Muscat – The International Seafood Company (SIMAK), a subsidiary of Fisheries Development Oman (FDO), is developing a large canning plant for Tuna, Sardine, and Mackerel in the Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD). This plant will boast the largest seafood processing capacity in the GCC region, according to an Oman News Agency report.

SIMAK, the sultanate’s flagship seafood cannery nestled within the Fisheries Zone of SEZAD, is poised to redefine the landscape of seafood processing and distribution in the Middle East region.

With an impressive processing inflow of 30,000 tonnes per year, SIMAK boasts a staggering estimated output of over 100mn cans annually, translating to more than 16,000 tonnes of premium-grade seafood products, according to the report.

With its huge processing and canning capacity, SIMAK is all set to mark a significant milestone in the region’s endeavor to provide value-added services to the burgeoning fishery sector.

The project encompasses cutting-edge facilities for processing, cold storage, and finished goods storage, ensuring optimal efficiency and quality control. This state-of-the-art canning facility will focus on processing Tuna, Sardine, and Mackerel, offering a compelling value proposition to stakeholders across the supply chain.

SIMAK presents a compelling value proposition, leveraging its access to both local and external sources for raw materials, cost advantages derived from proximity to local suppliers and burgeoning markets, and premium quality products at competitive prices, ensuring freshness and authenticity.

“SIMAK offers several commercial partnership opportunities viz white labeling for regional retailers and brands, catering to discerning consumers across the MENA region, the US, EU, and West African markets. By providing top-tier quality canned products, SIMAK aims to establish itself as the partner of choice for brands seeking excellence and reliability,” said Zakariya al Hasni, CEO of SIMAK in a statement to Oman News Agency.

Hasni said, “We are driven by a commitment to sustainability. SIMAK integrates business-led and environmental sustainability initiatives into its operations. From leveraging the latest technological advancements to promote efficiency and reduce waste, to implementing eco-friendly practices such as water conservation and solar energy utilization, SIMAK is dedicated to minimising its environmental footprint while maximising operational efficiency.”

He further said that SIMAK prioritises the development of the local economy by sourcing from SMEs and local fishermen, fostering employment opportunities, and investing in skill development initiatives.

In June 2022, International Seafood Company (SIMAK) had signed a construction contract with an Omani company for the construction of its seafood canning plant in Duqm. Designed to the highest international and food safety specifications, the plant will have a production capacity of 30,000 tonnes annually, subject to future expansion.

FDO is participating in the highly anticipated Gulfood Exhibition and Conference which is taking place from February 19 to February 23 in Dubai. FDO’s participation during this event will be spearheaded by SIMAK.

FDO, along with its subsidiary companies Blue Waters, Natural Shrimp Aquaculture Company (NSA), and Oriental Shrimp Aquaculture Company (ORA), will showcase a range of products, including White Pacific Shrimp and Seabream, demonstrating its dedication to quality and innovation.

With a strategic focus on market expansion, SIMAK is set to showcase its offerings at international platforms like Gulfood in Dubai, while simultaneously exploring opportunities for R&D and product innovation. The company’s relentless pursuit of excellence positions it as a trailblazer in the global seafood industry.