MOSCOW, Russia / RankWire.AI / – During the first seven months of 2026, trade between Russia and Oman surged by a factor of 22, reaching a total of $1.5 billion, according to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu. He announced 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 total marks the highest level recorded in the past decade. The information was reported by Interfax news agency.
Shoigu expressed optimism, 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 rise of more than 2,000% compared to the same period last year. Details about the discussions between the two security officials were not disclosed by Interfax. The meeting further underscores a year marked by frequent economic exchanges between Moscow and Muscat.
Back in April, Russian Economic Development Minister Maxim Reshetnikov mentioned that bilateral trade had quadrupled during the initial months of 2026. He also noted that Russian exports to Oman increased tenfold in the same timeframe. Overall, trade grew by 62.3% over the four years from 2020 to 2024. Russian investments in Oman’s energy, logistics, and food security initiatives have contributed to this growth. Additionally, private-sector collaborations are expanding through entities such as the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Roscongress, and the Oman-Russia Business Council.
Expanding Trade Includes Food and Energy Sectors
Currently, trade relations encompass more than hydrocarbons, extending into agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food. In 2025, Russia commenced its first large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman. Rising population and income levels in Oman have driven increased demand for meat, especially poultry. Domestic poultry consumption 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, with its agriculture sector projected to reach $2.86 billion by 2030. As a major global exporter of grain, poultry, and processed foods, Russia is well-positioned to meet Oman’s needs and supply farm machinery. Energy cooperation includes liquefied natural gas technologies, petrochemical supply chains, and oil-field equipment. Oman’s investments in green hydrogen could also attract Russian expertise in ammonia. In 2025, Oman’s total foreign trade was valued at 40.4 billion rials.
Russian Shipping Interests Grow in Omani Ports
Oman is increasingly 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 port connection between Russia and Oman as highly promising for this route, emphasizing Oman’s strategic location as a hub for reaching Middle Eastern and African markets. Over 30 ships previously registered to Russian companies, including Sovcomflot and FESCO, have re-flagged under Oman’s flag.
Moreover, Russian firms are establishing subsidiaries within Oman, attracted by simplified corporate regulations and special economic zones. Ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat provide competitive infrastructure options for traders. A visa-free travel agreement between Russia and Oman, implemented in July 2025, has further supported tourism and business exchanges. Oman’s ongoing reforms under Oman Vision 2040 have increased its appeal to foreign investors. Shoigu indicated that both nations could set new records in trade in the near future.