MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu disclosed that trade between Russia and Oman surged 22-fold during the first seven months of 2026, reaching a total of $1.5 billion. He shared these statistics on Tuesday, October 20, during a meeting in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Shoigu noted that this figure represents the highest level recorded in the past decade. The information was reported by Interfax news agency.
“We have every opportunity to build on this positive momentum and reach new record levels in our bilateral trade,” Shoigu stated. A 22-fold increase translates to a rise of over 2,000% compared to the same period last year. Details of the discussions between the two security officials were not provided by Interfax. This meeting adds to a year marked by frequent economic exchanges between Moscow and Muscat.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov mentioned that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the initial months of 2026. He also highlighted that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold in the same timeframe. Between 2020 and 2024, trade grew by 62.3%. Russian investments in Omani projects related to energy, logistics, and food security have contributed to this trend. Private-sector collaborations are expanding through entities such as the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Food and energy sectors diversify the trade portfolio
Trade relations now extend beyond hydrocarbons to include agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food. Russia began its first significant shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman in 2025. Rising Omani demand for meat, driven by population growth and increased incomes, shows a preference for poultry. Domestic poultry consumption in Oman is expected to reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026. Major Russian producers are planning to 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. As a leading grain, poultry, and processed food exporter, Russia is well-positioned to meet this demand and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation encompasses liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Additionally, Oman’s investments in green hydrogen could attract Russian expertise in ammonia. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Russian shipping increasingly relies on Omani ports
Oman is viewed by Russia as a strategic southern gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor, which connects Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, the Gulf, and East Africa. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin described the port connections between Russia and Oman as highly promising for this route. He also highlighted Oman’s strategic position as a hub for accessing other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Over 30 ships previously registered to Russian companies, including Sovcomflot and FESCO, have re-flagged to Oman.
Russian companies are establishing subsidiaries in Oman, attracted by simplified corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat provide infrastructure conducive to trading activities. A visa-free travel agreement between the two nations, effective since July 2025, has supported tourism and business exchanges. Oman’s reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have further increased its attractiveness to foreign investors. Shoigu expressed optimism that both countries could achieve new trade milestones in the near future.