Muscat – As Oman advances reforms to strengthen its social protection framework, lawmakers and industry representatives are calling for retirement and insurance coverage for thousands of artisanal fishermen.

They argue that extending benefits to fishermen would enhance financial security, support food security objectives and sustain one of the country’s oldest professions.

Speaking before Majlis A’Shura, H E Dr Saud bin Hamoud al Habsi, Minister of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, said the number of fishermen in Oman is about 60,000, including artisanal and recreational fishers. He confirmed that discussions are under way with the Ministry of Labour to provide appropriate social protection and develop sustainable solutions for workers in the sector.

Juma al Wahaibi, Majlis A’Shura member from Quriyat, said fishermen contribute nearly 5% to economic activity linked to around 12 sectors. “Any disruption in fishing operations directly affects those industries,” he said, urging inclusion of fishermen under the Social Protection Fund to ensure stability after retirement.

Analysts say integrating fishermen into the national social protection system would strengthen economic and social stability, particularly given the seasonal nature of fishing and income fluctuations driven by weather conditions.

Ahmed Abdullah al Balushi, Chairman of the Omani Fishermen Association, said progress has been made over the past four years in coordination with the Ministry of Labour and other authorities to prepare a proposal supporting artisanal fishermen. He said meetings with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources and the Social Protection Fund have helped shape a framework that includes social insurance coverage and targeted support for full-time fishermen.

Khalid Al Hosni, Head of the Learning Resources and Media Department at Al Khaboura Vocational College, said establishing a retirement system for fishermen is both a social and economic necessity.

“The fishing profession plays a fundamental role in the national economy,” he said, noting its contribution to food security, employment and local production. He added that the sector provides income for thousands of citizens and forms part of Oman’s economic and social identity.

Al Hosni said support should extend beyond equipment and vessels to include long-term financial security. Fishermen face occupational risks, physical strain and changing weather patterns, he said, adding that many experience health and professional challenges as they age.

“The introduction of a pension scheme or social safety net is essential to guarantee a dignified standard of living after years of service at sea,” he said.

He added that retirement benefits would provide stability for fishermen and their families and could encourage younger Omanis to enter the sector, supporting its sustainability in line with Oman Vision 2040.