Oman

Prospects for a bilateral Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the US have been reduced since the Saudi foreign minister criticised Gulf Co-operation Council (GCC) countries that engaged... 2005-01-12

We expect growth of 5.5% in 2004, falling to 4.8% in 2005, assuming a gradual decline in oil prices from next year. In addition, we expect the fiscal balance to move into a 2.8% deficit... 2004-11-12

BMI View: According to the Ministry of National Economy, nominal GDP expanded by 5.9% in Q104. Since consumer price inflation was marginally negative at -0.1%, real GDP was up 6.5%... 2004-09-06

Military co-operation with France is set to intensify, while the authorities will maintain good relations with British and US forces. French Defence Minister Michèle Alliot-Marie... 2004-05-12

Key multinational Shell has revealed its 2000 assessment overstated proven reserves by 40%. BMI View: Reduced reserves estimates reflect a growing concern that the technique of horizontal... 2004-05-10

Ongoing oil market bullishness has led us to upwardly revise our GDP growth forecasts to 5% this year and 4.8% in 2005. Growing natural gas production and expansionary government... 2004-03-24

Sultan Qaboos has appointed the government's first female minister, Rawya bint Saud al-Bousaidi, the new Minister for Higher Education, in a a positive signal for women's rights.... 2004-03-17

While declining prices and output will hit oil revenues in 2004, an upturn in production and a growing liquefied natural gas (LNG) sector will lead to some recovery by 2005. Expansionary... 2004-01-27

Although declining oil output is expected to continue in 2004, the government has increased its projected spending and deficit in this year's budget. BMI View: The actual deficit... 2004-01-20

While diplomatic relations between Muscat and Islamabad are generally good, the Pakistani Foreign Office has said it will investigate allegations that some of its citizens have been... 2004-01-20