MUSCAT: Oman’s General Administration of Customs has introduced a new digital platform that allows importers and traders to calculate customs duties in advance. This service is designed to simplify the process of estimating tax liabilities before goods arrive at Omani ports. By providing a user-friendly online interface, the platform ensures that businesses can plan their imports with greater accuracy, reducing the risk of unexpected charges or delays. The initiative aligns with the government’s broader efforts to digitize trade-related services and enhance overall efficiency in the customs process.
The online service can be accessed either by scanning a barcode provided by the customs authorities or by visiting the official Oman Customs website. Once logged in, users can input details about their shipments, including product type, quantity, and declared value. The system then calculates the applicable customs duties and fees, presenting the results in a clear and concise format. This transparency helps businesses budget more effectively and avoid potential disputes with customs officials, streamlining both domestic and international trade operations.
Officials highlight that the platform not only benefits businesses but also improves the administrative efficiency of the customs authority itself. By automating calculations and reducing manual processing, customs officers can focus on more complex regulatory tasks and enforcement activities. The platform’s adoption is expected to cut down on paperwork, minimize human error, and accelerate clearance times for goods entering Oman. Moreover, the digital records generated by the system provide an auditable trail that enhances compliance and accountability in trade activities.
In addition to easing the customs calculation process, the service is part of Oman’s larger strategy to promote digital transformation in government services. The Ministry of Commerce and Industry emphasizes that integrating technology into trade facilitation measures strengthens Oman’s position as a competitive business hub in the region. By leveraging digital tools, the government aims to attract more investment, support small and medium enterprises, and ensure smoother logistics operations. Overall, this initiative represents a significant step toward modernizing trade infrastructure and creating a more transparent, efficient, and business-friendly environment.
