Overview
Investment in Oman’s fisheries sector totals OMR 500 million in aquaculture projects, reflecting both sovereign and private capital deployment. The sector’s GDP contribution of ~1% is targeted to reach 3%+ by 2040, requiring sustained capital inflows across the investment pipeline. Deal flow has accelerated since 2020 with Vision 2040 providing a clear policy framework for investor confidence.
Key Indicators
| Indicator | Current | 2040 Target |
|---|---|---|
| Total Investment | OMR 500 million in aquaculture projects | Growing |
| GDP Contribution | ~1% | 3%+ |
| Key Investors | Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, O… | Diversifying |
Analysis
The investment landscape for fisheries in Oman is shaped by a combination of government-led strategic investments and growing private sector participation. Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Oman Fisheries Co., Al Jazeera Seafood, Blue Waters represent the core investor base, with increasing interest from international institutional investors and sovereign wealth funds. The Oman Investment Authority (OIA) has prioritised the sector in its portfolio rebalancing strategy. Foreign direct investment is facilitated through free zones, tax incentives, and streamlined licensing processes. However, deal sizes remain modest compared to UAE and Saudi equivalents, suggesting room for growth.
Challenges
Capital mobilisation faces headwinds from overfishing pressure on traditional stocks, limited cold-chain and processing infrastructure, low value addition (70 percent sold fresh/unprocessed), climate change impacts on marine ecosystems, and competition from asian aquaculture imports.
Opportunities
Aquaculture mega-projects (shrimp, abalone, sea cucumber), fish processing and canning for export, marine biotech research, sustainable fishing certification (MSC), and integration with tourism (sport fishing, seafood gastronomy trails). Green and sustainable financing instruments (sukuk, green bonds) represent an emerging channel for sector investment.
Vision 2040 Targets
Raise fisheries GDP share to 3 percent; grow annual production to 600,000 tonnes (including aquaculture); establish 10 aquaculture zones; increase processed fish exports fivefold; maintain 95 percent Omanisation.