Scaling up solutions to avert food crisis
Based on Oman Vision 2040, Oman has made remarkable progress in developing its agricultural and fisheries sectors to ensure food security and sustainability
Published: 04:05 PM,May 05,2026 | EDITED : 08:05 PM,May 05,2026
Despite global food security reaching its most critical level in years - particularly due to wartime disruptions in the region that could trigger a new food crisis - the Sultanate of Oman is reinforcing its role as a leader in food security through a comprehensive strategic plan focused on sustainability and boosting local production.
Based on Oman Vision 2040, Oman has made remarkable progress in developing its agricultural and fisheries sectors to ensure food security and sustainability. This success is attributed to strategic planning, innovative technologies, and a strong commitment to long-term resilience.
This is evident from government data showing particularly strong performance in fisheries, achieving self-sufficiency levels that exceed domestic demand and exporting to approximately 60 international markets.
According to the data, the nation has achieved high levels of self-sufficiency in several key food commodities, including 146 per cent in fish, 99 per cent in dates, 96 per cent in fresh milk and 95 per cent in table eggs.
Self-sufficiency rates stand at 79 per cent for vegetables, 62 per cent for poultry meat, 45 per cent for red meat and 24 per cent for fruits.
Recently, coordinated by Invest Oman in collaboration with the Ministry of Commerce, Industry and Investment Promotion and the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, Oman has unveiled food security investment opportunities totalling over $243 million.
The investment initiative is part of a broader regional shift towards food security-driven agricultural expansion, particularly among Gulf economies aiming to strengthen domestic production capabilities amid climate pressures, global supply chain disruptions, and growing concerns over import dependency.
“The initiative reflects a shift toward attracting high-quality investments driven by advanced technologies and sustainable practices, while strengthening related industries and enhancing Oman’s position as a regional hub for food security and aquaculture,” the state-run Oman News Agency quoted officials as saying.
According to reports, the initiative aligns with broader international collaboration efforts, including the 2026-2030 Country Programming Framework established with the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations. This framework aims to promote the development of robust and sustainable agrifood systems throughout Oman.
“This initiative is part of Oman’s efforts to enhance food self-sufficiency, support resource sustainability, and increase the contribution of productive sectors to the national economy,” the news agency reported.
The initiative's strategy is reported to be based on several interrelated strategic priorities that align with the goals of Oman Vision 2040. Its primary focus is on implementing sustainable agriculture and fishing practices that can withstand climate change, utilising modern technologies and precision farming to protect and enhance local genetic resources.
The second priority focuses on enhancing the coordinated and efficient management of natural resources, with particular emphasis on the sustainability of land and water resources. The third priority centres on strengthening rural and coastal communities and improving their livelihoods by creating sustainable job opportunities, supporting small and medium enterprises (SMEs), and ensuring equitable access to markets and funding sources.
Finally, it strengthens these efforts by fostering a supportive and inclusive national policy and institutional framework, thereby improving coordination efficiency through multi-stakeholder platforms and enhancing national statistical systems and data quality.
As reported by the state news agency, the prospects are based on Oman’s competitive strengths, including rich agricultural land, abundant marine resources, a strategic geographic location, and well-developed infrastructure.
It is also supported by a regulatory framework that encourages investments ranging from mid-scale projects starting at approximately $4.2 million to major strategic ventures exceeding $83 million, providing a variety of entry points and partnership opportunities for investors.
Without a doubt, any observer would agree that, in a time of escalating climate threats and geopolitical conflicts, Oman’s cohesive and forward-thinking approach offers valuable insights for developing resilient and sustainable food systems.