MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – Trade relations between Russia and Oman experienced a remarkable surge, increasing 22-fold in the first seven months of 2026 to reach a total of $1.5 billion, according to 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 amount represents the highest level recorded over 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 equates to a rise of more than 2,000% compared to the same period last year. Interfax did not provide additional details regarding the discussions between the two security officials. This meeting is part of a broader pattern of frequent economic interactions between Moscow and Muscat throughout the year.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov mentioned that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the initial months of 2026, with Russian exports to Oman increasing tenfold during the same timeframe. Over the four-year span from 2020 to 2024, trade had already expanded by 62.3%. The growth has been supported by Russian investments in Omani energy, logistics, and food security initiatives. Additionally, private-sector ties are strengthening through organizations such as the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Food and energy sectors expand the scope of trade
Currently, trade between Russia and Oman extends beyond hydrocarbons to include sectors such as agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food. Notably, Russia’s initial large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman commenced in 2025, driven by increased demand due to population growth and rising incomes, with poultry being particularly preferred. Domestic poultry consumption in Oman is forecasted to reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026, with leading Russian producers planning further expansion into the market.
Oman is aiming for 70% food self-sufficiency, with its agriculture sector projected to reach a value of $2.86 billion by 2030. As one of the world’s major exporters of grain, poultry, and processed foods, Russia is well-positioned to meet this demand and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation spans liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Oman’s investments in green hydrogen could also attract Russian expertise in ammonia. The country’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials in 2025.
Oman’s ports attract Russian maritime activity
Russia considers Oman 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 has characterized the port connection between Russia and Oman as highly promising for the route, emphasizing Oman’s strategic location 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 enterprises are also establishing subsidiaries in Oman, attracted by simplified corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat provide competitive infrastructure for traders. A visa-free travel agreement between the two nations came into effect in July 2025, facilitating tourism and business exchanges. Oman’s ongoing reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have further increased its attractiveness to foreign investors. Shoigu expressed optimism that both countries could set new trade records in the near future.