India-Oman CEPA Comes Into Force from June 1

The India-Oman Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) comes into force from 1 June 2026. The agreement gives India duty-free access to the Omani market for 98.08% of tariff lines, covering 99.38% of trade value on the basis of 2022-23 averages.

India-Oman Trade Framework

CEPA is a type of free trade agreement that covers goods, services, investment, and trade facilitation. India and Oman have maintained bilateral trade links through energy, fertilisers, metals, textiles, and food products.

Market Access and Tariff Coverage

Under the agreement, Indian exports such as textiles, agriculture, processed food, gems and jewellery, transport equipment, pharmaceuticals, medical devices, and precision instruments receive immediate zero-duty access in Oman. Oman receives duty concessions in India through 77.79% of India’s total tariff lines, covering 94.81% of India’s imports from Oman by value.

Mobility and Trade Facilitation Provisions

The agreement includes mobility commitments for Indian professionals. Oman raises the ceiling for intra-corporate transferees from 20% to 50% and provides easier temporary entry for business visitors and independent professionals. Preferential Certificates of Origin for exports to Oman are issued from 1 June 2026 through the Trade Connect ePlatform.

Important Facts for Exams

• CEPA stands for Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement.
• India and Oman are members of the Gulf Cooperation Council trade environment through Oman’s regional location in West Asia.
• India has implemented FTAs with Mauritius, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and the European Free Trade Association since 2014.
• Bilateral trade between India and Oman reached USD 11.18 billion in 2025-26.

India’s Recent FTA Record

This is the fifth free trade agreement implemented under the Modi government since 2014. The earlier agreements were signed with Mauritius, the United Arab Emirates, Australia, and the European Free Trade Association.