Oman has taken a significant step toward enhancing its national health security with the inauguration of the Izz Pharmaceuticals factory in Nizwa Industrial City, Al Dakhiliyah Governorate. The facility was officially opened on Wednesday in a ceremony attended by Sultan bin Salim al Habsi, Minister of Finance, Dr. Hilal bin Ali al Sabti, Minister of Health, and other senior officials and stakeholders.
The new plant is part of Oman’s broader strategy to localize critical industries, reduce dependency on pharmaceutical imports, and strengthen supply chain resilience in line with the goals set forth in Oman Vision 2040. Equipped with advanced production technologies and rigorous quality control systems, the factory aims to meet international pharmaceutical standards while contributing to the country’s self-sufficiency in healthcare products.
Saif bin Khalfan al Hasani, Chief Executive Officer of Izz Pharmaceuticals, explained that the decision to locate the facility in Nizwa was both symbolic and strategic. Nizwa, a city known for its historical significance, is envisioned as a hub for industrial development beyond the nation’s primary urban centers. The CEO highlighted that the project was initiated in response to vulnerabilities exposed in global medical supply chains during the Covid-19 pandemic. He described pharmaceutical security as a national imperative and emphasized that the new factory supports balanced regional growth by generating high-quality employment opportunities and promoting inclusive economic development across Oman’s governorates.
Al Hasani also stressed commitment to maintaining stringent quality and safety standards, investing in technology, and developing human capital. He noted that the factory’s mission extends beyond production volumes to building trust in Omani pharmaceutical products and supporting national development objectives.
From a sectoral standpoint, Balqees bint Saud al Makhmari, Director of the Investment Empowerment Department at the Ministry of Health, underscored the rapid expansion of Oman’s pharmaceutical and medical industries. She reported that there are currently 20 operational factories producing over 2,000 medical products, with 18 additional facilities under construction. Al Makhmari pointed out that Omani pharmaceutical exports have grown, reaching more than 32 countries, positioning Oman as an emerging hub in global medical manufacturing and supply chains.
She further noted that these developments align with the country’s economic diversification goals. The Ministry of Health continues to facilitate investment through supportive regulatory frameworks, strengthened public-private partnerships, and policies encouraging industrial growth within the healthcare sector. Al Makhmari also emphasized the importance of enhancing centralized procurement systems, improving inventory management, and optimizing cost-efficiency to sustain healthcare services and maintain readiness under various conditions.
Overall, the inauguration of the Izz Pharmaceuticals factory represents a strategic advancement in Oman’s effort to fortify its health security and promote sustainable industrial development beyond its main urban centers.