Oman has reaffirmed its opposition to imposing mandatory transit fees on vessels navigating the strategically vital Strait of Hormuz. Foreign Minister Badr bin Hamad Albusaidi stated that Muscat supports maintaining free passage while remaining open to voluntary contributions for maritime, environmental, and navigational services that enhance regional shipping safety.
Speaking to French broadcaster Monte Carlo Doualiya, Albusaidi explained that any financial arrangements should be discussed cooperatively with beneficiary countries and shipping companies rather than enforced as obligatory tolls. Potential services could include improving navigational security, protecting marine ecosystems from pollution, and strengthening emergency response capabilities for accidents or maritime incidents.
The Omani minister also highlighted existing international frameworks, citing the Straits of Malacca and Singapore as examples where collaborative mechanisms support safe and efficient maritime operations without imposing unilateral transit charges. His remarks come as global attention remains focused on the Strait of Hormuz, one of the world’s most important energy and trade corridors through which a significant share of international oil shipments passes.
