Iran and Oman have agreed to jointly study the costs associated with administering the Strait of Hormuz, a development that could pave the way for new transit fees for commercial vessels.
The two nations confirmed the arrangement in a joint statement following diplomatic talks in Muscat, marking a significant step in their coordination over the strategic waterway.
The proposal to introduce a toll system or service charges represents a material change to the status quo of one of the world’s most critical energy chokepoints.
Approximately one-fifth of global oil consumption passes through the strait daily, making any new cost structure or administrative friction a direct input into global energy pricing.
Markets are likely to view this as an escalation of geopolitical leverage, potentially driving up insurance premiums and freight rates for tankers transiting the corridor.
This development follows earlier reports that Iran was in discussions with Oman to establish a formal toll system.