MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu announced that trade between Russia and Oman expanded by a factor of 22 in the first seven months of 2026, totaling $1.5 billion. He provided these figures on Tuesday, October 20, during a meeting in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Shoigu highlighted that this was the highest total 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 an over 2,000% rise compared to the same period last year. Interfax did not provide additional details regarding the discussions between the two security officials. The meeting signifies a year marked by frequent economic interactions between Moscow and Muscat.
In April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov indicated that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the initial months of 2026. He also noted that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold within that timeframe. The trade volume had already grown by 62.3% over the four-year span from 2020 to 2024. Russian investments in Omani energy, logistics, and food security initiatives have contributed to this upward trend. Private-sector collaborations are expanding through the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Expansion into Food and Energy Sectors Strengthens Trade Relations
Trade relations now extend beyond hydrocarbons to include agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food. Russia began delivering its first large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman in 2025. Omani demand for meat is rising due to population growth and increasing incomes, with poultry being particularly preferred. Domestic poultry consumption in Oman is expected to reach 102,000 metric tonnes in 2026. Leading Russian producers are planning to expand their market presence.
Oman aims to achieve 70% food self-sufficiency, with its agriculture sector projected to reach $2.86 billion by 2030. Russia, a leading global exporter of grain, poultry, and processed foods, is well-positioned to meet this demand and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation between the countries involves liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Oman’s investments in green hydrogen could also attract Russian expertise in ammonia production. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Oman’s Ports Serve as a Key Hub for Russian Shipping
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 connection between Russia and Oman as highly promising for the route. He also highlighted Oman’s strategic location as a base 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 businesses are increasingly establishing subsidiaries in Oman, attracted by simplified corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat offer modern infrastructure for traders. Additionally, a visa-free agreement between the two nations took effect in July 2025, boosting tourism and business travel. Oman’s reforms under Oman Vision 2040 further enhance its appeal to foreign investors. Shoigu expressed optimism that both countries could set new trade records in the near future.