Online Sellers Must Obtain License First Starting March 24th

The Omani Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion (MoCIIP) said that online sellers and promoters of products and services via social media should obtain a license from the ministry first.

This decision -- which aims to monitor the marketing of all products on websites and social media -- will be effective starting Friday, March 24th.

"This is to protect merchants and consumers, provide the necessary safeguards for e-commerce transactions and preserve the rights of dealers," the ministry said.

The decision excludes individuals engaged in non-profit activities, like charity and volunteering services, as well as merchants promoting their own products.

Violators will receive an administrative fine of RO1,000.