MOSCOW, Russia / EuroWire.IO / – In recent years, bilateral commerce between Russia and Oman has seen substantial growth, reaching a ten-year peak, according to Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu on October 20. The two nations’ trade volume surged 22 times over in the first seven months of 2026, totaling $1.5 billion. Shoigu announced these figures during discussions in Moscow with Idris Al-Kindi, the Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Notably, this figure already surpasses the $1 billion milestone that both countries targeted for 2027.
Shoigu highlighted that Russia and Oman possess ample 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 carry out agreements signed by the highest officials of both nations. The meeting took place during interagency consultations involving the two security councils, with the previous session held in Muscat in November 2025.
According to TASS, a comprehensive plan for enhanced security collaboration spanning 2026 to 2028 is anticipated to be signed during the current negotiations. The Russian Security Council’s press service stated that efforts are underway to strengthen the legal and treaty frameworks between the two countries. Shoigu also revealed plans to establish military attaché offices at the Russian Embassy in Muscat and the Omani Embassy in Moscow, which he said would be realized shortly.
Trade Expansion Driven by Food and Energy
Trade growth between Russia and Oman accelerated notably in the four years leading up to 2024, with an increase of 62.3%, according to Russia’s Pivot to Asia, which also reported Shoigu’s remarks. While hydrocarbons continue to be significant, the exchange of goods now encompasses sectors such as agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, and information technology services. Maritime logistics and foodstuffs are also integral components of this expanding trade network. Investment from Russia into Omani energy and logistics projects has played a part in fueling this trend. The pattern aligns with a broader increase in Russia’s non-energy exports in 2026.
In 2025, Russia commenced large-scale shipments of refrigerated meat to Oman. Growing population and rising incomes in Oman are fueling increased demand for meat. The country’s domestic poultry consumption is projected to reach 102,000 tonnes in 2026. Furthermore, Oman’s agriculture market is forecasted to hit $2.86 billion by 2030. Russian exporters of grains, poultry, and processed foods see opportunities for expansion as Oman aims to achieve greater food independence.
Ports and Tourism Foster Closer Connections
Moscow regards Oman as a strategic southern hub for the International North-South Transport Corridor, which links Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, the Gulf, and East Africa. Russian Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has described Oman’s geographical position as highly advantageous for port development, noting that these ports could facilitate access to other Middle Eastern markets and Africa. Discussions regarding the corridor have also taken place in trade talks with India.
Tourism has emerged as another important bridge connecting the two countries. In 2025, the number of Russian visitors to Oman increased by 87%, reaching an estimated 80,000, according to the publication. Both nations operate mutual visa-free regimes. Additionally, more Russian companies are establishing subsidiaries in Oman to access its special economic zones. The publication also pointed to the attractive infrastructure at ports like Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat as a further incentive for increased cooperation.
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