Oman’s Aquaculture Sector Sees RO349mn Investments and Production Growth
📋 Key Takeaway: Oman’s aquaculture sector investments reached RO349mn by 2025, with fish production at 9,240 tonnes, highlighting growth in food security and economic diversification.
Significant Investments and Production Growth
Investments in Oman’s aquaculture sector have reached RO349 million by the end of 2025, with fish farming production increasing to 9,240 tonnes, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources. This growth underscores the sector’s role as a key component of the sultanate’s blue economy strategy and food security initiatives.
In 2025 alone, new investment agreements exceeding RO50 million were signed, which are projected to enhance annual production capacity by over 15,000 tonnes, particularly in shrimp and marine fish farming. The data reflects a steady increase in both production and operational capacity within the sector.
Diversification and Sustainability Efforts
Dr. Abdul Aziz bin Saeed Al Marzouqi, Director General of Fisheries Resources Development at the ministry, indicated that the aquaculture sector is experiencing a transformation fueled by rising investments and enhanced operational efficiency. He highlighted the diversification of production activities, which now includes shrimp, marine fish, oysters, abalone, as well as seaweed and algae.
These developments support the creation of an integrated production system, where integrated aquaculture models are being utilized to combine fish farming with agricultural or aquatic systems. This approach aims to optimize resource usage and promote sustainability within the industry.
Future Growth and Economic Impact
Oman has set an ambitious target to increase aquaculture production capacity to approximately 252,000 tonnes by 2030 as part of its broader expansion plans. Al Marzouqi emphasized that sustained investment and regulatory support will be critical in bolstering the sector’s contribution to the national economy in the years ahead.
The aquaculture industry has been recognized as a priority in the country’s efforts to diversify income sources beyond hydrocarbons. Authorities are actively working to attract both local and foreign investors while enhancing production capacity and increasing efficiency across farming operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the current investment in Oman’s aquaculture sector?
Investments in Oman’s aquaculture sector totalled RO349 million by the end of 2025.
What is the production capacity target for Oman’s aquaculture by 2030?
Oman aims to raise aquaculture production capacity to about 252,000 tonnes by 2030.
What types of products are included in Oman’s aquaculture diversification?
The sector now includes shrimp, marine fish, oysters, abalone, seaweed, and algae.
How much did new investment agreements amount to in 2025?
New investment agreements worth more than RO50 million were signed in 2025.
What role does aquaculture play in Oman’s economy?
Aquaculture is a key component of Oman’s strategy to diversify its economy beyond hydrocarbons.
