Oman has launched the Sustainable Agriculture and Rural Development Strategy 2040 to enhance agricultural productivity and sustainability. The Sultanate is driving forward food security initiatives through collaborations with government agencies and the private sector, reinforcing supply chains and promoting sustainability.
These initiatives, led by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, reflect Oman’s commitment to long-term food security and economic diversification, aligning with the nation’s broader development goals.
Recognizing the growing challenges posed by climate change, Oman has prioritized food security, implementing strategies such as the Food Security Strategy 2010-2020. This plan focuses on managing demand, boosting local production, and ensuring reliable imports. In 2021, Oman further introduced the National Nutrition Strategy 2020-2030, aligning with Oman Vision 2040.
To bolster agricultural output, Oman initiated the Million Date Palm Plantation Project. Additionally, the Sultanate is advancing industrial food production, exemplified by the country’s first sugar refinery at Sohar Port. Spanning 18,000 square meters with an annual capacity of 1 million tonnes, the refinery incorporates advanced European technology to produce refined sugar from raw imports.
The project is nearing completion, with 91% of construction finalized. Director General of Food Security, Salem bin Abdullah Al-Ghufaili, highlighted that the refinery will meet both local and international demand.
In parallel, Salalah Mills Co. is developing a Food Industries Center in Khazaen Economic City, valued at 18.5 million Omani rials ($48.08 million). This facility, in its first phase, will produce 1.4 million units daily and house an industrial bakery, frozen and semi-cooked pastry production lines, and storage facilities for raw materials and finished products.
Oman is also expanding wheat silo capacity at Sohar Port to 160,000 tonnes, further strengthening its food storage and supply capabilities.
