Oman Digital & Standards: Oman rolled out the updated GCC Technical Regulation (GSO 2693:2026) for T-DAB+ terrestrial digital radio receivers, tightening performance rules for manufacturers, importers and retailers. Maritime Tech & Risk: With the Strait of Hormuz under pressure, nearly 1,500 ships trapped in the Gulf are becoming breeding grounds for invasive species as biofouling accelerates; at the same time, marine war-risk insurance premiums jumped sharply, raising costs for tanker operators. Energy Infrastructure: Gulf states are fast-tracking alternatives to Hormuz, including multiple pipeline projects to reroute crude via the Red Sea, Suez and the Gulf of Oman—though Yemen’s Houthi attacks on Saudi tankers add fresh disruption risk. Oman Shipping Response: Oman’s Ministry of Transport gave a 24-hour order to the owners of the stranded tanker Caroline Bezengi to remove it from rocks off the Hallaniyat Islands. Industry & Power: Cavotec’s order intake rose 11.3% in Q2 on shore power demand, even as profitability was hit by delivery mix effects. Oman Food Tech: Gulf Mushroom approved a 50% compost capacity expansion in Dhofar to support more stable mushroom production. Regional Tech Diplomacy: Oman and the Philippines plan a high-level forum in Manila focused on trade, tourism, technology, logistics and connectivity.