Oman Fisheries Sector Grows By 8.6 Percent In First Half 2025

The fisheries sector in the Sultanate of Oman has shown strong growth in the first half of 2025. Data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) revealed that the total value of fish landed reached approximately RO 307.308 million by the end of June 2025. This represents an 8.6 percent rise compared to RO 283.099 million recorded in the same period of 2024. The increase highlights the continued importance of fisheries as a key contributor to Oman’s economy.

Rise In Landed Fish Quantities

The total quantity of fish landed reached 467,463 tons by the end of June 2025. This was an increase from 430,466 tons recorded by the end of June 2024. The 8.6 percent growth in landed fish reflects positive trends in production and a sustainable improvement in the fisheries industry across the Sultanate.

Growth In Artisanal Fishing

Artisanal fishing remained the largest contributor to the sector. Quantities landed by artisanal fishermen increased by 4.4 percent, reaching 339,886 tons by June 2025, compared to 325,610 tons in June 2024. This growth shows the continued resilience and productivity of traditional fishing practices in Oman.

Regional Contributions To Artisanal Catch

Al Wusta Governorate topped the list with the highest artisanal catch, recording 124,205 tons. It was followed by South A’Sharqiyah Governorate with 91,512 tons. The combined North and South Al Batinah Governorates recorded 39,278 tons, while Dhofar Governorate registered 39,094 tons. Musandam Governorate landed 28,545 tons, and Muscat Governorate recorded 17,253 tons. These figures highlight the regional diversity of artisanal fishing activities across Oman.

Commercial Fishing Records Strong Growth

Commercial fishing experienced the largest growth among all fishing methods. The landed quantity increased by 59 percent, reaching 59,411 tons by the end of June 2025. This was a sharp rise compared to 37,367 tons during the same period in 2024. The commercial fishing sector’s performance shows its increasing importance in boosting fish production and supporting national food security.

Coastal Fishing Shows Steady Increase

Coastal fishing also recorded a positive performance. Landed fish quantities increased by 1 percent to reach 68,165 tons by June 2025, compared to 67,490 tons in the first half of 2024. Although the growth was modest, it still reflects steady contributions to the overall sector performance.

Breakdown By Fish Type

When analyzing the catch by type, small pelagic fish ranked first among artisanal catches, with 158,705 tons landed. Large pelagic fish followed with 114,966 tons, while demersal fish accounted for 53,777 tons. Other notable categories included sharks, which recorded 3,591 tons, and crustaceans and mollusks, which together accounted for 1,675 tons. Additionally, other unclassified species contributed about 7,172 tons. This variety highlights the richness of Oman’s marine resources.

Sustainable Growth And Future Prospects

The 8.6 percent growth in both value and quantity of landed fish demonstrates that Oman’s fisheries sector is on a sustainable growth path. With artisanal, coastal, and commercial fishing all contributing, the sector is well-positioned to continue supporting economic diversification efforts under Oman Vision 2040. Authorities are expected to keep enhancing fishing practices, infrastructure, and market accessibility to ensure long-term sustainability.