Overview
Food security is a strategic priority for Oman given the Sultanate’s arid climate, limited arable land, and dependence on food imports for a significant portion of domestic consumption. The national food security strategy combines supply diversification, strategic reserve management, domestic agricultural development, and investment in food technology to reduce vulnerability to global supply disruptions and price volatility. Recent global events have underscored the urgency of building resilient food systems.
Key Points
Strategic grain and staple food reserves are maintained at levels sufficient to cover several months of consumption. Domestic agriculture receives support through subsidised inputs, water-efficient irrigation technology, and protected cultivation systems. Fisheries and aquaculture development programmes leverage Oman’s extensive coastline to increase protein production. International agricultural investments in food-exporting countries diversify supply sources and hedge against regional disruptions.
Current Status
Self-sufficiency ratios for vegetables and fish have improved through targeted investment in greenhouses and aquaculture facilities. The strategic reserve management system has been digitised for real-time inventory monitoring. Agricultural research centres develop crop varieties suited to Oman’s climate and soil conditions. Food processing industries have expanded, adding value to domestic production and reducing reliance on imported finished products. Food waste reduction initiatives target efficiency gains across the supply chain.
Vision 2040 Context
Vision 2040 aims for a food-secure nation that balances self-sufficiency in key commodities with diversified international sourcing. Technology-driven agriculture, sustainable fishing practices, and innovation in food processing create a resilient food system. By investing in food security, Oman protects its population from external shocks and builds a productive agricultural sector that contributes to economic diversification.