Muscat: The Sultanate of Oman, represented by the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources, is actively participating via videoconference in the 37th session of the Committee on Fisheries (COFI 37). The session is being held at the headquarters of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) in Rome.
According to Oman News Agency, the Omani delegation is represented by Eng. Yaqoub Khalfan Al Busaidi, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources for Fisheries. The session, which runs through 11 September, includes member states and organizations involved in fisheries and aquaculture. Key topics under discussion include the future of fisheries and aquaculture, food security, and the sustainability of fishery resources.
The session also focuses on developing management systems based on data and scientific evidence, following up on the implementation of FAO's Blue Transformation framework. This framework aims to sustainably increase production, improve value chain efficiency, and enhance investment and employment in coastal communities.
Global fisheries resource status, climate change impacts on marine ecosystems, and the development of sustainable aquaculture to meet growing demands are also being addressed. Discussions include international trade, product quality, reducing loss and waste, supporting small-scale fisheries, and combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
Oman's participation underscores its commitment to formulating international fisheries policies, sharing its sector development experiences, and strengthening partnerships with FAO and other organizations. The fisheries sector is a key economic contributor to Oman Vision 2040, with significant coastline and marine diversity.
Fisheries production in Oman reached approximately 991,000 tonnes in 2025, valued at nearly RO 703 million. The artisanal fishing sector contributed significantly, highlighting its economic and social impact. The aquaculture sector also saw rapid growth, with production reaching 9,240 tonnes in 2025, supported by investment projects and regulatory developments.
Oman has advanced its fisheries resource management through electronic tracking systems, scientific research, regulated fishing seasons, and improved fishing fleet and port efficiency. These efforts aim to enhance the sector's potential and integrate Omani fish products into regional and global markets.