Strait of Hormuz Rules Tighten: Iran has introduced a permit-and-registration system for ships transiting the Strait of Hormuz, requiring requests 48 hours ahead, insurance details and use of a northern route—while hinting that “insurance fees” and other charges could follow after a 60-day free period. Shipping Cautious, Mines Still a Factor: Even as traffic starts to climb after the US-Iran MoU, UKMTO cut its threat level to “moderate” but warned mines and naval presence remain; major shipping groups say normal levels won’t return until mines are cleared and transit rules are fully coordinated. Oman Industry Push: Oman’s salt sector is targeting major expansion with over $1bn in investments to scale high-purity and food-grade output and move into value-added chemicals. Digital Trade Facilitation: The Oman Business Platform is adding self-service features for commercial transactions, including ownership transfers and merger options, as investor use shifts further online. Duqm Waterfront Plan: OPAZ unveiled a 31 sq km Duqm waterfront master plan to grow tourism and investment, targeting thousands of hotel and residential units by 2040. Green Hydrogen Deal: ACME Group will invest about $4.2bn in Duqm green hydrogen and green ammonia phases 2 and 3, boosting large-scale clean energy production. Defense Tech Interest: BAE says global Eurofighter users—including Oman—show strong interest in integrating the APKWS “drone killer” capability after RAF Typhoon success.