According to data from the Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology (MoTCIT), sports goods and accessories rank among the highest categories of online purchases in the Sultanate of Oman.
A recent report by Oxford Business Group reveals that in 2021, sports goods and accessories accounted for 66% of online purchases, followed by groceries at 57%, household goods at 40%, cosmetics and skincare products at 27%, and travel and accommodation services at 26%.
The current Omani e-commerce market is valued at approximately $600 million and is projected to reach $1.2 billion by 2029.
However, e-commerce currently represents only 1% of total retail sales in the country. Despite having one of the highest levels of smartphone usage in the Middle East, only 8% of the population engages in mobile shopping.
According to the Ministry’s data, current online shopping trends can be attributed to several factors, including a general preference for in-person shopping (72%), lack of interest (50%), lack of trust regarding guarantees and delivery (44%), security concerns about payment information (43%), lack of knowledge or skills (43%), and privacy concerns (43%).
In 2022, the Ministry of Commerce, Industry, and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) launched the National E-Commerce Strategy in collaboration with key public and private stakeholders.
At the first Omani E-Commerce Forum held earlier in May, the Under-Secretary for Commerce and Industry, Dr. Saleh bin Said Masan, stated that the strategy will focus on adopting a comprehensive approach to boost e-commerce in the country. He highlighted that the plan includes updating legislative frameworks, improving communications, enhancing transportation and logistics services, establishing an e-commerce complex, building national skills and capabilities, and intensifying awareness and guidance.
Source: Sports Goods Lead Online Purchases in Oman – Oman Observer
-
-
-
-
