Oman progress toward food independence with 65.8% self-sufficiency in 2024
Animal and fish production continue to drive local food output
OMAN – Oman’s overall food self-sufficiency stood at 65.8 percent in 2024, according to data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI), showing gradual progress in domestic production across major food sectors.
The improvement was largely attributed to higher output in animal and fish production, both of which recorded some of the strongest results in recent years.
NCSI figures showed that animal products reached 87.3 percent self-sufficiency, reflecting stronger supply from local meat, poultry, and dairy operations compared to the previous year.
Fish production continued to exceed local demand, achieving 144.5 percent self-sufficiency, as Oman maintained steady exports alongside domestic consumption.
The country’s extensive coastline and growing investment in aquaculture facilities have supported this surplus, ensuring year-round fish availability.
In contrast, agriculture recorded more moderate progress, with self-sufficiency at 49.4 percent, as limited arable land and water constraints continued to affect expansion in crop farming.
Meanwhile, food and beverage manufacturing reached 66.4 percent self-sufficiency, backed by increased processing of locally produced meat, dairy, and seafood products.
The figures were presented at the Food Security Lab 2025 held in Muscat, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources under the patronage of Minister Saud bin Hamoud bin Ahmed al Habsi.
At the same time, separate ministry data showed that aquaculture production rose to 5,500 tonnes in 2024, with an estimated value of more than US$32.4 million, compared to 5,000 tonnes worth around US$29.8 million in 2023.
The announcement was made during the Fisheries Investment Opportunities Forum, which took place earlier this month in Muscat and focused on aquaculture as a core component of Oman’s food security plans.
Under-Secretary for Fisheries Resources, Eng Ali bin Mohammed al Abri, said the growth in aquaculture output reflects growing investor confidence in the country’s regulatory and resource environment.
He added that the sector is being treated as an essential part of Oman’s economic diversification efforts under the government’s long-term strategy.
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