Oman expects local as well as foreign investment up to $100 million in aquaculture projects in the country in the coming years, according to Dr Fuad Bin Jaafar Al Sajwani, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries.
Addressing a press conference on Monday, the minister said that the newly set guidelines for investment in aquaculture sector had opened the doors for individuals as well as corporate entities to take full advantage of huge potential in the sector along the long coast line of Oman.
“We are attracting more investments in aqua-farming by opening the doors to individuals and specialised companies interested in utilising the promising investment opportunities in this sector,” Al Sajwani said.
He further pointed out that the ministry had plans to support small fish farmers by preparing the facilities, fish population, fodder, technical services and marketing the products at the final stage. “The new aquaculture projects are expected to yield 220,000 tonnes of fish production by 2030,” he enthused.
The elected Shura member turned Minister hoped that the sector will contribute to direct state revenues by 342 million Omani riyals.
He also assured that the new aquaculture projects would generate job opportunities for Omanis. “We see 50 jobs for each one tonne produced by aqua farming and its associated activities,” he said.
Staff Report
Gulf News
Aug 09
Aquaculture project to attract investment in Oman
Gulf News
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