RESTRICTEDWORLD TRADE
ORGANIZATIONWT/ACC/OMN/14
4 February 1999
(99-0416)
Working Party on the
Accession of the Sultanate of OmanOriginal:  English
ACCESSION OF THE SULTANATE OF OMAN
Additional Questions and Replies
The Ministry of Commerce and Industry of the Sultanate of Oman has submitted additional
replies to questions raised after the third meeting of the Working Party held on 21 October 1998, with
the request that they be circulated to Working Party members.  The questions and replies are
reproduced hereunder.  Attachments are availa ble in the Secretariat (Accessions Division,
Room 1126) for consultation by interested members.
_______________
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
No.Question
No.
II. ECONOMY, ECONOMIC POLICIES AND FOREIGN TRADE
2. Economic Policies(a) Main directions 1 1-2
(d) Foreign and domestic investment policies 5 3-4
III. FRAMEWORK FOR MAKING AND ENFORCING POLICIES
AFFECTING FOREIGN TRADE IN GOODS AND TRADE IN
SERVICES
1. Powers of Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches of
Government
(a) General introduction to executive branch of government 2 3
(b) Composition of parliament and legislative branch 2 4
6. Description of Judicial, Arbitr al or Administrative Tribunals or
Procedures35 - 8
IV. POLICIES AFFECTING TRADE IN GOODS
1. Import Regulation(a) Registration requirements for engaging in importing 4 9-24
(b) Characteristics of national tariff 9 25-28
(d) Other duties and charges, specifying any charges for services
rendered10 29-33
(e) Quantitative import restrictions, including prohibitions, quotas and
licensing systems11 34-39
(h) Customs valuation 13 40-43WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page ii
Page
No.Question
No.
(j) Pre-shipment inspection 14 44
(k) Application of internal taxes on imports 14 45(m)(n)(o) Anti-dumping, countervailing duty and safeguard regimes 15 46-482. Export Regulation(f) Export financing, subsidy and promotion policies 16 49-59
3. Internal Policies Affecting Foreign Trade in Goods
(a) Industrial policy, including subsidy policies 19 60-61(b) Technical regulations and standards, including measures taken at
the border with respect to imports19 62-70
(c) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures, including measures taken
with respect to imports22 71-76
(d) Trade-related investment measures 24 77
(e) State-trading practices 24 78-79
(l) Government procurement practices 25 80-81
4. Policies Affecting Foreign Trade in Agricultural Products(a) Imports 26 82
V. TRADE-RELATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY REGIME
1. General 26 83-85
(c) Membership of international intellectual property conventions and
regional or bilateral agreements27 6
(d) Application of national and MFN treatment to foreign nationals 28 87
2. Substantive Standards of Protection 25 64(b) Trademarks, including service marks 28 88-90(c) Geographical origins, including appellations of origin 29 91(e) Patents 29 92
(g) Layout designs of integrated circuits 29 93
4. Enforcement(a) Civil judicial procedures and remedies 30 94(b) Provisional measures 30 95(c) Any administrative procedures and remedies 30 96-97(d) Any special border measures 31 98-100
(e) Criminal procedures 31 101-105
VI. TRADE-RELATED SERVICES REGIME 33 106-109VII. INSTITUTIONAL BASE FOR TRADE AND ECONOMIC
RELATIONS WITH THIRD COUNTRIES
2. Economic Integration, Customs Unions and Free Trade Area
Agreements35 110-113
ATTACHMENTS 38WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 1
II. ECONOMY, ECONOMIC POLICIES AND FOREIGN TRADE
2. Economic Policies
(a) Main Directions
Question 1
Concerning the reply to question 1 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9, the replies to questions 82,
83 and 84 in document WT/ACC/OMN/6/Add. 1 do not explain why telecom and oil prices are
set above world prices and why water and electricity are subsidized.  Please elaborate.
Reply:
Telecommunication:
As had been explained before, the telecom tariff is uniform for all consumers.  To narrow the
gap between the local tariff and world prices, th e tariff had been lowered four times since 1980, the
last of which was in this year.  It is worth mentioning that the Government is currently evaluating anoption to privatize 30 per cent of GTO, ie. 20 per cent to be offered to foreign investors, and 10 per
cent for  public subscription.  This is a part of a comprehensive plan of reform to restructure GTO so
as to work as a private entity in a free competitive market.  This step would lead to an overall review
of the tariffs later on.
Local petroleum prices:
The hidden increase in the local petroleum prices, is in fact a fiscal measure adopted by the
Government – i.e. it is an "indirect tax" levied on consumers for two reasons: firstly, to rationalize the
domestic consumption of petroleum products, and secondly, to increase Government revenue from
this source in the general budget.  So, there is an economic justification for this measure.
Electricity and water tariffs:
Electricity tariffs have a graduated structure applied to different users – i.e. either to
households for social reasons, or to infant industries for economic reasons.  So, this measure has been
taken for the benefit of various users, taking into consideration the late socio-economic development
of Oman, which had only started in 1970, necessitating providing cheap electricity and water to the
Omanis.
Now the authorities are studying carefully a strategy of electricity and water reforms which
target reviewing and harmonizing the rates.
The Government is also evaluating various options to introduce privatization in the electricity
and water sectors.
Question 2
Concerning the reply to question 2 (WT/ACC/OMN/9), has any privatization been completed
since the last Working Party?  How does Oman  to encourage foreign participation in the
privatization projects?  Will foreign investors be invited to the open tenders?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 2
Reply:
No privatization project has been fully completed yet since the last Working Party, but some
of them are approaching their final stages – i.e. Muscat and Salalah Sewage Systems, GTO
restructuring, electricity projects in Salalah, Sharqiya, Manah, Ghubra as well as water projects in
Dhahira, Sharqiya and the Najd Area.
Foreign participation in the privatization projects  is encouraged so as to benefit from foreign
capital, technical and administrative expertise.  This participation should be in accordance with the
Foreign Capital Investment Law 1994.
Royal Decree No. 42/96 stipulates, in the s ub-section regarding regulations, the following:
"The selection of the suitable company to finance, implement and operate the project shall be
determined through open tender, to which the maximum number of Omani companies shall be
invited".
According to the Foreign Capital Investment Law, non-Omanis can conduct a business either
as an Omani company licensed and registered in Oman, or by virtue of special contract issued by a
Royal Decree.
III. FRAMEWORK FOR MAKING AND E NCORCING POLICIES AFFECTING 
FOREIGN TRADE IN GOODS AND TRADE IN SERVICES.
1. Powers of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial Branches of Government
(a) General introduction to executive branch of government
Question 3.
Please confirm that ratification of Oman’s ac cession, and the protocol package containing the
terms of its accession, to the WTO Agreement wi ll be accomplished by His Majesty, the Sultan’s
signature or his ratification of the signature of a person he has designated.  If this is not so,
please explain.
Reply:
Yes, it is so confirmed.
(b) Composition of parliament and legislative branch.
Question 4.
Is it intended that the Majlis ash-Shura or the Ma jlis ad-Dawla have any role in the approval or
ratification of Oman’s accession package?
Reply:
The Majlis Ash-Shura and the Majlis ad-Dawla have no role in the approval or ratification of
Oman’s accession package.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 3
6. Description of Judicial, Arbitral or Administrative Tribunals or Procedures
Question 5.
Please confirm whether the "Authority for the Settlement of Commercial Disputes" mentioned
in the Factual Summary constitutes a judicial, arbitral or administrative tribunal " . . . . for the
purpose, inter alia, of the prompt review and correction of administrative action relating tocustoms matters".  Please elaborate on the nature, structure, and role of Commercial Courts
vis-à-vis the right of appeal provided for in WTO Agreements, i.e., what sort of cases covered by
WTO rules could be brought?
Reply:
The authority for Settlement of Commercial Disputes has been replaced by the Commercial
Court, which is a judicial tribunal.  We have carefully examined the requirements of appeal in
customs matters and all trade matters under the GATT 1994 and under different WTO Agreements,and weighed these against the Royal Decree establishing the Commercial Court.  Our tentative
conclusion is that the Commercial Court does not fully meet the requirements of appeal under the
GATT and the WTO.
The Basic Law (Constitution) of Oman does provide for a right of appeal to judicial bodies
against all administrative rulings and decision.  Precise laws to deal with the right of appeal againstgovernmental decisions provided for in WTO Agreements, including in particular Article X of GATT
1994, will be promulgated shortly.
Question 6.
Please confirm whether it is contemplated that either the "Authority" or the Commercial
Courts will be the point of appeal from all administrative rulings under WTO Agreements orwhether there are other bodies that might fill that role.
Reply:
Please see reply to question 5.
Question 7.
Can either the "Authority" or the Commercial courts be considered to be "independent of the
agencies entrusted with administrative enforcement and their decisions shall be implemented
by, and shall govern the practice of, such agenc ies unless an appeal is lodged with a court or
tribunal of superior jurisdiction within the time prescribed".  If so, how and why?
Reply:
Please see reply to question 5.
Question 8.
We seek a definitive statement in the Working Party Report as to how importers and exporters
will exercise the right of appeal from governmental decisions provided for in WTO Agreements,
including the provision for independent ruling s contained in Article X:3 of the GATT 1994.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 4
Reply:
Please see reply to question 5.
IV. POLICIES AFFECTING TRADE IN GOODS
1. Import Regulation
(a) Registration requirements for engaging in importing
Question 9.
Oman’s answer to question 7 in WT/ACC/OMN/9 stated that a foreign supplier can export
goods to Oman without using a commercial agent and an importer can import goods even if he
is not a commercial agent, and he is not obliged to import through a commercial agent.  Our
understanding is that this can only occur if th e importer is registered in Oman’s commercial
register, and in the cases where the importer has more than 49 per cent foreign ownership the
appropriate procedures need to be completed, as required under the Companies CommercialLaw and the Foreign Capital Investment Law, before importation can take place.  Foreign
individuals cannot undertake importation.  Can Oman confirm that our understanding is
correct?
Reply:
It is confirmed that commercial imports can be made only by individuals or companies which
are registered in the Commercial Register.  An individual, as a sole proprietor, can get commercial
registration if he is an Omani national, is not less than 18 years of age, should have a place of business
in Oman, should not have been convicted of an offence and should not have been declared as
bankrupt.
A company can get commercial registration by applying to the Ministry of Commerce and
Industry in the appropriate form along with the Memorandum and Articles of Association of the
company, and the identification documents of the partners or Directors of the company.  Joint Stock
Companies and companies subject to Foreign Capital Investment Law should have completed the
necessary procedures under the Companies Commercial Law and/or the Foreign Capital Investment
Law before they can apply for registration in the Commercial Registration.  A company which isregistered in the Commercial Register can engage in importation or distribution of imports in Oman if
importation and distribution of imports is covered in its Memorandum and Articles of Association.
Individuals and companies described in the foregoing paragraphs can import goods without
being a commercial agent or without going through or using a commercial agent.  Foreign individuals
as such cannot undertake importation.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 5
Question 10.
In the response to question 53 of document WT/ACC/OMN/5, Oman states that "A company
which is registered in the Commercial Register can engage in importation or distribution of
imports in Oman if importation and distribution of imports is covered in its Memorandum and
Articles of Association".  This would appear to indicate that the ability to import, and possiblyexport, can be limited by the "scope of business" registered in the Memorandum and Articles of
Association.  The response to question 95 in document WT/ACC/OMN/6/Add.1 indicates that it
is relatively easy for a firm to establish the righ t to engage in trade when it first registers.  Can
registered companies easily amend their regi stration and acquire the right to trade,
notwithstanding their Articles of Association?  If not, how would a firm already registered
without the right to trade acquire it?
Reply:
Registered companies can amend their registration and acquire the right to trade if trading is
provided in their Memorandum and Articles of Association.  If not, they first have to get their
Memorandum and Articles of Association amended before they can change their registration.  A firm
already registered in the Commercial Register has to get its Memorandum and Articles of Association
amended and apply for an amendment in its commerc ial registration so as to acquire the right to
engage in trade.
Question 11.
Per the responses to questions 53 and 57 of document WT/ACC/OMN/5, please confirm that in
Oman the right to engage in commerce is restri cted to (a) Oman nationals, (b) GCC nationals
per Article VIII of the GCC Agreement, and (c ) foreign firms registered in the Commercial
Register whose Memorandum and Articles of Association provided for trade and distribution.
Please confirm that it is not legal for foreign individuals to engage in trade.
Reply:
It is so confirmed.
Question 12.
The response to question 96 in OMAN/6/Add.1 states that Oman’s Foreign Agency Law
"provides that if a foreign supplier appoints an agent in Oman, it must be an Omani national or
an Omani company (a company with at least 51 per cent Omani participation) and a supplier
can appoint more than one agent.  Even when an agent/agents is appointed, other importers
(non-agents) can import the same goods".  Please clarify the rights of GCC nationals under
Oman’s Foreign Agency Law.  Does Article VI II of the GCC Agreement guarantee them the
right to act as commercial agents on  the same level as Omani nationals?
Reply:
Only Omani nationals or Omani companies in wh ich the share of Omani nationals is not less
than 51 per cent can act as commercial agents.  Article 8 of the GCC Agreement does not guarantee
GCC nationals to act as commercial agents in Oman.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 6
Question 13.
Please confirm that foreign owned firms, ie., those with less than 51 per cent Oman or GCC
equity participation, can import on an equal basis with commercial agents.  If this is not so,
please describe how it is not so.
Reply:
Foreign owned firms registered in the Commercial Register can import on equal basis with
commercial agents.
Question 14.
Can foreign firms distribute imports in Oman without a commercial agent? If so, what
provision of law guarantees this right?
Reply:
Foreign firms based in Oman and registered in the Commercial Register can distribute
imports in Oman without a commercial agent.  Foreign firms not based in Oman can export goods to
Oman through any importer/distributor so registered in the Commercial Register; they do not have to
use a commercial register.
Question 15.
With regard to question 7 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9, we seek further clarification of
Oman’s responses.  Please define the terms "commercial agent" and "non-commercial agent".
Reply:
A commercial agent is an individual or a company that sells, promotes the sale and
distribution of goods or provides services whether in his capacity as agent, representative or
intermediary of the manufacturer or supplier of goods.
A non-commercial agent is an individual or co mpany registered in the Commercial Register
as an importer or distributor of goods but not acting as an agent, representative or intermediary of a
manufacturer or supplier.
Question 16.
It is stated that "A foreign supplier can export goods to Oman without using a commercial
agent".  Are there any other requirements for a foreign supplier seeking to export goods to
Oman?  Can or must any other type of agent be used?  Is there a penalty incurred by not using
an Omani commercial agent?  Please be specific.
Reply:
No, there are no other requirements for a foreign supplier seeking to export goods to Oman.
No other type of agent is required to be used.  There is no penalty for not using an Omani commercial
agent, as there is no requirement to use such an agent.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 7
Question 17.
One ".. . . is not obliged to import through a commercial agent .. . .".  Are there differing
requirements for importers who use an agent as opposed to those who do not?
Reply:
No, there are no different requirements for those who use a commercial agent and those who
do not use such an agent.
Question 18.
If a foreign supplier does not appoint a commercial agent does the supplier need an Omani
partner?  Conversely, if a commercial agent is appointed does the supplier need an Omani
partner?
Reply:
No, the supplier does not need an Omani partner if he does not appoint a commercial agent.
If he appoints a commercial agent, the supplier again does not need an Omani partner.
Question 19.
The answer to question 8 of document WT/ACC/OMN/9 states:  "In accordance with Article 8
of the Unified Economic Agreement of GCC countries, GCC citizens are treated as Omani
citizens .. . ." and ".. . this Article is being implemented in a progressive manner".  Pleaseexplain in detail, with special attention to a timetable, Oman’s movement to treat GCC citizens
as Omani citizens.
Reply:
During successive years, measures had been taken to treat GCC citizens as Omani citizens.
Some of the concrete and comprehensive examples of the progressive implementation of Article 8 ofthe Unified Economic Agreement of GCC countries adopted by Oman are as follows:
- Ministry of Health – Ministerial Resolution No. 18/95 issued on 5 May 1995 allowing
GCC citizens the freedom of undertaking economic activity in health services.
- Ministry of Education – Ministerial Resolution No. 24/96 issued on 11 February 1996
allowing GCC citizens the freedom of undertaking economic activity in educationalaspects.
- Authority for Vocational Training – The Authority Resolution No. 313/96 issued on 21
July 1996 allowing GCC citizens freedom of undertaking economic activity in
establishing private vocational training institutes and centers.
- Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor and Vocational Training – Ministerial Resolution
No. 99/96 issued on 29 September 1996 allowing GCC citizens freedom of undertaking
economic activity in establishing private children nurseries (attachment No. 4).
- Ministry of National Economy – Ministerial Resolution No. 33/97 issued on 5 July 1997
allowing GCC citizens freedom of moveme nt and employment in Oman (attachment
No. 5).WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 8
Question 20.
Concerning the response to question 9^ (WT/ACC/OMN/9), please indicate how the GCC is not
a full-fledged free trade area in services, eg. which sector or other aspects are not covered?
Reply:
A full-fledged free trade area depends on the gradual and firm progress made by GCC to pass
different economic stages on its march to full economic integration.  GCC countries are actually
adopting and implementing some of the main characteristics of a Common Market, and efforts are on
the way to adopt more.  As regards the services sector, the aspects which are not yet allowed include
insurance, transport (road, sea and air) and agency activities.
Question 21.
Following up on question 10 (WT/ACC/OMN/9), since the Oman Commercial Agency Law
prohibits foreign companies and foreigners from being appointed as agents, thus limitingimportation through only an Omani national or  a joint-venture with an Omani company, how
can Oman contend that imported goods are accorded treatment no less favourable than
domestic goods, whose sale and distribution are not subject to similar requirements?
Reply:
The sale of domestic Omani goods is subject to exactly the same requirements as those to
imported goods.  There is absolutely no denial of or departure from the principle of national
treatment.  Omani domestic goods can be distributed by producers/exporters only through individuals
or companies which are registered in the Commercial Register as distributors of goods.  Similarly,
imported goods can be distributed also through indi viduals or companies which are registered in the
Commercial Register as distributors of goods.  We do not find any violation of or departure from the
provisions of Article III of GATT 1994.
Question 22.
We seek Oman’s assistance in clarifying th e information provided to date on Commercial
Agencies, so that we may better understand how Oman’s Commercial Agencies Law relates to
the requirement in GATT Article III: 4 that imports from WTO Members shall receivetreatment no less favourable than th at accorded to like products of national origin in respect of
all laws, regulations and requirements affecting th eir internal sale, offering for sale, purchase,
transportation, distribution or use.
Reply:
Please refer to replies to questions 9 to 21 above which explain the position.  Attention is also
invited to replies to question 59 in documen t WT/ACC/OMN/5, to question 96 in document
WT/ACC/OMN/6/Add 1 and question 7 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9.
To sum up, the Law on Commercial Agencies is not in any way violative of the provisions of
Article III of GATT 1994, including paragraph 4 of that Article, as the Law does not obligate a
foreign supplier or a foreign exporter to appoint a commercial agent in Oman or to sell or export his
goods to Oman only through a commercial agent.  He  may appoint a commercial agent if he so likes,
but he may sell, export or distribute goods wit hout going through a commercial agent.  Imported
goods are thus not in any way given a less favourable treatment as compared with domestically
produced goods.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 9
Question 23.
We seek confirmation that Oman has no special or unique registration requirements for persons
or firms engaging in importing or exportin g goods except as provided in WTO Agreements;
that individuals and firms are not restricted in their ability to import or export goods based on
the scope of business or their registration and th at they can easily change their registration to
allow for trade; that there are no restrictions, such as capital or nationality requirements, on
firms wishing to engage in foreign trade; and th at the criteria for registration are published in
the official journal and generally applicable to all.
Reply:
It is so confirmed.
Question 24.
Regarding question 9 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9; is Oman able to respond to this question
yet?
Reply:
Please refer to reply to question 20 above.
(b) Characteristics of national tariff
Question 25.The response to question 11 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 states that "Oman intends to
implement the HS System at the 6-digit level".  We understand that Oman is prepared to
negotiate its WTO goods market access commitments in H/s nomenclature.  Oman is to be
congratulated for this effort, which will clearly fa cilitate the negotiation.  Please outline progress
towards implementation of 6-digit HS System in Oman’s applied customs tariff and whenconversion will be completed.
Reply:
Oman is already working towards implementation of Harmonized System at 6-digit level for
purposes of customs classification.  As announced by H.E. the Minister of Commerce and Industry of
Oman at the third meeting of the Working Party held on 2 October 1998, Oman will implement theHarmonized System from June 1999.
Question 26.
We are pleased that Oman is in the process of implementing a six-digit HS system.  Can Oman
provide some further detail on how it is progr essing with the implementation of the HS 96
system?
Reply:
Please see reply to question 25 above.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 10
Question 27.
We acknowledge Oman’s good intentions in regard to its undertaking not to apply provisions of
the Law on Organization and Encouragement of Industry that are not in conformity with WTO
rules.  We would expect that Oman will modify laws that are inconsistent with the WTO rules
prior to accession.  If this is not possible in this case, can Oman explain how and to what extentthe WTO Treaty would take precedence over domestic laws in this area?
Reply:
The Law on Organization and Encouragement of industry will be amended, prior to Oman’s
accession to the WTO, to bring it into conformity with WTO rules.
Question 28.
We appreciate Oman’s undertaking (in the reply to question 13) not to apply the provisions of
the Law on Organization and Encouragement of Industry which are not in conformity with theWTO rules, and to amend clause 4 of Article 19 of the same Law.  Could Oman keep the
Working Party members informed of any development concerning other possible amendments
to the same Law?
Reply:
The Law is being revised to bring it in to conformity with WTO rules.  The
revision/amendment will be completed prior to Oman’s accession to the WTO.  The Working Party
will be informed when the draft revision is ready.
(d) Other duties and charges, specifying any charges for services rendered
Question 29.
To follow up on questions 13 and 16 of document WT/ACC/OMN/9, regarding the Law on
Organization and Encouragement of Industry:  Has Oman determined how it will modify the
Law on Organization and Encouragement of Industry?  If so, please describe the modifications
in detail.  If not, when will this determination be made?
Reply:
Oman has made a preliminary determination to delete Clause 4 of Article 19 of the Law on
Organization and Encouragement of Industry.  Other aspects of the Law are being examined.  As soon
as draft amendments are ready, the Working Party will be informed.  As stated earlier, the
revision/amendment of the Law will be completed before Oman’s accession to the WTO.
Question 30.
While we appreciate the confirmation that the law would not be used in conflict with WTO
provisions, we would prefer that those aspects of the law that provide for the application of
charges in excess of Oman’s bindings without recourse to WTO provisions in this area be
changed prior to accession, to eliminat e the possibility of further conflict.
Reply:
It will be so done.  Please refer to replies to Questions 27, 28 and 29 above.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 11
Question 31.
Can Oman confirm its position on other duties and charges (ODCs) of a kind covered by Article
II: 1(b) of the GATT 1994?  The report from the last meeting indicated that Oman did not
intend to use ODCs, but they did not clarify whether they would be bound at zero.
Reply:
Oman does not apply other duties and charges (ODC’s) and will not apply such duties in
future.  It will bind ODC’s at zero.
Question 32.
In answering question 14, Oman stated that ". . . because of the small size of the port no other
corporation has so far approached the Port Authority for a contract".  If another company
wanted to enter the market despite the small si ze of the part, how would this corporation go
about getting approval and getting a contract?
Reply:
The Port Authority’s present thinking is not to encourage another corporation to enter the
market as more than one company doing the work in a small port would likely adversely affect the
port services as for neither of the companies the operation would be economical.
Question 33.
Oman’s response to question 17 asserted that for a foreign company to participate in the
activities of those services in which the Port Services Corporation is currently engaged, "The
interested company has to apply to the Port Author ity . . .".  What does the application process
entail and upon what factors does the decision making process depend?
Reply:
Please see reply to question 32 above.
(e) Quantitative import restrictions, including prohibitions, quotas and licensing 
systems.
Question 34.
We understand that Oman has lifted the quantitative restrictions on imports of eggs and milk.
Have consequential amendments been made to the import licensing arrangements?  If so, does
the reply to the import licensing questionnaire (document WT/ACC/OMN/5/Add.2) need to be
amended?
Reply:
Oman has not yet lifted quantitative restrictions on import of eggs and milk.  However, Oman
said earlier and it repeats that quantitative restrictions on import of eggs and milk will be lifted before
Oman joins the WTO.  Consequential changes in import licensing will be made.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 12
Question 35.
We commend Oman for its commitment to eliminate the prohibition on importation of
petroleum products (reply to question 26).  We would appreciate further details on the steps
that Oman intends to take in this direction.
Reply:
Oman would eliminate the prohibition on importation of petroleum products upon accession
to the WTO.
Question 36.
Following up on questions 20 and 21, by what standards does the Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs
and Telephones grant authorization for the import of radio sets and wireless telegraphs?  How
is this authorization obtained?
Reply:
Authorization is granted by the ITU standards or by other internationally recognized
standards, such as CEPT standards.
Authorization is obtained from the Ministry of PTT for all wireless equipment which have to
be licensed.
Question 37.
In response to question 22 Oman answered that "Anyone importin g telecommunications
equipment which will interface with the GTO Network need type approval and authorization
from the GTO.  However, if the equipment involves radio frequency, it has also to be cleared
with the Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Te lephones".  In cases where the decision of the
GTO and Ministry of Posts, Telegraphs and Telephones conflict, which ruling holds the mostauthority?  Moreover, how must telecommunicat ions equipment comply with current standards
to attain type approval?
Reply:
Where the decisions of the GTO and the Ministry of PTT conflict, the decisions of the
Ministry hold the most authority.
Telecom equipment would attain type approval if they meet: (i)  frequency standards,
(ii)  radiation standards, (iii) interface conditions if they are to be interconnected, and (iv)  signalling
standards where applicable.
Question 38.
In document WT/ACC/OMN/9 question 23, Oman noted that regarding the export of lobster
and abalone, at the end of the fishing season, exports can be made from the registered stock
only.  Does the same rule apply for domestic sales of lobster and abalone?  Does this rule applyto both foreign and Omani companies?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 13
Reply:
Yes, the same rule applies to domestic sales of lobster and abalone, and it applies to both
foreign and Omani companies.
Question 39
We would like for Oman to supply in circulated documentation its list of its current and
authorized bans and restrictions applied to imports and exports, by tariff line item and, as
appropriate, the WTO justification for applying th e restriction.  This will assist the Working
Party and developing appropriate protocol commitments.
Reply:
The list of banned items is attached.  WTO justification is given for each item.
(h) Customs valuation
Question 40.We have reviewed document WT/ACC/OMN/13 and we are pleased to note that Oman has
begun to take steps to implement the Customs Valuation Agreement.  We believe, however, that
the timeline outlined in this document can be accelerated.  As noted in document
WT/ACC/OMN/13, much of Oman’s current practice is not in conflict with the Agreement.  We
intend to work with Oman to assist in adoption in Oman law and regulation the provisions ofthe Agreement.
Reply:
Though Oman’s current valuation practice is in essence not in conflict with the Customs
Valuation Agreement, the detailed laws, regulations, procedures and administrative guidelines have to
be drafted, approved and issued, and the customs staff has to be trained.  We believe the time frameindicated in document WT/ACC/OMN/13 is reas onable.  Oman welcomes offers of technical
assistance.
Question 41.
Can Oman provide details of work undertaken to implement the Customs Valuation
Agreement?
We welcome the steps that Oman has taken so fa r to bring its customs valuation system towards
conformity with the WTO Agreement and the action plan that Oman has submitted in this
connection.  However, it seems that Oman is intending to take an unnecessarily long time to
undertake some steps, in particular the preparat ion of implementing regulations, administrative
guidelines and manuals.  We are wondering if Oman would be able to conduct this step
concurrently with other phases, in particular at the same time as the legislative phase planned
for the first half of 2000.  Based on the timetable provided, this would allow Oman to implementa WTO-consistent customs valuation system by the end of the year 2000 – a full year ahead of
Oman’s currently envisaged timetable.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 14
Reply:
The Sultanate of Oman is seriously working towards implementation of the Customs
Valuation Agreement.  An expert of the World Cu stoms Organization visited Oman in the beginning
of November 1998 and held a workshop and intensive meetings for implementation of the Customs
Valuation Agreement.  A Task Force has been set up for this purpose.
We believe the action plan submitted in document WT/ACC/OMN/13 is reasonable and
cannot be abridged as Oman is starting from a scratch in this area.
Question 42.
We commend Oman for undertaking to apply the Customs Valuation Agreement upon
accession.  Could Oman update document WT/ACC/OMN/13 to this end?  We would be
interested in being regularly updated on the steps that Oman will take in the implementation of
the Agreement.
Reply:
Please refer to replies to questions 40 and 41 above.  We would keep the Working Party
informed of further developments.
Question 43.
We seek a commitment from Oman that it will fully apply the WTO provisions concerning
customs valuation from the date of accession  without recourse to a transition period.
Reply:
Oman will implement the Agreement on Cust oms Valuation Agreement in accordance with
the Action Plan submitted in document WT/ACC/OMN/13.
(j) Pre-shipment inspection
Question 44.
Does Oman use pre-shipment inspection services for valuation or certification purposes?  If so,
please describe the system used.
Reply:
No, Oman does not use pre-shipment inspection services for valuation or certification
purposes.
(k) Application of internal taxes on imports
Question 45.
We understand that Oman is in the process of changing the tax system applied to domestic and
foreign firms.  We would appreciate details on this point.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 15
Reply:
A study about the tax system in the Sultanate is being carried out by a reputable international
consultant.  It is expected that it would be submitted to the authorities by late December 1998 for
review and approval.  It is hoped that some sound recommendations regarding the tax system applied
to domestic and foreign firms might be adopted.
(m) Anti-dumping regime
(n) Countervailing duty regime
(o) Safeguard regime
Question 46.
The response to question 32 states that Oman wi ll bring into conformity with WTO rules its
policies on anti-dumping, countervailing duties, and safeguard regimes only after it becomes a
Member of the WTO.  Oman should comply wi th WTO rules prior to accession to avoid
problems with implementation of trade remedie s in a manner consistent with the WTO after
accession.  If Oman has a time frame for the implementation of these Agreements, please
describe it for the Working Party.
Reply:
At present Oman does not have anti-dumping, count ervailing or safeguard legislation.  It will
not be possible for Oman to draft and enact these laws before it joins the WTO, as Oman has to enact
or amend a number of other laws to ensure full conformity with WTO agreements.
Oman commits and assures the Working Party that it will not apply anti-dumping,
countervailing or safeguard measures unless it has WTO-consistent laws in these areas.
Question 47.
We seek a commitment from Oman in the protocol  and Working Party text that it will not apply
any anti-dumping, countervailing or safeguard measure until it had implemented appropriate
laws in conformity with the provisions of the WTO Agreements on the Implementation of
Article VI, on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures and on Safeguards.  In addition, in the
elaboration of any legislation concerning anti-dumping duties, countervailing duties andsafeguards, Oman would ensure their full conformity with the relevant WTO provisions,
including Article VI and XIXI of the GATT 1994 and the Agreement on the Implementation of
Article VI, the Agreement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures and the Agreement on
Safeguards.  After such legislation was implem ented, Oman should only apply any antidumping
duties, countervailing duties and safeguard measures in full conformity with the relevant WTO
provisions.
Reply:
Oman is prepared to give the required commitm ent in the protocol and in the Working Party
report.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 16
Question 48.
The response to question 33 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 states that Oman will not apply
Article 19, paragraph 4, of the Law on the Organization and Encouragement of Industry after it
joins the WTO.  As this section of the law involves WTO-inconsistent measures, will Oman
commit to repeal this provision upon accession?
Reply:
Yes, Oman will repeal this provision upon accession.
2. Export Regulation
(f) Export financing, subsidy and promotion policies
Question 49.
The answer to question 37, (document WT/ACC/OMN/9) states that "No government funded
institution provides loans for export industries".  Please define and describe the role of theOman Development Bank, with emphasis on its role as an alternative to private sources of
funding, at commercial rates of interest.
Reply:
The Oman Development Bank is an Omani shareholding company established under a Royal
Decree.  The share capital of the Bank currently st ands at RO 10 million, of which the Government of
Oman holds a 51 per cent share.  The Oman Development Bank provides soft loans to agricultural,
industrial and services projects in terms of Royal Decree No. 17/97 (details discussed elsewhere, and
copy of the Royal Decree already submitted to the Working Party - WT/ACC/OMN/9).  These soft
loans are available to all industries and enterprises on the basis of objective, published criteria (as in
Royal Decree No. 17/97).  The loans are not sp ecific to certain enterprises or industries.
Question 50.
We understand that there are a number of new industrial projects proposed, including the
Sohar aluminium smelter, a petrochemical joint-venture that is like to produce polyethylene for
export, a fertilizer plant, and possibly a new sugar refinery.  Is Oman government support to be
provided for these projects?
Reply:
No, the Government of Oman is not providing any government support to the proposed large
projects including Sohar Aluminium Smelter, a petroc hemical joint venture and a fertilizer plant and a
possible new sugar factory.
Question 51.
Are Oman government subsidies or incentive s provided, through the Omani Development
Board or otherwise?  If so, could details be provided?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 17
Reply:
Please see reply to question 49 above.  The loans provided by Oman Development Bank are
in the nature of permissible, non-actionable subsidies as these are not limited to and not specific to
certain enterprises or industries or groups of enterprises or industries.  These are available to all
enterprises and industries on the basis of objective, published criteria.  (For more details, please seereply to questions 171 and 172 in document WT/ACC/OMN/5).
Question 52.
Are there any subsidies or incentives that relate to export performance?
Reply:
There are no subsidies or incentives that relate to export performance.
Question 53.
Are there any subsidies or incentives that pr ovide preferences to Omani products, services or
individuals?
Reply:
There are no subsidies or incentives that provide preferences to Omani products or services.
Royal Decree No. 17/97 provides that soft loans for projects whose investment cost exceeds RO
250,000 shall, inter alia, be granted to projects in which Omanis own no less than 51 per cent of thecapital of the project throughout the validity period of the loan.
Question 54.
With regard to the Export Guarantee and Financing Unit of the Oman Development Bank,
what are the criteria for determining whether a product is Omani or not?
Reply:
There are no criteria under the EGFU to determine whether a product is Omani or not.
In order to be eligible for interest subsidy in relation to export credit, value added criteria are
prescribed.  However, according to the criteria the el ements of value added are: "labour costs, interest,
depreciation, taxes and net profit".  There is no requirement of use of domestic over imported goods.
Question 55.
In response to question 41, document WT/ACC/OMN/9, Oman states that the rate at which
Omani commercial banks grant all credit-insured exporters a post-shipment advance is much
less than what US Eximbank, ECGD and Coface of fer to their exporters.  Will this low rate
continue even after Oman accedes to the WTO?
Reply:
Yes, the low rate will continue, subject to developments in global interest rates.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 18
Question 56.
In response to question 42 (document WT/ACC/OMN/9) Oman states that under Oman’s Royal
Decree No. 17/1997 ".. . . loans are not conditional on export performance or local content
requirements".  Are the loans conditional on any performance requirements?  If so, please
specify.
Reply:
In terms of Royal Decree No. 17/97, lo ans exceeding RO 250,000 are conditional on the
requirement that the project undertakes to employ Omanis at a minimum of 25 per cent of the total
workforce of the project.
Question 57.
Will Oman confirm that as stated in the reply to question 133 in document
WT/ACC/OMN/6/Add. 1, Royal Decree No. 49/91 has been superseded by Royal DecreeNo. 17/1997 under which loans are not conditiona l on export performance or local content
requirements?
Reply:
It is confirmed that Ministerial Decree No. 49/91 has been superseded by Royal Decree No.
17/97.
Question 58.
Do Oman government-funded institutions grant loans for industrial projects which produce for
export?  If so, please cite the law that provides for this.  Please indicate which institutions are
involved and the conditions on which the loans are granted.
Reply:
The answer to the question is : No.
Question 59.
Can Oman indicate if it can confirm that it does not maintain subsidies which meet the
definition of a prohibited subsidy, within the meaning of Article 3 of the Agreement on
Subsidies and Countervailing Measures and that it would not introduce such prohibitedsubsidies in the future?
Reply:
Oman confirms that it does not maintain subsidies which meet the definition of a prohibited
subsidy within the meaning of Article 3 of the Ag reement on Subsidies and Countervailing Measures.
Oman further confirms that it would not intr oduce such prohibited subsidies in the future.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 19
3. Internal Policies Affecting Foreign Trade in Goods
(a) Industrial policy, including subsidy policies
Question 60.
Following up on question 47, has the Venture Capital Fund been established?  Over what period
of time will it be implemented?  Please provid e details on the type of loans being considered.
Reply:
The Venture Capital Fund has not been established.  As and when it is established, a
notification giving all details will be submitted to the WTO.
Question 61.
We request further clarification to Oman’s answer in response to question 48.  Oman has stated
that "Import substitution is only an indicative  objective of economic policy".  How does the
Government of Oman support import substitution implicitly?
Reply:
As stated earlier, the Government of Oman does not take any specific measures for import
substitution industries.  It encourages such industries by promotional measures such as studies on the
scope and potential of such industries, but it does not provide any particular financial support or
incentives for these industries, apart from generally available subsidies (which are available to allindustries) in terms of Royal Decree No. 17/97.
(b) Technical regulations and standards, including measures taken at the border with 
respect to imports.
Question 62.
In document WT/ACC/OMN/12 and in its response to question 49 in document
WT/ACC/OMN/9, Oman commits to implement the TBT Agreement as from the date of its
accession to the WTO.  When will the Government of the Sultanate of Oman fully conform to
the requirements of the Agreement on Technical Ba rriers to Trade in Annex-3 of the Standards
Agreement?
Reply:
As stated in the Action Plan a decree implementing the TBT Agreement will be issued by
September 1999.  Oman will be fully implementing the TBT Agreement by the time of its accession
to the WTO.
Question 63.
We commend Oman for undertaking to apply the TBT Agreement upon accession.  Oman says
on page 2 of document WT/ACC/OMN/12 that DGSM is the only government agency
responsible for issuing and enforcing technical regulations and mandatory standards.  Are thereother government departments/agencies responsible for voluntary standards?  Are there any
non-government standards bodies?  If so, have they signed (or do they intend to sign) the Code
of Good Practice?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 20
Reply:
The Directorate General for Specifications and Measurements (DGSM) within the Ministry of
Commerce and Industry is the only National Sta ndards Body (NSB) in Oman responsible for
mandatory and voluntary standards.  There are no other governmental or non-governmental bodies
responsible for standards.
Question 64.
Oman says in document WT/ACC/OMN/12 that her analysis of the TBT compatibility of her
current system will be completed by December 1998.  We would be grateful if Oman would
circulate the result of the study to WTO members.
Reply:
The attached table shows that the Omani procedures for the most part conform with the
provisions of Annex 3 of TBT Agreement, Code of Good Practice for the preparation, adoption andapplication of standards.  For the points which are not in conformity with the provisions of Annex 3 –
the necessary changes will take place prior to accession to the WTO.
Question 65.
Oman says in document WT/ACC/OMN/12 that she will begin drafting  a Ministerial Decree in
January 1999.  We would appreciate if Oman would provide a copy of the draft to WTOMembers for comment.
Reply:
A copy of the draft decree will be provided to WTO members soon after it is ready.
Question 66.
The answer to question 50 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 refers to the use of a "competent
body".  Please define the "competent body" and how it will be selected by the DGSM in the
manufacturers’ country of origin to award th e Omani Quality Mark.  Must it be an Omani
company?
Reply:
The "competent body" which will be selected by the DGSM in the manufacturer’s country of
origin to award the Omani Quality Mark could be any independent accredited laboratory or any
independent testing and inspection body, satisfying the requirements of ISO/IEC Guide 39 – General
requirements for the acceptance of inspection bodies.  It will not necessarily be an Omani Company.
Question 67.
Will the "competent body" abide by the same standards and testing procedures as the DGSM
does in Oman?  Will the DGSM directly oversee it s  a c t i o n s ?   W i l l  t h e  f e e s  v a r y  f r o m  t h o s e
charged by the DGSM?  Will the DGSM charge both Omani and foreign companies the sameprices?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 21
Reply:
The competent body will abide by the same standards and testing procedures as the DGSM
does in Oman.  Its activities will be overseen by DGSM.  The fees will be equitable as between
Omani and foreign companies.
Question 68.
Following up on question 51 of document WT/ACC/OMN/9, has the DGSM issued its
regulations for the Omani Quality Mark?
Reply:
The regulations for Omani Quality Mark have not yet been issued.  These will be issued
within a period of six months.
Question 69.
We applaud Oman’s efforts to assess the conformity of its laws and procedures with the WTO
TBT provisions.  This is a necessary step in the accession process.  In the interests of advancing
the WTO Working Party process, as well as ex pediting its compliance with TBT rules, we
encourage Oman to share the p reliminary results of its review.
Reply:
The preliminary results will be shared with the Working Party.
Question 70.
At present, Oman’s regulatory system is no t consistent with WTO TBT requirements.  In
particular, we note Oman’s legal and administrative provisions do not adequately address
fundamental obligations, such as transparency, non-discrimination and national treatment, and
the prohibition of unnecessary barriers to trade.   In the area of transparency, for instance,
Oman does not formally publish a public notice that draft standards, technical regulations or
conformity assessment procedures are being considered.  Oman does not appear to provide a
proper opportunity for all parties to comment on  draft procedures and Omani final standards
are not promptly published.  Omani administrative decrees do not appear to explicitly address
the fundamental obligations of non-discrimination and national treatment for importedproducts.  It is not clear how Omani proced ures explicitly ensure the standards-related
measures it develops and applies are no more trade-restrictive than necessary.  Understanding
specific TBT obligations, and identifying shortfal ls in Oman’s regulatory system, is essential
before work on an effective Ministerial Decree begins.  We look forward to working
cooperatively with Oman as it develops necessary implementation procedures for the
Agreement.
Reply:
The Action Plan submitted by Oman in document OMN/12 confirms that Oman’s present
regulatory system on TBT does not fully measure up to the various requirements of the TBT
Agreement.  As stated in the Action Plan, Oman w ill rectify this situation by issuing an appropriate
decree before its accession to the WTO.  We appreciate and welcome offers of technical assistance.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 22
(c) Sanitary and phytosanitary measures, including measures taken with respect to 
imports.
Question 71.
We draw attention to the related disciplines in  the TBT and SPS Agreements of transparency,
non-discrimination and national treatment, and the appropriate use of international standards.Many of the efforts in implementing the TBT may strengthen Oman’s ability to implement
similar aspects of the SPS Agreement.  Will the legislation noted in document
WT/ACC/OMN/12 also apply to SPS issues?  Is the action plan outlined in document
WT/ACC/OMN/12 intended to address similar aspects of the SPS Agreement as well?  If so,
could Oman indicate this to the Working Part y, and note where such overlap is expected.
Reply:
Yes, the legislation will address similar aspects of the SPS Agreement, in particular in the
areas of transparency, MFN treatment, national treatment, comments on draft measures etc.
Question 72.
Has Oman conducted an assessment similar to that noted in document WT/ACC/OMN/12 of its
laws and procedures with respect to the SPS Agreement?  Will Oman provide a document
similar to document WT/ACC/OMN/12 for SPS issues that contain an action plan for the reviewor implementation of the Agreement?  In th e interests of advancing the WTO Working Party
process, as well as expediting its compliance with SPS Agreement, we encourage Oman to carry
out such a review and share the preliminary results of its review with the Working Party.
Reply:
An assessment is being conducted.  Oman will shortly provide a document similar to
OMN/12 containing action plan for implementation of the SPS Agreement.
Question 73.
We are concerned that Oman may not be making equal progress on reviewing its
implementation of the SPS Agreement as is demonstrated in document WT/ACC/OMN/12 for
the Agreement on TBT.  There are clear overlaps and potential synergies in the effortsdescribed in document WT/ACC/OMN/12 vis-à-vis TBT for implementation of the SPS
Agreement as well.  If a review of compatibility with the SPS Agreement were to be accelerated,
common areas between the two Agreements could be addressed simultaneously in the processes
of implementation.
Reply:
Please refer to replies to questions 71 and 72 above.
Question 74.
Concerning shelf-life requirements, in Oman’s view, how do GCC shelf-life standards differ
from SPS Agreement requirements?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 23
Reply:
SPS Agreement provides that no member should be prevented from enforcing measures
necessary to protect human, animal or plant life or health, subject to the requirement that these
measures are not applied in a manner which would constitute a means of unjustifiable discrimination
between domestic and imported products, and would not constitute a disguised restriction on trade.
Oman government’s legitimate responsibility is to ensure the products reach the consumers in
a safe condition of use.  Codex defines shelf life as the period during which the food keeps its
Microbiological and sensory quality at a specific temperature of storage.  Codex states that the
purpose of date marking and shelf life is to provide the consumer the information about the expected
quality of the product provided that it has been property stored.  Besides, mandatory shelf-life dates
and marking of foodstuffs will help the government authorities to prescribe maximum storage periods
for food products, and to inform the consumer when key quality attributes are at their optimum levelsin the product (i.e., nutritional values and product characteristics).  In highly perishable products (i.e.
dairy products) these shelf life dates can also provide information on spoilage and contamination.
Shelf-stable products are normally stored under room/ambient temperature.  The shelf-life estimated
by most foodstuff manufacturers, for shelf-stable products is based on assumptions that storage
temperatures would not exceed 25
o C.  While the actual temperatures at which shelf-stable products
were being stored (conditions of the Gulf region) vary drastically due to wide fluctuations between
day and night and different seasons and regions, ranging from 10o C to 55o C averaging 33o C on a
year round basis, coupled with extreme variations in  relative humidity.  It is known that the rate of
chemical reactions doubles with 10o C increase in temperature.  In addition the microbial activity
dreadfully intensifies at a temperature of 20-30o C.
Researchers use a general rule of halving a specific shelf-life period for every 10o C increase
in temperature.  A study conducted by Natic Res earch for the US Army found that shelf-life periods
of shelf-stable products under a constant storage temperature of 32.22o C are generally half those
determined 21.1o C, thereby confirming Arrhenius Equation and the Q10 rule used by researchers.
Nevertheless, comparison of shelf-life periods actually determined by GCC countries with the resultsof the study shows that they generally fall in the mid-range between the period determined by the
study at these two storage temperatures.  In the case of several products, the GCC shelf-life period
coincided with the study’s 21.1
o C condition, with only few exceptions coinciding with the 32.22o C
condition (e.g. highly risky products such as baby food).  Thus, GCC shelf-life determinations for
shelf-stable products are in fact less strict then warranted by the climatic and infrastructural conditions
of the region.
In determining shelf-life of any food product, GCC countries take into consideration and keep
up with the latest developments and improvements in processing and preservation methods, type of
packaging etc.
In fact, any Government, national industry asso ciation or individual manufacturer adopting
unique durability extending techniques is always welcome to submit relevant technical evidence and
request consideration of specific shelf-life determination.  The case will be studied by the GCCStandards Organization, and if valid, the relevant shelf-life standard will be amended accordingly.
The requirement for half the shelf-life of an imported food product to remain valid at time of
its entry into a GCC country, is purely a marketing requirement.  The 50 per cent of shelf-life allowed
to be lost before entry exceeds the time required for shipping food products from the most distant
exporting country to the region, thereby accounting for any inherent geographical disadvantagebetween countries, and insuring non-discrimination in treatment.  Even with the half shelf-life
requirement imposed, the local distributors are still at a disadvantage situation when buying importedWT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 24
food products versus domestically manufactured products, whereby the latter can provide full shelf-
life and freshness utility.  Needless to mention, food products arriving in GCC countries with
inadequate or close-to-expiry shelf-life remaining,  would put unreasonable strain on the distribution
and marketing system and may wind up having to be wasted, thereby inflicting unnecessary losses on
the national economy of these countries.
Question 75.
Following up on question 53 of document WT/ACC/OMN/9, please indicate the costs and time
generally necessary for inspection under Oman’s shelf-life requirements.
Reply:
There are no costs involved in inspections.  The time is very short, almost insignificant.
Question 76.
We commend Oman for undertaking to apply the SPSP Agreement upon accession.  We would
be interested in being regularly updated on the steps that Oman will take in this direction.
Reply:
Oman will keep the Working Party regularly in formed on the steps it will take to implement
the SPS Agreement from the date of accession.
(d) Trade-related investment measures
Question 77.
Can Oman confirm that it does not maintain any measures inconsistent with the TRIMs
Agreement and would apply the TRIMs Agreement from the date of accession without recourse
to any transitional period?
Reply:
Oman confirms that it does not maintain any measures inconsistent with the TRIMS
Agreement and would apply the TRIMS Agreement from the date of accession.  Oman does not need
any transitional period as it does not maintain prohibited TRIMS.
(e) State-trading practices
Question 78.To clarify Oman’s answer to question 54, please report on the progress of the privatization of
PAMAP.  After privatization, will its role in regulation of agricultural supply be replaced by
another State institution?
Reply:
The PAMAP will hopefully be privatized in 1999.  After privatization, its role will not be
replaced by another state institution.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 25
Question 79.
If PAMAP is still in operation when this negotiation concludes, we seek agreement from Oman
that it will be notified as a state-trading ent erprises and that any trade restrictions or other
measures it manages inconsistent with WTO wi ll be eliminated.  In any case, we seek a
statement on the status of the organization be incorporated in the Working Party Report.
Reply:
The PAMAP will hopefully be privatized in 1999.  In the very unlikely eventuality that the
PAMAP is still in operation when Oman joins the WTO, it is confirmed that Oman will notify it as a
state enterprise and that any trade restrictions or other measures it manages inconsistent with the
WTO will be eliminated.
(l) Government procurement practices
Question 80.The answer to question 56 states that "Oman will not join the Agreement on Government
Procurement".  Please explain why Oman will not join the Agreement, which was developed to
maximize efficiency and fairness in procurement.
Reply:
Oman does not intend to join the Agreement on Government Procurement as it is a
plurilateral agreement and not a multilateral trade agreement, and that joining this Agreement is not a
necessary requirement of WTO membership.  The Agreement has been accepted by less than 30 WTO
countries.  More than 100 WTO members have not joined this Agreement.
Having said that, Oman confirms that after accession it will participate in the work of the
working group on transparency in government procur ement procedures and will join any multilateral
agreement that is adopted by consensus by WTO members.
Question 81.
Further clarifying question 56, please explain how Oman currently ensures the transparency of
procedures and the practice of government procurement, such as:
- where the publication of an opportunity will be placed;
- the procedures to participate in procurement;
- qualification of suppliers;
- conditions for gaining contracts; and
- the procedures for suppliers to appeal the government’s decision..
In addition, would publications of opportunities and other regulations be made in the English
language?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 26
Reply:
The transparency of practices and procedures of government procurement are ensured by the
Tender Law of Oman and other related laws prevailing in the Sultanate of Oman.  In particular,
transparency is ensured as follows:
The publications of tenders are placed in local newspapers, radio, TV, official gazette, the
internet and in some international magazine (MEED).  Tender opportunities are published in Arabic
and English.
The procedures to participate in tenders have been specified in the Tender Law and
regulations.
The qualifications of suppliers are based on the nature of goods and services required as per
the tender notice and tender documents.
The conditions for gaining contracts for the qualified suppliers/contractors are based on price
factor and fair competition while fulfilling specification requirements.
Suppliers have the right to appeal for review of tender decisions.  The procedures for appeal
have been specified in the Tender Law and regulations.
4. Policies Affecting Foreign Trade in Agricultural Products
(a) ImportsQuestion 82.
Please confirm that Oman will eliminate all import bans and quantitative restrictions on
agricultural products (eg., eggs, milk, fruits, vege tables) upon accession, in accordance with the
provisions of the Agricultural Agreement, and replace them, as necessary, only with WTO-
consistent requirements.
Reply:
It is confirmed that upon accession Oman will eliminate import bans and quantitative
restrictions on agricultural products and replace them, as necessary, only with WTO-consistent
measures.
V. TRADE-RELATED INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY REGIME
1. General
Question 83.
We appreciate Oman’s status report, contained in document WT/ACC/OMN/11, on
implementation of the WTO Agreement on Trade Related Aspects of Intellectual Property.  It
indicates that Oman acknowledges the gaps in it s current legal and enforcement framework for
the protection of intellectual property, and ou tlines, in general terms, the current plans for
addressing those gaps.  We have some reservations, however, about the times forimplementation proposed, in that they do no t correspond with Oman’s stated objective of
completing its accession negotiations on an accelerated basis.  We remain convinced that
compliance with TRIPS obligations on the date of  accession, without transition, is both possibleWT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 27
and desirable.  This objective is a standard policy for us in accession negotiations.  We look
forward to reviewing the draft laws noted in th e action plan, and working close with Oman to
carry out the plan.  To achieve this goal, we be lieve that the Working Party can assist Oman by
reviewing its draft laws and regulations, and by providing comments and other advice on
implementation.
Reply:
The statement has been noted.  Oman is in the process of revising/enacting intellectual
property laws in line with the Action Plan and in li ne with the statement made by H.E. the Minister of
Commerce and Industry of Oman at the third mee ting of the Working Party held on 2 October 1998.
Question 84.
Oman has taken a number of steps in relation  to its intellectual property regime which are
briefly described in the answers to questions 63 to 78 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 (eg.decisions to join the Paris and Berne Conv entions, amendment and drafting of laws,
establishment of a copyright office).  Can Oman provide a fuller report on recent progress?
Reply:
A fuller report is contained in document  WT/ACC/OMN/11, and H.E. the Minister of
Commerce and Industry’s statement at the third meeting of the Working Party on 2 October 1998,copy of the statement attached.
Question 85.
Given the relatively rudimentary nature of Omani legislation on intellectual property rights,
would Oman provide regular up-dates on the legislative steps taken?  Such up-dates should also
specify the legal issue Oman intends to tack (including the time-frames).  In this respect
document WT/ACC/SPEC/OMN/5 is too general.  Regarding paragraph 17 of that document, it
would be interesting to know the reasoning behind the different implementation periods for the
enforcement of intellectual property rights concerning literary works; performers, producers of
phonograms, broadcasting organizations and computer software.
Reply:
Document WT/ACC/SPEC/OMN/ 5 has been overtaken by  document WT/ACC/OMN/11
which gives a detailed time bound action plan for implementation of the TRIPS Agreement.
(c) Membership of international intellectual property conventions and regional or 
bilateral agreements
Question 86.
The response to question 63 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 indicates that a decision to join the
Paris and Berne Conventions has already been taken by the Government of Oman and thatadministrative steps in that direction are bein g taken.  Could Oman please provide a status
report of current efforts to join  the Paris and Berne Conventions?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 28
Reply:
A Royal Decree No. 63/98 was issued on 19 September 1998, whereby Oman has ratified its
accession to the Paris and Berne Conventions.
(d) Application of national and MFN treatment to foreign nationals
Question 87.Does Oman currently accord any preferential  treatment to any country in the area of
intellectual property?  Are all fees charged equally for equal work?
Reply:
Oman does not currently grant preferential treatment to any country in the area of intellectual
property.  Fees are charged equally for equal work.
2, Substantive Standards of Protection, including Procedures for the Acquisition and 
Maintenance of Intellectual Property Rights
(b) Trademarks, including service marks
Question 88.
Following up on the response to question 69 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9, under Oman’s
revised Trademark Law, what test will be used to determine that a well-known mark is being
infringed?  What is the timetable for implemen tation of the new Trademark Law?  Is the term
"relevant section of the public" defined in  either the current or the new Trademark Law?
Reply:
The draft Trade Mark Law is still in preparation in cooperation with WIPO.  The revised
Trade Mark Law will be promulgated by June 1999.  The term relevant section of the public is not
defined in the current Trade Mark Law.  The new law is not yet ready.
Question 89.
The response to question 70 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 states "a well-known mark is
refused registration if another party wanted to register the same mark in its name".  Can the
owner of a well-known mark stop the use of th at mark by an infringer during this interim
period?  What law would the owner of a well- known mark invoke in order to stop infringing
use?
Reply:
The owner of the well-known mark can stop the usage of such marks by the infringing person
during the interim period pursuant to Articles 31 to 34 of the Trade Marks Law.
Question 90.
Can the owner of the well-known mark stop infr inging goods from entering or leaving Oman?
If so, how does the owner do that?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 29
Reply:
The owner of the well known mark can prevent the entry of infringing goods if the mark is
registered in Oman, as in that case it will be enjoying protection under the Law.
(c) Geographical indications, including appellations of origin
Question 91.Please explain how Oman plans to protect ge ographic indications in the new Trademark Law.
Reply:
Geographical indications will be protected by inserting specific provisions in the revised
Trade Marks Law.  This issue is now under examination in consultation with the WIPO.
(e) Patents
Question 92.
Oman states in response to question 72 in document WT/ACC/OMN/9 that it will implement
TRIPS-consistent measures in the context of a GCC-wide effort, but gives no information on its
own efforts to move this process forward or to ensure that its own laws and regulations will be
read to enforce the GCC patent regulations upon accession to the WTO.  Please provide
information on affirmative steps that Oman pl ans to take to ensure that the GCC regime is
TRIPS-consistent and active efforts Oman has made to move the GCC process forward.
Reply:
The GCC patent regulations are now under examin ation, for their conformity with the TRIPS
Agreement, by the GCC Secretariat in consulta tion with the WTO and WIPO.  Consequently, the
GCC patent regulations may be suitably amended to  ensure their full conformity with the TRIPS
Agreement.  Once GCC Secretariat completes this task, Oman will adopt these regulations by anappropriate decree.
(g) Layout designs of integrated circuits.
Question 93.
In document WT/ACC/OMN/5, in response 307, Oman indicates that it does not have laws
protecting layout designs of integrated circuit s.  The response to question 64 in document
WT/ACC/OMN/9 states that work is underway to provide such protection for industrial designs
and geographic indications.  Please provide information regarding efforts underway for the
protection for layout designs of integrated circuits.
Reply:
As indicated in document WT/ACC/OMN/11, a law on layout-design of integrated circuits
will be promulgated by December 1999.  To that end, a draft law is under preparation in consultation
with the WIPO.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 30
4. Enforcement
(a) Civil judicial procedures and remedies
Question 94.
What public awareness or other educational campaigns for the general public does Oman plan
to implement?
Reply:
Oman is holding seminars on TRIPS with the assistance of WIPO.  Three seminars have
already been held.  Another seminar for all Arab countries will be held in Muscat in February 1999.
Also Omani officials have participated in numerous seminars on TRIPS.  Public awareness program
through the press and media is going on and will be intensified to ensure implementation of TRIPS.
(b) Provisional measures
Question 95.Do judicial authorities have the legal authority to impose provisional measures to prevent an
intellectual property infringement from occurring?  Please explain.
Reply:
In accordance with Article 15 of the Copyright Law promulgated by Royal Decree No. 47/96,
the Authority for the Settlement of Commercial Disputes (currently, the Commercial Court) may takea number of effective measures in the case of protecting the right of the author whose work is
published or displayed without a written authoriz ation from him or his successor.  Among such
measures is to stop the publication, display or production of such work as a temporary, precautionary
measure to be ordered by the Court pending the settlement of the disputable right.  Another temporary
measure is the attachment of the work and the income generated from the illegal publication ordisplay and appointment of an official receiver on the disputable work provided that the income from
the work is deposited into the treasury of the Court until the dispute is settled cordially or judicially.
At present judicial authorities do not have the legal authority to impose provisional measures
in cases of infringement of intellectual property.
(c) Any administrative procedures and remedies
Question 96.
Can intellectual property owners initiate complaints of intellectual property infringement
directly with judicial authorities?
Reply:
Yes, they can according to Articles 18 and 32 of the Trade Marks Law and Article 15 of the
Copyright Law.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 31
Question 97.
Please describe the procedures by which all enti ties responsible for intellectual property rights
enforcement exercise their authority and whether they comply with TRIPS Articles 41-49.
What remedies do these entities have the lega l authority to impose (ie. fines, injections)?
Reply:
The existing Trade Marks Law contains provisions for violations by providing that a person
shall be punishable with imprisonment for a period not exceeding three years and shall be liable to a
fine not exceeding RO 500 or one of the two pena lties.  With regard to copyright violations,
punishment of imprisonment for a period not exceeding two years and/or a fine not exceeding RO
2,000 is provided under the Copyright Law.
Having said that, it is stated that as indicated in document WT/ACC/OMN/11, amendments to
Civil and Criminal Codes and to the Customs Law, in line with Articles 41 to 61 of the TRIPSAgreement will be made.
(d) Any special boarder measures
Question 98.
Does customs have the legal authority to detail  and/or seize suspect goods at ports of entry?
Reply:
Yes Customs have the legal authority to detain and/or seize suspected goods at ports of entry.
Question 99.
Does customs or another competent authority have  the legal authority to suspend the release of
imported counterfeit trademark and pirated good, as required by TRIPS Section 4?
Reply:
Yes, Customs has the authority to suspend the release of imported counterfeit and pirated
goods.
Question 100.
Does Customs have the legal authority to confiscate and destroy infringing goods?
Reply:
Yes, Customs have the authority to confiscate and destroy infringing goods.
(e) Criminal procedures
Question 101.
What law enforcement agencies have or will have jurisdiction in the intellectual property area?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 32
Reply:
The question is under examination as to what law enforcement agencies should have the
jurisdiction in the intellectual property area.
Question 102.
What training does Oman anticipate providin g for law enforcement officers (ie., prosecutors,
judges, Customs officers, police etc.)?
Reply:
Oman will organize a series of training courses, seminars and workshops for law enforcement
officers to train them thoroughly in the TRI PS Agreement, the Omani laws, regulations and
procedures to implement the TRIPS Agreement and the details and techniques of enforcement.
Question 103.
What other entities (administrative or judicial ) receive and act on complaints of infringement
(patent, trademark, copyright office, national police, economic police, financial police agency,
other) the intellectual property area?  Please describe the scope of their authority.  Will Oman
establish separate enforcement offices, prosecutors and/or courts for intellectual property
enforcement?
Reply:
The Ministry concerned with the implementation of the Copyright Law is the Ministry of
Commerce and Industry in cooperation with other relevant Ministries such as the Ministry of the
National Heritage and Culture and the Ministry of Information.  These Ministries have specialized
departments that receive complaints in connection with infringement of intellectual property rights
and refer them to the police and then to penal courts to impose the penalties prescribed in Article 16of the aforementioned Copyright Law on  whoever infr inges such right.  Penalties for infringement of
copyright vary between imprisonment, fine and seizure of the imitated copies and the instruments
used in such infringement as well as the poss ibility of closing the involved establishment.
At the moment, we do not think that the matter needs the establishment of a police force or
courts specialized in intellectual property rights as administrative stringency in enforcing laws lessensdisputes.
Question 104.
What categories of intellectual property infringement are subject to criminal penalties?
Reply:
Infringement of trade marks and copyrights are subject to criminal penalties at present.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 33
Question 105.
Document WT/ACC/OMN/11 indicates that Oman intends to amend its Civil and Criminal
codes and the Customs Law, in line with Arti cles 41 to 61 of the TRIPS Agreement, but may
delay promulgation of these amendments to the end of year 2001.  We would appreciate more
information on why Oman believes that the en forcement provisions to amend the Civil and
Criminal codes must be delayed for two additional years after the substantive changes to the
intellectual property laws have been made.  In  addition, we are interested in knowing why
Oman believes that the officials and staff resp onsible for enforcing Oman’s intellectual property
laws will require two additional years for training.
Reply:
As indicated document WT/ACC/OMN/11, the Government of the Sultanate of Oman is
making a tremendous effort to enact relevant laws in different areas of intellectual property by the endof 1999.  Amendment to the Civil and Criminal Codes on the lines of Articles 41 to 61 of the TRIPS
Agreement is an extremely tedious, lengthy and time consuming process and it would not be possible
to do it earlier despite our earnest intention and best efforts.
Training the staff, and the law enforcement is also a long drawn effort.  Our intention is to
train them thoroughly so that enforcement is effective.  A half-hearted training will not yield the bestresults.  Training, which will start from a scratch, will include series of training courses, seminars and
workshops.  It will not be feasible to complete the programme earlier.
VI. TRADE-RELATED SERVICES REGIME
Question 106.
We appreciate Oman’s work to prepare and tabl e information on policy measures affecting
trade in services and responses to working part y members’ questions on services trade issues
(documents WT/ACC/OMN/8 and 9, respectively).  Both of these documents will prove helpful
as WTO Members continue to negotiate with Om an on the terms of its accession to the WTO.
Regarding the information contained in document OMN/8, we welcome the fact that Oman does
not maintain many sector-specific restrictions on  trade in services, but we are concerned about
the effect of the broad horizontal (cross-sectoral) restrictions, including foreign equity
limitations, foreign employment limitations and capital requirements.  We also are concerned
about restrictions in the telecom, audiovisual a nd some other sectors.  We look forward to any
additional information Oman can provide regarding liberalization of these and other sectors.
We also will continue discussion of these issues during bilateral negotiations.
Reply:
The statement is noted.  These are issues of negotiations which are already under discussion
in bilateral negotiations with Oman’s trading partners.  We welcome the opportunity to continue
discussions in bilateral negotiations.
Question 107.
What are the conditions that have to be met in  order to obtain a work permit?  Is the work
permit system administered in a manner consistent with GATS Articles 3 and 6?WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 34
Reply:
Companies, whether Omani, foreign or joint-ve nture companies, wishing to employ foreign
workers are required to apply to the Ministry of Social Affairs, Labour and Vocational Training to
obtain work permits.  The Ministry will issue the work permit if the company has made satisfactory
progress in employing Omani nationals and in achieving the required targets under the Omanizationprogramme (details of the Omanization programme, please see replies to questions 49 and 50 in
document WT/ACC/OMN/6).  The other conditions for issuance of a work permit are:
The foreign worker must have already obtained the Ministry’s provisional approval prior to
his entry into Oman.
The foreign worker must have entered Oman legally and in accordance with the conditions
stipulated in the Residency Regulations.
If the applicant company has not achieved satisfactory progress in Omanization, the work
permit will only be issued if Omanis with requisite qualifications are not available.
The foreign worker must have an employment contract with a company established in Oman,
either an Omani company or a company authorized under the Foreign Capital Investment Law.
The work permit shall have no effect on the rights and obligations under the Residency
Regulations.
The work permit system is administered in a manner consistent with Articles III and VI of the
GATS.
Question 108.
According to the Factual Summary, a securities li cence will be granted within two months upon
receipt of a "completed application" (page 30).  Could Oman describe what conditions have to
be met and what information should be provided in order to submit a complete application?
Are there any conditions that firm s have to meet other than thos e specified in the application
form, in order to be granted a licence?
Reply:
In order to obtain a securities license, the applicant has to fulfill the following conditions:
- the applicant should be a commercial company
- the company’s activity has to be confined to securities business
- capital of the company should be in the range specified by the Executive Statute (exact
range will be determined under regulations to be issued)
- the management of the company has to be competent and experienced
- none of the founders or members of board of directors has been within the previous five
years convicted of crimes, crimes specified in the Commercial Companies Act or havegone bankrupt.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 35
Question 109.
According to the second revision of the offer on the services sector, foreign lawyers can provide
"consulting work in home country law and international law" without establishing a joint-
venture company with an Omani partner.  In this relation:
- are there any conditions that a foreign lawy er should fulfill in order to be able to
provide "consulting work in home country law and international law"?  If so, please
describe the relevant details; and
- is it correct to understand that foreign lawyers can provide "consulting work in
home country law and international law" as an individual, by hiring an Omani
lawyer, or by establishing a partnership with an Omani lawyer?
Reply:
The second revision of the services offer does not provide that foreign lawyers can provide
consulting work in home country law and international law without establishing a joint venture
company with an Omani partner.  In fact, the horizontal limitations do apply to legal services.
A foreign lawyer can provide legal services only by establishing a joint-venture law company
with an Omani lawyer/s, in which the foreign partner cannot have more than 49 per cent share.  The
foreign lawyer is also required to obtain license for practicing law from the Minister of Justice.  Aforeign lawyer can perform all legal services relating to practice of home country law and
international law but he cannot appear in courts to plead cases.
No, a foreign lawyer cannot provide legal services as an individual by hiring Omani lawyers,
but he can do so by establishing a joint-venture with an Omani lawyer with the share of foreign
lawyer limited to 49 per cent.
VII. INSTITUTIONAL BASE FOR TRADE AND ECONOMIC RELATIONS WITH 
THIRD COUNTRIES
2. Economic Integration, Customs Union and Free Trade Area Agreements
Question 110.
The response to question 89 (document WT/ACC/OMN/9) states that Oman has recently joined
the Free Trade Area Agreement between Arab League members under which a free trade area
will come into existence within 10 years starting from 1 January 1998.  In this Agreement, each
member country has agreed to reduce its existing duties by 10 per cent each year so that by the
year 2007 the free trade area will be fully operational.  Did Oman reduce its tariffs by 10 per
cent on 1 January 1998 vis-à-vis imports from other Arab League FTA members?
Reply:
Yes, Oman did reduce its tariff by 10 per cent since the first of January 1998.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 36
Question 111.
We seek confirmation that Oman will observe the provisions of Article XXIV of the GATT 1994
and Article V of the GATS  in its trade agreement s, and will ensure that the provisions of these
WTO Agreements for notification, consultation  and other requirements concerning free trade
areas and customs unions of which Oman was a member were met from the date of accession.
Reply:
It is confirmed that Oman will observe the provisions of Article XXIV of GATT 1994 and
Article V of the GATS in its free trade areas and customs unions, and will ensure that the provisions
of these WTO Agreements for notification, consultation, and other requirements are met from the date
of accession.
Question 112.
The response to question 8 in document WT /ACC/OMN/9 stated that "in accordance with
Article 8 of the Unified Economic Agreement of GCC countries, GCC citizens are treated as
Omani citizens, as they have freedom of movement, work and residence and freedom of
undertaking economic activities.  However, this Article is being implemented in a progressive
manner".  Please give concrete and comprehensive examples of how the implementation of
Article 8 is "progressive".  What is the ti metable for this progressive implementation?
Reply:
During successive years, measures had been taken to treat GCC citizens as Omani citizens.
Some of the concrete and comprehensive examples of the progressive implementation of Article 8 of
the Unified Economic Agreement of GCC countries adopted by Oman are as follows:
(i) Ministry of Health – Ministerial Resolution No. 18/95 issued on 5 May 1995
allowing GCC citizens the freedom of undertaking economic activity in health
services.
(ii) Ministry of Education – Ministerial Resolution No. 24/96 issued on 11 February 1996
allowing GCC citizens the freedom of undertaking economic activity in educational
aspects.
(iii) Authority for Vocational Training – The Authority Resolution No. 313/96 issued on
21 July 1996 allowing GCC citizens freedom of undertaking economic activity in
establishing private vocational training institutes and centers.
(iv) Ministry of Social Affairs and Labor and Vocational Training – Ministerial
Resolution No. 99/96 issued on 29 September 1996 allowing GCC citizens freedom
of undertaking economic activity in establishing private children nurseries
(attachment No. 4).
(v) Ministry of National Economy – Ministerial Resolution No. 33/97 issued on 5 July
1997 allowing GCC citizens freedom of movement and employment in Oman
(attachment No. 5).WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 37
Question 113.
The response to question 9 in document WT/ACC/ OMN/9 stated that Oman would indicate how
the GCC is not a full-fledged free trade area in services, eg., which sector or other aspects are
not covered "after consulting the GCC General Secretariat".  We hope that during the last
year, Oman has had an opportunity to consult the GCC Secretariat.  We would appreciate ananswer to that question now.
Reply:
A full-fledged free trade area depends on the gradual and firm progress made by GCC to pass
different economic stages on its march to full economic integration.  GCC countries are actually
adopting and implementing some of the main characteristics of a Common Market, and efforts are on
the way to adopt more.
As regards the services sector the aspects which are not yet allowed include insurance,
transport (road, sea, and air), and agency activities.WT/ACC/OMN/14
Page 38
ATTACHMENTS
- List of Banned Items
- Code of Good Practice for the Preparat ion, Adoption and Application of Standards
- Statement by H.E. Maqbool Bin Ali Sult an, Minister of Commerce and Industry,
Sultanate of Oman, at the third meeting of the Working Party on accession to the WTO.
__________