MOSCOW, Russia / EuroWire.IO / – Russia’s trade with Oman has hit its peak in ten years, according to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu on October 20. The two countries saw bilateral trade increase by 22 times to $1.5 billion during the first seven months of 2026. Shoigu shared these statistics during discussions in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, who serves as Secretary General and heads Oman’s National Security Council. Notably, these figures already surpass the $1 billion goal both nations aimed to achieve by 2027.
Shoigu highlighted that Russia and Oman possess all necessary prospects to continue this upward trajectory and set new records. He emphasized Moscow’s intention to strengthen cooperation with Muscat across various sectors and to execute agreements made by the highest authorities of both nations. The meeting took place within the framework of interagency consultations between the two security councils, following a previous round held in Muscat in November 2025.
According to TASS, a comprehensive plan for enhanced security collaboration spanning 2026 to 2028 was anticipated to be signed during the talks. The Russian Security Council’s press service noted that the goal is to reinforce the bilateral legal and treaty infrastructure. Additionally, Shoigu announced plans to establish military attaché offices at the Russian Embassy in Muscat and at the Omani Embassy in Moscow, stating this would happen soon.
Food and energy sectors energize new trade pathways
Over the four years leading up to 2024, trade between Russia and Oman saw an increase of 62.3%, according to Russia’s Pivot to Asia, which reported Shoigu’s remarks. While hydrocarbons remain a vital component, current exchanges now also include agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, and IT services. Maritime logistics and food commodities have become integral to this growing relationship. Russian investments in Omani energy and logistics projects have contributed significantly to this growth. This trend aligns with a broader increase in Russian non-energy exports in 2026.
In 2025, Russia began exporting large volumes of refrigerated meat to Oman. The country’s demand for meat continues to rise, driven by population growth and increasing incomes. Domestic poultry consumption is projected to reach 102,000 tonnes in 2026, as reported. Oman’s agricultural market is forecasted to grow to $2.86 billion by 2030. As Oman seeks greater food self-sufficiency, Russian exporters of grain, poultry, and processed foods see expanding opportunities in the Omani market.
Ports and tourism bolster diplomatic and economic bonds
Moscow views Oman as a strategic southern hub for the International North-South Transport Corridor. This route links Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, the Gulf, and East Africa. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has described Oman’s geographic position as highly advantageous for port development. He noted that these ports could facilitate access to other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Discussions regarding the corridor have also taken place during trade talks with India.
Tourism has become another important connection. The publication reports that the number of Russian tourists visiting Oman increased by 87% in 2025, reaching an estimated 80,000 visitors. Both countries implement a mutual visa-free arrangement. More Russian firms are establishing subsidiaries within Oman’s special economic zones to benefit from its infrastructure. The report further attributes this growth to the competitive port facilities at Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat, which serve as additional attractions for travelers and investors alike.