Solutions discussed for challenges to SMEs in Oman

Muscat: Seeking ways to develop small and medium enterprises (SMEs) and finding appropriate solutions to the challenges facing them were discussed at the 4th edition of Oman Forum 2016 yesterday under the patronage of Sheikh Salim bin Mustahail Al Ma’ashani, Adviser at the Diwan of Royal Court.
Talal bin Sulaiman Al Rahbi, Deputy Secretary General of the Supreme Council for Planning (SCP) talked about three key themes namely the 9th Five Year Plan, Tanfeedh, the national programme to promote economic diversification and small and medium enterprises (SMEs).
He pointed out that the 9th Five Year Plan focuses on 19 economic, social and environmental sectors. He affirmed that the five-year plans are not only economic ones, but they are comprehensive development plans covering several sector including health, education, youth and other development sectors.
Khalfan bin Salim Al Rahbi, Editor-in-Chief of Al-’Iktissad Wal-Aamal’ Magazine said that Oman Forum discussed during its first session challenges facing SMEs. He explained that the sector contributes in advanced countries about 55 per cent to the GDP as it is considered more productive for job opportunities, more capable to be cohesive and crisis tolerant.
Al Rahbi added that the second session will address possible solutions to find better environment for the Omani youth in light of the current status of labour sector, increasing number of expatriate workforce and lack of necessary skills among the youth, in addition to lack of innovative and solutions in dealing with youth interests and aspirations.