Saturday 02 / May / 2026
Muscat: The aquaculture sector in the Sultanate of Oman is witnessing rapid growth, supported by expanding investments and rising production capacity, in line with national efforts to strengthen food security and diversify income sources under the blue economy framework.
According to data from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, total investments in existing aquaculture projects reached around OMR349 million by the end of 2025, reflecting growing investor confidence in the sector.
In addition, new investment agreements worth more than OMR 50 million have been signed, expected to add over 15,000 tons in annual production, particularly in shrimp and marine fish farming.
Fish farming production recorded steady growth, reaching about 9,240 tonnes by the end of 2025.
This included 7,970 tonnes from commercial aquaculture and 605 tons from integrated farming systems, indicating improved production efficiency and an expanding operational base.
Dr Abdul Aziz bin Said Al Marzouqi, Director General of Fisheries Resources Development at the Ministry, said the aquaculture sector is undergoing a qualitative transformation driven by investment expansion and improved productivity, enhancing its contribution to the national economy.
He explained that the sector is diversifying into shrimp, marine fish, oysters, abalone, seaweed, and algae farming, moving toward an integrated production system that supports sustainable growth.
He added that integrated aquaculture models, which combine fish farming with agricultural or aquatic systems, are helping improve resource efficiency and sustainability.
Dr. Al Marzouqi noted that Oman aims to increase aquaculture production to around 252,000 tonnes by 2030 as part of its long-term expansion strategy. -ONA
He affirmed that aquaculture is emerging as a promising sector with strong investment momentum, expected to become one of the key pillars of Oman’s national economy in the coming years.
