he Sultanate of Oman, through the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, celebrated Oman Agriculture Day on October 31 to highlight the crucial role of agriculture and forestry. Oman’s agricultural sector, covering agriculture, fisheries, and water resources, has become a central focus for food security and economic growth.
The Ministry’s 2023 report reveals Oman’s extensive resources, including 5.5 million acres of agricultural or reclaimable land, making up 7.5% of the nation’s land. Cultivated areas now span 293,000 acres, supported by 26 research centers and 18 agricultural quarantines.
In 2023, agricultural and fish imports reached approximately USD 3.36 billion, with exports at around USD 1.05 billion, marking growth rates of 11% and 14.4%, respectively. Key achievements include high self-sufficiency rates: 77% for vegetables and 97% for dates.
The Ministry’s Food Security Laboratories Programme, in collaboration with government, academic, and private sector partners, advances food production and modern tech initiatives, creating jobs and stabilizing prices. Additionally, the Palm Research Centre and Plant Protection Research Center focus on crop, seed, and pest research, helping to secure Oman’s agricultural resilience.
The Ministry also launched projects such as a pest management program to combat late blight in tomatoes, a desert locust control initiative, and regular inspections of farms and nurseries, enhancing both food security and agricultural sustainability in the region.
