MOSCOW, Russia / EuroWire.IO / – Trade between Russia and Oman surged 22-fold to $1.5 billion during the first seven months of 2026, according to Sergei Shoigu, Secretary of Russia’s Security Council. Shoigu stated this was the highest figure in the past decade. His comments came on October 20 at a Moscow meeting with Idris Al-Kindi, Secretary General of Oman’s National Security Council. Previously, the two nations had targeted $1 billion in trade by 2027.
Shoigu emphasized that both sides have great potential to build on this positive trend and break new trade records. He also mentioned Russia’s intention to strengthen cooperation with Muscat in areas of shared interest. Additionally, Russia will implement the agreements made by the two heads of state. The Security Council’s press service called the discussions interagency consultations. The last meeting took place in Muscat in November 2025.
A plan for expanding bilateral security cooperation from 2026 to 2028 was expected to be signed during the Moscow talks, as reported by TASS. The security councils of both countries prepared the document following the Muscat meeting. Shoigu also revealed plans for Russia and Oman to establish military attaché offices at their embassies in Muscat and Moscow soon. No specific date was given for these openings.
Trade diversifies beyond hydrocarbons
The increase in trade began earlier in this decade. From 2020 to 2024, bilateral trade grew by 62.3%, according to Russia’s Pivot to Asia, a business publication that cited Shoigu’s remarks. Now, trade includes agriculture, metals, petrochemicals, machinery, IT services, maritime logistics, and food products. Russian investments in Omani energy, logistics, and food security projects have fueled this growth. The numbers reflect a broader rise in Russia’s non-resource exports this year.
In 2025, Russia started shipping large quantities of refrigerated meat to Oman for the first time. Oman’s domestic poultry consumption is expected to reach 102,000 tonnes in 2026. Russian meat and poultry producers aim to expand their market share there. Oman also seeks to improve food self-sufficiency under its Oman Vision 2040 plan. Institutions like the Joint Economic Commission and the Oman-Russia Business Council are supporting economic ties.
Oman seen as a strategic southern hub for transport corridor
Russia considers Oman a key southern gateway for the International North-South Transport Corridor. This route connects Russia with Iran, Central Asia, India, and markets in the Gulf and East Africa. Deputy Prime Minister Marat Khusnullin has highlighted Oman’s strategic location for port development. He noted that links between Russian and Omani ports are very promising for the North-South route. The corridor is also part of Russia’s trade plans with India.
Tourism is another expanding area of cooperation. In 2025, Russian visitors to Oman increased by 87%, totaling around 80,000 tourists, according to the publication. Both countries have a mutual visa-free arrangement. More Russian companies are opening subsidiaries in Oman. The publication notes they are attracted by Oman’s special economic zones and ports at Salalah, Duqm, Sohar, and Muscat.