MOSCOW, Russia / EuroWire.IO / – Russia’s trade with Oman has hit its highest point in ten years, according to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu on October 20. In the first seven months of 2026, bilateral trade increased 22 times, totaling $1.5 billion. Shoigu shared these figures during discussions in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, who leads Oman’s National Security Council as Secretary General. The current trade volume already surpasses the $1 billion goal both countries set for 2027.
Shoigu expressed confidence that Russia and Oman possess all the necessary resources to sustain and expand this growth. He emphasized Moscow’s intention to deepen cooperation with Muscat in areas of mutual interest and to implement agreements made by their leaders. The meeting was part of ongoing interagency consultations between the two security councils. The last round of talks occurred in Muscat in November 2025.
According to TASS, a roadmap aiming to strengthen security cooperation from 2026 to 2028 is anticipated to be signed during the discussions. The Russian Security Council’s press service said the goal is to enhance the legal and treaty framework between the nations. Shoigu also revealed plans to establish military attaché offices at the Russian Embassy in Muscat and the Omani Embassy in Moscow, expected to happen soon.
Food and energy sectors fuel expanding trade ties
Over the past four years, trade between Russia and Oman grew by 62.3%, as reported by Russia’s Pivot to Asia, which quoted Shoigu. While hydrocarbons remain vital, trade now also involves agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, and IT services. Maritime logistics and food products are also part of the exchange. Russian investments in Omani energy and logistics projects have played a role in this expansion. This trend aligns with a broader increase in Russian non-energy exports in 2026.
In 2025, Russia began large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman. The country’s meat demand is rising due to population growth and increasing incomes. Domestic poultry consumption is projected at 102,000 tonnes in 2026, according to the publication. By 2030, Oman’s agriculture sector is expected to be worth $2.86 billion. Russian exporters of grain, poultry, and processed foods see significant growth potential as Oman works toward greater food independence.
Ports and tourism enhance bilateral connections
Moscow views Oman as a strategic southern hub for the International North-South Transport Corridor. This route connects Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, the Gulf, and East Africa. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin highlighted Oman’s advantageous location for port development. He noted that these ports could facilitate access to other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Russia has also discussed the corridor during trade talks with India.
Tourism has become another link between the two nations. The number of Russian visitors to Oman increased by 87% in 2025, reaching approximately 80,000, according to the publication. Both countries maintain a mutual visa-free regime. More Russian companies are establishing subsidiaries in Oman to benefit from its special economic zones. The publication also mentioned that the ports of Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat offer competitive infrastructure, making Oman an attractive destination for investment and travel.
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