MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of the Russian Security Council, announced that trade between Russia and Oman expanded by 22 times during the first seven months of 2026, totaling $1.5 billion. He disclosed these figures on Tuesday, October 20, at a Moscow meeting with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Shoigu highlighted that this figure marks the highest level recorded in the past decade. The information was reported by Interfax news agency.
Shoigu emphasized the potential for further growth, 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 regarding the discussions between the two security officials. This meeting is part of a broader pattern of frequent economic engagements between Moscow and Muscat throughout the year.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov noted that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the early months of 2026. He also reported that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold during the same timeframe. Over the four years from 2020 to 2024, trade had already grown by 62.3%. Russian investments in Omani sectors such as energy, logistics, and food security have supported this upward trend. Additionally, private-sector collaborations are expanding through entities like the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Food and Energy Sectors Drive Broader Trade Relations
Trade now encompasses areas beyond hydrocarbons, including agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food. Russia’s initial large-scale shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman commenced in 2025. Growing Omani demand for meat is driven by population increases and rising incomes, with poultry being particularly favored. Domestic poultry consumption in Oman is expected to reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026, with leading Russian producers planning to expand their market presence.
Oman aims for 70% food self-sufficiency, and its agriculture sector is projected to reach a value of $2.86 billion by 2030. Russia, recognized globally as a leading exporter of grain, poultry, and processed foods, is well-positioned to meet this demand, alongside offering farm machinery. The energy cooperation between the countries involves liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Oman’s investment in green hydrogen could also attract Russian expertise in ammonia. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Oman Ports Attract Russian Shipping Activity
Oman is viewed by Russia as a strategic southern gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor, linking 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 highlighted Oman’s strategic position as a hub for accessing other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Over 30 ships previously registered under Russian companies, including Sovcomflot and FESCO, have re-flagged to Oman.
Russian enterprises are establishing subsidiaries in Oman, motivated by simplified corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat offer competitive infrastructure for traders. A visa-free travel agreement between Russia and Oman, introduced in July 2025, has bolstered tourism and business exchanges. Oman’s reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have further increased its attractiveness to foreign investors. Shoigu expressed optimism that both nations could set new trade records in the near future.