EN 
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Oman is set to strengthen its position as a regional hub for medical supplies with the upcoming launch of a state-of-the-art medical glove manufacturing facility in Sohar Freezone. The plant, expected to be commercially operational by Q2 2025, will be among the first operational entities within the Sohar Freezone medical cluster, aligning with Oman’s Vision 2040 for industrial diversification.
In an exclusive interview with Observer, Damith De Alwis, General Manager and Regional Head of Lalan Middle East, confirmed that construction is nearing completion, with all machinery and equipment already delivered to the site. “We will soon begin installation and commissioning work, ensuring that we remain on track for the planned launch,” he stated.
MEETING GLOBAL STANDARDS
Designed to meet the highest industry benchmarks, the facility will comply with ISO 13485 for medical devices, ISO 11135 for ETO sterilisation, ISO 9001 for quality management, and Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) requirements. De Alwis emphasised that achieving these standards required extensive collaboration with local regulatory bodies.
“From the outset, we have worked closely with Adawaa Al Wataniya Pharmaceutical Consultancy and Oman’s Ministry of Health to ensure that all processes align with global and industry regulations,” he said. “Additionally, we have sourced equipment from globally recognised suppliers, and an experienced third-party technical team will conduct on-site calibration.”
To further ensure operational excellence, key personnel from Sri Lanka—including a senior microbiologist, quality assurance, and compliance managers—will oversee the setup and training at the Suhar plant. “We have also brought on board a certified lead auditor and ETO sterilisation specialist with over 24 years of experience to maintain the highest industry standards,” De Alwis added.
STRENGTHENING MARKET REACH WITH STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS
The company has built a strong partnership with Muscat Pharmacy, a leading pharmaceutical distributor in Oman, to ensure its products reach the local market efficiently.
“Since our establishment in Oman in 2019, we’ve developed a collaborative and strategic relationship with Muscat Pharmacy, which has been instrumental in expanding our reach,” De Alwis explained. “Beyond Oman, we plan to leverage their extensive distribution network across the GCC, including markets like the UAE, Qatar, and Kuwait.”
INVESTING IN LOCAL TALENT
The facility’s commitment to Omanisation is reflected in its 45% local workforce target. To achieve this, the company has implemented structured training programs to integrate Omani professionals into its operations.
“We’ve identified qualified Omani candidates and designed an intensive orientation programme to equip them with industry expertise,” De Alwis stated. “Our Human Resources team will soon travel to Sri Lanka for specialised training before leading onboarding sessions in Suhar.”
This initiative aims to ensure that Omani recruits are well-prepared to meet global industry standards, enhancing the country’s skilled workforce in the medical manufacturing sector.
EXPANDING BEYOND OMAN
With growing demand for medical gloves across the Middle East and North Africa, the company is actively expanding its regional footprint.
“We already have a presence in the UAE and Türkiye, and we’ve recently set up a sales operation in Tunisia to strengthen our foothold in North Africa,” De Alwis revealed. “Guided by comprehensive market research, we are committed to broadening our product portfolio from Oman to meet evolving industry needs.”
SUPPORTING OMAN’S INDUSTRIAL VISION
The new facility aligns with Oman’s strategy to diversify its industrial sector and establish itself as a key player in medical manufacturing.
“Oman’s strategic location, coupled with its stringent regulatory framework, makes it an attractive destination for medical supply manufacturing,” De Alwis noted. “We have already gained interest from manufacturers in Yemen and Egypt and actively participated in investment-focused discussions, including the recent CPHI pharmaceutical expo in Riyadh.”
COMMITMENT TO SUSTAINABILITY
Sustainability is at the core of the company’s operations, with the Suhar facility set to be fully compliant with ISO 14001 Environmental Management System standards.
“We are pioneers in manufacturing the world’s first carbon-neutral glove, and sustainability is embedded in our core strategies,” De Alwis said. “Through initiatives like the Lalan Environmental Action Fund, we are committed to minimising our carbon footprint, supporting local communities, and promoting environmental conservation.”
As the company moves closer to launching full-scale operations, its focus on strategic partnerships, investment in local talent, and commitment to sustainability positions it as a key player in the region’s growing medical supply industry.