India, Oman to sign free trade agreement tomorrow in Muscat

What happened:

 On December 18, 2025, India and Oman are set to sign a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA) in Muscat in the presence of Prime Minister Narendra Modi. The agreement, concluded after negotiations that began in November 2023, aims to boost bilateral trade, services and investment. Commerce and Industry Minister Piyush Goyal is in Muscat for the signing.

Why it matters to India:

 CEPA will deepen India–Oman economic ties, expand market access for Indian exports, and strengthen cooperation in sectors such as energy, manufacturing, services and infrastructure. It also reinforces India’s growing trade engagement with the Gulf region, where Oman is a key partner.