How India-Oman Trade Pact Opens Alternative Route To Gulf Beyond Hormuz

The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) commenced today, offering zero-duty access to a wide range of Indian exports to Oman. This agreement comes amid disruptions in the Strait of Hormuz due to the US-Iran conflict, with Oman's strategic location providing an alternative trade and energy gateway for India. Piyush Goyal, Union Commerce and Industry Minister, highlighted that this deal will boost exports, attract investments, and create jobs, while Ajay Srivastav, founder of Global Trade Research Initiative (GTRI), noted the agreement's significance in ensuring reliable trade even during geopolitical instability.