PALMOILMAGAZINE, KUALA LUMPUR — Oman’s food service and hospitality industry is experiencing robust growth, with the Hotel, Restaurant, and Catering (HORECA) sector emerging as a prime target for Malaysian palm oil exports. In light of this trend, Malaysian exporters are encouraged to adopt proactive strategies to secure a foothold in this promising market.
According to Palmoilmagazine.com, citing the Malaysian Palm Oil Council (MPOC) on Tuesday (1 July 2025), Muhammad Kharibi of MPOC emphasized that Oman’s HORECA sector is showing consistent growth, bolstered by the development of over 40 new hotels and a national goal of reaching 33,000 hotel rooms by the end of 2025. This growth presents a significant opportunity for Malaysian palm oil suppliers to expand their export footprint.
One of the key recommended strategies is to establish partnerships with Oman’s HORECA food distributors and suppliers, including major players in the industry. Participation in international trade exhibitions such as Gulfood, Saudi Food Show, as well as local events like HORECA Oman and Food & Hospitality Oman, is seen as essential to boost visibility and build strong business networks.
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MPOC plays a critical facilitating role in this effort. The council is committed to supporting Malaysian exporters by connecting them with key stakeholders in Oman’s food and hospitality industries and by opening doors to new business opportunities in this rapidly evolving market.
In addition to building networks, exporters are urged to focus on high-potential segments such as luxury hotels, quick-service restaurants, and institutional catering providers. Malaysian palm oil’s competitive edge—in terms of cost-efficiency, cooking performance, and sustainability—should be clearly communicated to industry players in Oman.
With the right approach, Malaysian suppliers could secure long-term supply contracts, especially as demand increases for premium, halal-certified products in Oman’s predominantly Muslim market.
Halal certification stands out as a major advantage for Malaysian exporters. With growing consumer awareness around Sharia-compliant products, Malaysia’s halal-certified palm oil offers assurance and peace of mind to buyers in Oman.
Aggressive promotional efforts are also essential. Market education campaigns could include cooking demos, chef training programs, and digital outreach highlighting the nutritional and technical benefits of Malaysian palm oil. Collaborations with culinary institutes and local foodservice associations could further cement its presence in Oman’s market.
MPOC reiterates its commitment to helping exporters navigate the Oman HORECA landscape—from facilitating introductions with key vegetable oil producers and distributors to providing market trend insights and helping develop sustainable distribution channels.
With a steady supply chain, product versatility, and a strong reputation for sustainability, Malaysian palm oil is well-positioned to become a preferred choice in Oman’s foodservice and hospitality industries.
“With a strategic approach and strong ecosystem support, Malaysian palm oil producers can seize major opportunities and establish a lasting presence in the Middle Eastern food and hospitality market, particularly in Oman,” Kharibi concluded. (P2)
