MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – According to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, trade between Russia and Oman experienced a 22-fold increase during the initial seven months of 2026, reaching a total of $1.5 billion. He disclosed these figures on Tuesday, October 20, during a discussion in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Shoigu highlighted that this figure is the highest recorded in the past decade. The report was provided by Interfax news agency.
Shoigu expressed optimism about continuing this momentum, stating, “We have every opportunity to build on this positive momentum and reach new record levels in our bilateral trade.” The 22-fold increase signifies 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. The meeting adds to a year marked by frequent economic exchanges between Moscow and Muscat.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov reported that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the first months of 2026. He also noted that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold over the same timeframe. Between 2020 and 2024, trade grew by 62.3%. Russian investments in Omani energy, logistics, and food security initiatives have supported this upward trend. Additionally, private-sector ties are strengthening through entities such as the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Expansion into Food and Energy Sectors Broadens Trade Foundations
The trade relationship now extends beyond hydrocarbons to include agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food products. Russia began delivering its first large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman in 2025. Rising Omani demand for meat is driven by population growth and increasing incomes, with poultry being especially popular. It is projected that domestic poultry consumption in Oman will reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026. Leading Russian producers plan to increase their market presence.
Oman aims to achieve 70% food self-sufficiency, with its agricultural market expected to reach $2.86 billion by 2030. As a major global exporter of grain, poultry, and processed foods, Russia is positioned to meet this demand and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation includes liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Oman’s green hydrogen investments may also attract Russian expertise in ammonia. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Russian Shipping Interests Grow Through Omani Ports
Oman is viewed by Russia as a strategic southern gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor, connecting Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, the Gulf, and East Africa. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin described the port connection between Russia and Oman as highly promising for this route. He also emphasized Oman’s strategic location as a hub for accessing other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Over 30 ships previously registered under Russian companies, such as Sovcomflot and FESCO, have re-flagged to Oman.
Russian firms are establishing subsidiaries in Oman, attracted by relaxed corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports like Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat offer modern infrastructure for international traders. A visa-free regime between the two nations, introduced in July 2025, has facilitated tourism and business exchanges. Oman’s reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have further enhanced its appeal to foreign investors. Shoigu indicated that both nations could achieve new trade milestones in the future.