Dhofar: OQ Base Industries (OQBI) has financed 5 industrial projects in Dhofar Governorate as part of the Innovative Food Products Development Project, in cooperation with the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates – Madayn, represented by the Industrial Innovation Academy. The project aligns with the goals of ‘Oman Vision 2040’ in enhancing industrial innovation, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and increasing local value-added. It has benefited 5 small and medium enterprises from Dhofar Governorate, enhancing the opportunities for their products to successfully reach local and regional markets, and affirming the vital role of public-private partnerships in empowering entrepreneurs and promoting industrial innovation.

According to Oman News Agency, the project aims to support small and medium enterprises by developing innovative food products with added value, promoting industrial innovation and the quality of local food products, and preparing new products for entry into local and regional markets. A comprehensive package of technical, technological, and consultancy support is provided in Dhofar Laboratories. This includes evaluating existing products, improving recipes and manufacturing processes, implementing research and development plans, enhancing quality, conducting food safety tests, developing brand identity, and designing packaging. This enhances the products’ readiness for marketing and sustainability.

The project’s outputs included the development of four innovative food products, namely Frankincense Tea, Yogurt, Coconut Juice, and Frankincense Coffee, in addition to the Dhofar Laboratories service, which supports enterprises in improving their product quality and sustaining innovation, with a focus on delivering high-quality, value-added products capable of competing in local and regional markets.