MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – According to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu, trade exchanges between Russia and Oman surged 22 times in the first seven months of 2026, reaching a total of $1.5 billion. 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 emphasized that this figure marks the highest total in the past decade. The information was reported by Interfax news agency.
Shoigu expressed optimism about the future, stating, “We have every opportunity to build on this positive momentum and reach new record levels in our bilateral trade.” A 22-fold increase translates to a growth 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. The meeting highlights the ongoing trend of frequent economic engagements between Moscow and Muscat throughout the year.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov reported that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the initial months of 2026. He also noted that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold within the same timeframe. Over the four years from 2020 to 2024, trade volume had already expanded by 62.3%. Russian investments in Omani sectors such as energy, logistics, and food security have played a significant role in supporting this growth. Furthermore, private-sector collaborations are expanding via platforms like the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Expanding Trade Sectors Include Food and Energy
The scope of trade between the nations now encompasses more than just hydrocarbons, extending into agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food products. In 2025, Russia began its first large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman. The demand for meat in Oman is increasing due to population growth and rising income levels, with poultry being particularly preferred. Domestic poultry consumption in Oman is expected to reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026, prompting major Russian producers to plan market expansion efforts.
Oman aims for 70% self-sufficiency in food production, with its agriculture sector projected to reach a value of $2.86 billion by 2030. As a prominent exporter of grain, poultry, and processed foods, Russia is well-positioned to meet Oman’s needs and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation also covers liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Additionally, Oman’s investments in green hydrogen could attract Russian expertise in ammonia production. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Oman Ports Attract Russian Shipping and Investment
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 described the port connections between Russia and Oman as highly promising for the route, highlighting Oman’s strategic position for accessing other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Over 30 ships formerly registered to Russian companies, including Sovcomflot and FESCO, have re-flagged to Oman.
Russian firms are also establishing subsidiaries within Oman, attracted by streamlined corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat offer efficient infrastructure for trade activities. The implementation of a visa-free regime between the two nations in July 2025 has further supported tourism and business exchanges. Oman’s ongoing reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have increased its attractiveness for foreign investors. Shoigu expressed confidence that both countries could set new records in trade in the near future.