Fisheries Investment Forum in Oman: Unlocking Future Opportunities for Business Growth and Investment
MUSCAT: The Fisheries Investment Opportunities Forum, organized by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, began on Monday, emphasizing the increasing significance of aquaculture both globally and within Oman.
This two-day event is structured around three key themes: the global perspective of the aquaculture sector and its challenges, success stories from Oman, and investment opportunities available in the Sultanate.
The opening ceremony was graced by Eng. Ali bin Mohammed al Abri, Under-Secretary of the Ministry for Water Resources.
Attendance includes representatives from commercial aquaculture firms in Oman, potential investors, financing institutions, and experts from international organizations such as the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) and the World Aquaculture Society (WAS). Additionally, prominent academic institutions and various international specialists are contributing as speakers.
Day one features two discussion sessions. The first session, entitled "Global Context," explores the current state of aquaculture in Oman, along with an overview of global markets, challenges, and future visions for the sector. The second session, "Global Opportunities for Aquaculture Species," focuses on farming techniques for species such as salmon, shrimp, marine fish, mollusks, and others.
The second day will address governance topics, fundamental regulations, industry trends, and strategies to stimulate investment in aquaculture, with insights drawn from the Republic of Chile, recognized as a successful global model.
Discussions will also highlight promising opportunities aligned with Oman Vision 2040 and showcase financial services from Sohar International Bank alongside the success story of Musandam Aquaculture Company. Furthermore, the forum will present the latest equipment and technologies in aquaculture, including advancements in artificial intelligence.
Oman’s rich marine environment supports the farming of over 15 aquatic species, including white leg shrimp, giant tiger prawn, Omani abalone, European sea bass, Asian sea bass, Atlantic salmon, tuna, rock oyster, sand sea cucumber, and freshwater fish like tilapia and carp. This diversity enhances investment prospects and positions Oman as a promising regional hub for aquaculture.
The Ministry is committed to developing the sector by providing supportive services and facilitating sustainable growth, enhancing food security, and increasing aquaculture’s contribution to the national economy.
Special Analysis by Omanet | Navigate Oman’s Market
The Fisheries Investment Opportunities Forum underscores the potential for growth in Oman’s aquaculture sector, providing a rich landscape for businesses to capitalize on the country’s diverse marine resources. This presents both opportunities and challenges, as investors must navigate global market dynamics while leveraging Oman’s strategic positioning. Smart investors should now consider partnerships with established aquaculture firms and invest in innovative technologies, aligning their strategies with Oman Vision 2040 to maximize returns in this evolving market.