Muscat – Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) has signed two major agreements worth over RO51mn aimed at supporting the fisheries sector. These initiatives are part of the government’s ongoing efforts to diversify the economy and enhance the sector’s contribution to the GDP.

The first agreement, valued at approximately RO28mn, involves a contract with Khimji Ramdas Construction and Archimedes Marine Engineering and Contracting to develop a multi-purpose fishing port in Masirah. This comprehensive development is set to support the fisheries sector while promoting tourism and commercial activities.

Key features of the Masirah fishing port project will include 4,172m of breakwater, increased port basin depth by 5m, creation of 1,100m sandy beach, and installation of 13 floating berths. These upgrades are expected to improve facilities for fishermen, enhance maritime and logistical transport between Masirah and other wilayats, and promote economic diversification. The project will also provide essential amenities for visitors, including berths for Royal Oman Police.

According to Yaqoub bin Khalfan al Busaidi, Undersecretary for Fisheries in MAFWR, the agreement supports the government’s broader economic diversification plan. “Development of the port aligns with the goal of attracting investment, stimulating tourism, and creating a favourable environment for Omani fishermen, including facilities for fish landing, marketing and vessel maintenance.”

In 2023, Masirah produced 25,000 tonnes of fish valued at RO23.2mn. The island is home to around 2,345 fishermen, with approximately 804 fishing boats and 38 artisanal vessels.

White shrimp aquaculture

In the second agreement, the ministry signed a usufruct contact with National Phoenix Company  for a white shrimp farming project in Shinas, North Batinah.

Covering an area of 15 hectares, the project is an important step towards enhancing food security and diversifying income sources in line with Oman Vision 2040.

The white shrimp aquaculture venture, with expected annual production of 7,500 tonnes,

is set to become one of the largest fish farming projects in the country. With total investment of RO23.5mn, it aims to stimulate the local economy by creating direct job opportunities for Omani youth and supporting growth of the aquaculture sector.

Additionally, the Shinas project will facilitate transfer of advanced technology and expertise, further developing the skills of the workforce in North Batinah.