Aquaculture production in the Sultanate of Oman recorded strong growth in 2025, reaching approximately 9240 tonnes, representing a 67.7 percent increase compared with 2024. The total value of production exceeded RO 20.3 million, reflecting a 63.7 percent rise in value compared with the previous year.
Dr Issa Mohammed Al Farsi, Director of the Aquaculture Development Department at the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, said that the most produced species in Oman’s aquaculture sector are whiteleg shrimp and European seabream, followed by tilapia, Omani abalone and rock oysters.
The Ministry is adopting a comprehensive vision to develop a competitive and sustainable aquaculture sector that aligns with Oman’s environmental, social, economic and historical values. The strategy is built around four key pillars: high international quality, environmental sustainability and responsibility, participation from local communities and strengthening national food security. These priorities also align with Oman Vision 2040, which aims to diversify national income and increase the contribution of non-oil sectors to GDP.
Al Farsi further explained that the Ministry places particular emphasis on supporting entrepreneurs interested in ‘integrated aquaculture’, which combines fish farming with plant cultivation to optimise water use and reduce emissions. Support includes flexible financing packages through the Development Bank and other institutions covering up to 80 percent of project costs, alongside a clear legislative framework and innovation platforms such as ‘Suggest Your Project’ designed to empower young people and encourage entrepreneurship.
He added that, internationally, Omani aquaculture products are targeting major markets including the European Union, the People’s Republic of China, the Republic of Korea and the Russian Federation, as well as GCC and other Arab markets. Compliance with international standards is ensured through the application of the Best Aquaculture Practices (BAP) system and ongoing laboratory testing by the Food Safety and Quality Center.
In addition, Al Farsi noted that construction began in February on a major whiteleg shrimp project in the Wilayat of Shinas in North Al Batinah Governorate, with an investment of RO 23.5 million across 15 hectares. Annual production from the site is expected to reach 7500 tonnes once operational, making it one of the largest aquaculture projects in Oman.
