Overview
Oman’s fisheries sector contributes approximately 1 percent of GDP with an annual catch of around 290,000 tonnes. The 3,165 km coastline supports both artisanal and commercial fishing, with key species including yellowfin tuna, sardines, cuttlefish, and lobster. Vision 2040 aims to triple the sector’s GDP contribution through aquaculture expansion, value-added processing, and sustainable fisheries management.
The value chain for Oman’s fisheries sector encompasses upstream inputs, midstream processing and logistics, and downstream distribution and export channels. Mapping this chain reveals critical nodes where value addition can be maximised and leakage to imports can be reduced.
Key Indicators
| Indicator | Current | 2040 Target |
|---|---|---|
| Annual Catch | ~290,000 tonnes | 600,000 tonnes by 2040 |
| GDP Contribution | ~1% | 3%+ by 2040 |
| Aquaculture Output | ~5,000 tonnes | 200,000 tonnes by 2040 |
| Omanisation Rate | ~95% | 95% maintained |
| Processing Ratio | ~30% | 70%+ by 2040 |
Analysis
The fisheries value chain in Oman is characterised by significant upstream concentration, with Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Oman Fisheries Co., Al Jazeera Seafood, Blue Waters dominating primary production. Midstream processing and logistics represent the largest opportunity for value capture, as much of the raw output is currently exported with minimal transformation. Investment of OMR 500 million in aquaculture projects signals strong commitment to building out downstream capacity. The sector employs ~55,000 (mostly artisanal) workers, though value-chain deepening could multiply employment effects significantly.
Challenges
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).
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.