Q. Does the FTA mean my product enters the U.S. completely free of duty?

A. For most products, yes, but only if it qualifies as “originating” under the FTA's rules of origin. A product manufactured in Oman using significant non-U.S./non-Oman inputs may still owe duty if it doesn't meet the substantial transformation or 35% content test.

Q. Can a U.S. company own 100% of an Omani company without a local partner?

A. Yes. The FTA allows full foreign ownership for U.S. investors, without the local sponsor requirement that otherwise applies under Oman's general foreign investment law. Many companies still choose an Omani partner for market knowledge, even though it isn't required.

Q. Who actually claims the FTA preference, me or my U.S. customer?

A. The importer of record claims the preference with CBP, not the exporter or producer. In practice, that means your U.S. buyer submits the claim, but you, as the exporter, are typically the one who has to supply the origin documentation that supports it.

Q. Is there a minimum shipment value below which the origin rules don't apply?

A. No. Unlike some other U.S. FTAs, the U.S.–Oman FTA has no de minimis exemption. Even a small-value shipment must satisfy the origin rules to receive preferential treatment.

Q. How long do I need to keep my origin documentation?

A. Five years from the date of import. CBP can request the supporting records at any point within that window, not just at the moment the shipment clears customs.

Q. My product uses some imported components. Can it still qualify?

A. Often yes, but it depends on where those components come from and how much further processing happens in the U.S. or Oman. This is exactly the kind of question AmCham Oman's FTA Origin & Compliance Audit is designed to answer on a product-specific basis.

Why AmCham Oman: These questions come up constantly at AmCham Oman's Spotlight webinars and Export Training workshops, which is exactly why we built them. If your question isn't answered here, it's very likely one we've already helped another member work through.

STILL HAVE A QUESTION?

Send it to the Trade & Investment Department directly. If it's common enough, it may end up on this page.

Trade & Investment Department, AmCham Oman

Email: harshal@amcham.om 

Phone: +968 9418 9500

Hayy As Saruj, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. Part of the global AmCham network · U.S. Chamber of Commerce Affiliate