印度拓展与中东地区经贸关系

Core Insights - India has signed a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) with Oman, marking Oman as the second Middle Eastern country to enter such an agreement with India after the UAE [1] - The CEPA aims to enhance the price competitiveness of exports between India and Oman, positioning Oman as a strategic gateway for Indian businesses to access markets in the Gulf, Africa, and West Asia [1][2] Trade Aspects - Oman commits to zero tariff access for 98.08% of products from India, covering 99.38% of India's total exports to Oman, including sectors like gems, textiles, pharmaceuticals, and automobiles [1] - India will reduce tariffs on approximately 77.79% of Omani products, while maintaining protective measures on sensitive items such as dairy and gold [1] Investment Aspects - The CEPA further relaxes market entry restrictions, allowing Oman to open 127 sub-sectors to Indian investment, with service contractors' stay extended from 90 days to 2 years, and permitting 100% foreign direct investment in key service sectors [1] Strategic Importance - Despite a projected bilateral trade volume of only $10.61 billion for FY 2024-2025, Oman is India's fourth-largest energy supplier and is strategically located along the critical Strait of Hormuz [2] - The agreement is part of India's broader strategy to deepen economic ties with Middle Eastern countries, especially in light of rising tariffs from the US and uncertain trade negotiations [2] Historical Context - The CEPA with the UAE, signed in May 2022, has led to significant trade growth, with bilateral trade exceeding $100 billion in FY 2024-2025, marking a 19.6% increase year-on-year [3] - Non-oil trade between India and the UAE has surged, with a 20.5% increase in FY 2024 and a 33.9% increase in the first half of FY 2025 [3] Future Prospects - India is accelerating negotiations for a bilateral investment treaty with Saudi Arabia and has signed a new investment agreement with Israel, indicating a commitment to enhancing economic cooperation in the region [4] - The Middle East is viewed as a crucial area for India's economic corridor project linking India, the Middle East, and Europe, with increasing investments expected [4] Challenges - India faces challenges in its trade relations with Middle Eastern countries, including a trade deficit due to heavy reliance on energy imports, with exports to Saudi Arabia at approximately $12 billion against imports exceeding $30 billion [5] - Geopolitical instability in the Middle East poses risks to energy security and infrastructure projects, complicating India's strategic interests in the region [6]