JBS invests US$150 million to establish integrated meat production operations in Oman
The investment covers poultry, beef and lamb processing aimed at Middle East markets
OMAN – Global meat processor JBS has announced a US$150 million investment to expand its operations in the Middle East through new and existing production facilities in Oman, marking a significant step in its regional manufacturing strategy.
The company said it has acquired an 80% stake in a newly established food holding company in Oman, with local partner Oman Food Capital retaining the remaining 20% interest in the joint venture.
According to JBS, the investment will be used to produce poultry, beef and lamb at two sites in Oman, one of which already exists but has remained inactive for roughly a year.
Speaking to reporters, chief executive Gilberto Tomazoni said the move reflects the company’s intention to build a local supply chain in the Middle East rather than rely on imports alone.
Tomazoni added that JBS plans to raise chickens in Oman and source cattle and lamb from farmers in Oman and parts of North Africa.
Production timelines indicate that beef and lamb operations are expected to start within six months, while poultry processing is scheduled to begin within about a year.
Once fully operational, the two facilities are expected to reach a combined annual output of approximately 300,000 metric tonnes of meat products.
On a daily basis, the plants are projected to process around 1,000 cattle, 5,000 lambs and 600,000 chickens, according to figures released by the company.
The expansion comes as large Brazilian food producers continue to increase their presence in Middle Eastern markets, where food supply resilience has gained attention following disruptions during the COVID-19 pandemic.
JBS already operates meat processing facilities in Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, while rival BRF has been strengthening regional partnerships and preparing for a potential stock market listing in Riyadh.
The company also views the Oman investment as a way to spread production across additional regions at a time when global trade conditions remain uncertain.
Alongside the Oman announcement, JBS has recently highlighted broader regional ambitions through its brands’ participation at Gulfood 2026 in Dubai.
At the trade fair, JBS-owned Seara introduced a new visual identity and outlined its approach to competing in the Middle East frozen and processed food segments.
Seara is presenting redesigned packaging that maintains its traditional orange colour while adjusting layouts to improve consistency across retail formats.
The brand has also launched a regional marketing campaign under the slogan “Go Tastier,” featuring television personality Joelle Mardinian and aimed at household consumers.
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