The Bahwan name made its debut in Oman's commercial life in 1965 with a shop named Suhail & Saud Bahwan, established by the two brothers in the Muttrah 'Souk'. Initial trading comprised building materials and fishing nets. Following the sea faring traditions of his ancestors, Suhail Bahwan had his initial trading experience aboard the vessels that plied the routs to Western India and the Upper Gulf from his native village Sur, an eastern seaport of Oman. Soon he turned his attention towards securing agencies of internationally reputed brands. Initial success was in 1968/69 with Toshiba and Seiko.