MOSCOW, Russia / EuroWire.IO / – Russia’s trade with Oman has reached its peak in ten years, according to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu on October 20. During the first seven months of 2026, bilateral trade increased 22-fold, amounting to $1.5 billion. Shoigu shared these figures during discussions in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, who heads Oman’s National Security Council as Secretary General. Notably, these results already surpass the $1 billion goal set by both nations for 2027.
Shoigu emphasized that Russia and Oman possess all necessary opportunities to sustain this positive momentum and set new records. He affirmed Moscow’s intention to deepen cooperation with Muscat across sectors of mutual interest and to implement agreements reached by their leaders. The meeting took place as part of interagency consultations between the two security councils. The previous session was held in Muscat in November 2025.
According to TASS, a plan for enhanced security collaboration covering 2026 to 2028 was anticipated to be signed during the discussions. The Russian Security Council’s press service noted that the goal is to strengthen the bilateral legal and treaty framework. Shoigu also announced plans to establish military attaché offices at the Russian Embassy in Muscat and the Omani Embassy in Moscow, stating this would happen shortly.
Food, energy, and logistics boost new trade pathways
Trade between Russia and Oman saw a 62.3% increase over the four years leading up to 2024, as reported by Russia’s Pivot to Asia, which shared Shoigu’s remarks. While hydrocarbons continue to be significant, trade now also includes sectors such as agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, and IT services. Maritime logistics and food commodities are key components of the evolving trade. Russian investments in Omani energy and logistics initiatives have played a role in this growth. This trend aligns with a broader rise in Russian non-energy exports in 2026.
In 2025, Russia initiated large shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman. The country’s demand for meat continues to increase due to population growth and rising incomes. The publication projected domestic poultry consumption at 102,000 tonnes in 2026. Oman’s agriculture market is forecasted to reach $2.86 billion by 2030. Russian exporters of grain, poultry, and processed foods see significant potential to expand in Oman’s market as the nation aims for greater food self-sufficiency.
Ports and tourism help solidify bilateral ties
Moscow considers Oman 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 highlighted Oman’s advantageous location for port development. He noted that the 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 key link between the two nations. In 2025, the number of Russian visitors to Oman increased by 87%, reaching an estimated 80,000, according to the publication. Both countries benefit from a mutual visa-free travel agreement. Additionally, more Russian companies are establishing subsidiaries in Oman to access its special economic zones. The publication also highlighted the competitive infrastructure at ports such as Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat as factors attracting business and tourism.
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