though the visit is brief, CEPA remains the central objective,” he said, noting that PM Modi is scheduled to be in Oman for nearly 23 hours.
Engagement With Leadership and Indian Diaspora
During the visit, PM Modi will hold bilateral talks with Oman’s Sultan Haitham bin Tarik and address the Indian community living in the country.
Kiran Asher, Founder and Group Managing Director of the Al Ansari Group, said the visit has generated widespread excitement among Indians in Oman. “People are eager to see and welcome the Prime Minister. This visit will give a new direction to business cooperation between the two countries,” he said.
Industry leaders believe that while the visit could have happened earlier, it comes at a crucial time and is expected to significantly strengthen commercial alignment and long-term economic collaboration.
PM Modi began his three-nation tour from Jordan, followed by Ethiopia, and will conclude the visit in Oman, reinforcing India’s growing diplomatic and economic engagement with key regions.
