MUSCAT: Aquaculture production in the Sultanate of Oman is projected to reach around 9,240 tonnes in 2025, marking a 67.7 per cent increase compared with 2024, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources.
The total value of production is expected to exceed RO 20.3 million, reflecting a 63.7 per cent rise year-on-year as the sector expands in line with national food security and economic diversification goals.
Dr Issa bin Mohammed al Farsi, Director of the Aquaculture Development Department at the ministry, said the main farmed species in Oman include white-legged shrimp and European cobia, followed by tilapia, Omani abalone and rock oysters.
He noted that the ministry has adopted a comprehensive strategy to develop a competitive and sustainable aquaculture sector aligned with the environmental, social and economic priorities of the Sultanate of Oman. The strategy is built on four key pillars: adherence to high international quality standards, sustainability and environmental responsibility, engagement with local communities and strengthening national food security.
These efforts support the objectives of Oman Vision 2040, which aims to diversify income sources and expand the contribution of non-oil sectors to the national economy.
Al Farsi added that the ministry is also encouraging entrepreneurship in integrated aquaculture systems that combine fish farming with crop cultivation, helping to conserve water resources and reduce environmental emissions.
To support investors and young entrepreneurs, financing packages covering up to 80 per cent of project costs are available through the Development Bank and other supporting institutions. In addition, innovation initiatives such as the “Propose Your Project” platform have been launched to help entrepreneurs develop viable aquaculture ventures.
Omani farmed fish products are increasingly targeting major international markets, including the European Union, China, Korea and Russia, alongside Gulf and Arab markets.
The ministry said strict quality standards are maintained through the application of the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) certification system and regular laboratory testing conducted by the Food Quality and Safety Centre to ensure product safety and compliance with global requirements.
Meanwhile, construction began in February on a major white-legged shrimp farming project in the Wilayat of Shinas in Al Batinah North Governorate. The RO 23.5 million project, spread across 15 hectares, is expected to produce around 7,500 tonnes annually once operational, making it one of the largest aquaculture developments in the Sultanate of Oman. — ONA
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