Interview: Saud Hamoud Al Habsi
What are the key targets for agricultural production over the coming years, particularly in ensuring food security and reducing dependence on imports?
SAUD HAMOUD AL HABSI: Oman’s agricultural strategy over the next five to 10 years prioritises strengthening food security by diversifying crop production, increasing livestock numbers and boosting aquaculture. Diversifying crops aims to make the sultanate more self-sufficient, reducing dependency on imports. To make Omani agricultural products more competitive on a regional scale, modern farming practices, precision agriculture and sustainable methods are being adopted to help improve yield and reduce input costs. Additionally, the development of food safety systems and the improvement of the quality of food establishments both adds value and minimises food loss and waste. Export markets are being developed through quality certification, targeted marketing and collaboration with trade bodies, ensuring that Omani products meet international standards.
How will technology and innovation contribute to the transformation of Oman’s agriculture sector?
AL HABSI: Technology and innovation are transformative forces within the agriculture sector, enhancing productivity and resource management. Precision agriculture, with tools including GPS, internet-of-things sensors and drones, allows for the real-time monitoring of soil health, crop conditions and water usage, optimising the use of vital inputs. Advanced irrigation systems, such as smart and drip irrigation, conserve water – thereby helping to maintain a sustainable environment, one of the four pillars of Oman Vision 2040.
Climate-resilient crops and new farming techniques such as hydroponics and greenhouse cultivation are being introduced to maximise output with limited resources. Data analytics and artificial intelligence tools help farmers to make informed decisions based on market trends, crop health and weather predictions. Agricultural biotech, such as tissue culture, is enhancing crop yields and disease resistance. The integration of these technologies increases productivity and ensures a more sustainable and resilient agricultural system.
Which initiatives are in place to promote sustainable water resource management?
AL HABSI: Sustainable water resource management is a critical focus for the agriculture sector, given the country’s arid conditions. Efficient irrigation methods help reduce water waste and increase yields. The cultivation of drought-resistant and native crops further aligns water use with environmental preservation, reducing dependency on extensive irrigation.
Rainwater harvesting initiatives and improved soil management techniques, such as mulching and cover cropping, contribute to moisture retention and groundwater replenishment. Oman is also leveraging precision agriculture and remote sensing technologies to monitor and optimise water usage. Collectively, these measures ensure the agriculture sector maximises productivity while conserving precious water resources.
In what ways is the private sector being encouraged to participate in agricultural development?
AL HABSI: Oman is fostering private sector involvement in agriculture through incentives including tax breaks, land leases and support for modern farming techniques. Opportunities exist in greenhouse cultivation, livestock farming and food processing – areas with potential for high returns and strong market demand. The fisheries and aquaculture segments offer investment avenues in shrimp and finfish farming, with support for large-scale projects like shrimp aquaculture initiatives.
Public-private partnerships enable shared expertise and resources to help drive agricultural development. By investing in logistics, cold storage and value-added processing, the private sector is able to contribute to enhancing food security while benefitting from government-backed initiatives and a dynamic domestic market.
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