Muscat: The Food Security Lab 2025 concluded its proceedings today with substantial outcomes reflecting the strategic approaches of the Sultanate of Oman in boosting food security. These outcomes included the implementation of 31 enabling initiatives and 27 investment projects valued at RO 37.2 million, alongside the identification of 62 promising investment opportunities distributed across several vital sectors.
According to Oman News Agency, the lab’s proceedings revealed significant sectoral investments. The plant production sector accounted for 21 projects valued at RO 5.6 million, while the livestock sector registered one project valued at RO 270,000. Four projects were approved in the fisheries sector with a value reaching RO 31.3 million, and one project in the water resources sector valued at RO 50,000.
The closing ceremony was held under the patronage of Dr. Khamis Saif Al Jabri, Head of the Oman Vision 2040 Follow-up Unit. During the lab, 13 usufruct contracts were inked in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing and Urban Planning, distributed across several governorates of the Sultanate of Oman, aimed at supporting food security investments.
In Dhofar Governorate, agreements were made for cultivating local garlic, lemons, and frankincense. In North Al Batinah Governorate, projects for wild truffles and beans cultivation were signed. South Al Batinah Governorate saw a project for vegetable production, while A’Dakhiliyah Governorate signed a contract for olive cultivation. Other governorates also witnessed various agricultural and livestock projects aimed at enhancing the Sultanate’s food security.
The initiative “Localizing the Second Billion” emerged as a strategic pillar, focusing on boosting national production and reducing dependence on external sources. The Food Security Investment Program further approved 436 projects valued at RO 1.757 billion, emphasizing sustainable development across food and water sectors.
The lab also announced several investment projects in sustainable food production, including a market for various food products and intensive aquaculture projects. Additionally, agreements were made to develop fishing ports and utilize dredged materials, alongside training initiatives for modern irrigation systems.
Institutional and developmental initiatives were launched to enhance national capacities in the food security sector, promoting knowledge transfer, and digital transformation. The lab’s activities included enhancing statistical systems to support developmental decision-making.