Muscat – Muscat will host a major regional gathering of the aquaculture and fisheries sector – IORA Aquacult-ure and Fisheries Business Forum and Exhibition – from April 13-15.

Organised by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, in collaboration with the Secretariat of the Indian Ocean Rim Association (IORA) and the IORA Fisheries Support Unit, the event will take place at Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre. It is expected to draw wide participation from public and private sector entities, as well as regional and international organisations involved in fisheries, aquaculture, seafood production and allied industries.

The forum and exhibition will serve as a strategic platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange and business development, with strong focus on sustainable fisheries, food security and investment opportunities across the Indian Ocean region. Participants will have the opportunity to engage with policymakers, investors and industry leaders, while exploring the latest technologies, equipment and innovations shaping the future of aquaculture and fisheries.

The event aims to promote the sustainable and responsible development of the aquaculture and fisheries sectors by fostering regional cooperation, sharing knowledge and best practices, addressing key challenges and strategic priorities, and exploring business opportunities among the private sector. These include initiatives to strengthen resource management, combat illegal, unreported and unregulated fishing, promote safe seafood trade, and build capacity across IORA member states, a statement said.

The accompanying exhibition will showcase a broad range of sectors, including aquaculture, fisheries, seafood processing, logistics and fishing ports, underscoring Oman’s growing role as a regional hub for marine resources and blue economy initiatives. It will also provide a platform for entrepreneurs to present new projects and for companies to explore partnerships, trade agreements and joint ventures.

According to the organisers, the event aligns with Oman’s nat-ional efforts to enhance food sec-urity, support economic divers- ification and promote the sustainable use of marine resources. Companies operating in fisheries, seafood retail and wholesale, logistics, import and export, marine veterinary services and food security are encouraged to participate, the ministry stated.

‘The IORA forum is expected to strengthen regional cooperation and further reinforce Oman’s position as a key player in advancing sustainable fisheries and aquaculture development in the Indian Ocean region.’