MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – In the first seven months of 2026, commerce between Russia and Oman experienced a remarkable increase, expanding 22-fold to reach $1.5 billion, as announced by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu. He disclosed these figures on Tuesday, October 20, during a meeting held in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Shoigu highlighted that this total marks the highest level recorded in the past decade. The information was reported by Interfax news agency.
Shoigu emphasized, “We have every opportunity to build on this positive momentum and reach new record levels in our bilateral trade.” A 22-fold increase equates to a rise of over 2,000% compared to the same period last year. Interfax did not provide additional details about the discussions between the two security officials. This meeting contributes to a year marked by frequent economic exchanges between Moscow and Muscat.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov stated that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the initial months of 2026. He also noted that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold in the same timeframe. Over the four years from 2020 to 2024, trade had already grown by 62.3%. Investments from Russia in Omani energy, logistics, and food security initiatives have supported this upward trend. Moreover, private-sector engagement continues to expand through entities such as the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Expansion into Food and Energy Sectors Strengthens Trade Relations
The scope of commerce now surpasses hydrocarbons, encompassing agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food. Russia’s initial large-scale shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman commenced in 2025. Omani consumers are increasingly demanding meat, driven by population growth and rising incomes, with poultry being particularly favored. Domestic poultry consumption in Oman is expected to reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026. Leading Russian producers intend to further expand their presence in this market.
Oman aims for 70% food self-sufficiency, with its agriculture sector projected to reach $2.86 billion by 2030. Russia, recognized globally as a top exporter of grain, poultry, and processed foods, is well-positioned to meet this demand and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation involves liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Additionally, Oman’s investment in green hydrogen could attract Russian expertise in ammonia production. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Russian Shipping Benefits from Oman’s Strategic Ports
Oman is considered a crucial southern gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor, which links Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, the Gulf, and East Africa. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has described the connection between Russian and Omani ports as highly promising for this route. He also pointed out Oman’s strategic location as an ideal base for accessing other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Over 30 ships previously registered with Russian companies, including Sovcomflot and FESCO, have re-flagged to Oman.
Furthermore, Russian firms are establishing subsidiaries in Oman, attracted by simplified corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat offer competitive infrastructure for traders. The introduction of a visa-free regime between the two nations in July 2025 has bolstered tourism and commercial travel. Oman’s reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have increased its attractiveness for foreign investors. Shoigu expressed optimism that both countries could set new trade records in the near future.