Oman imports over 428,000 livestock to meet demand to meet red meat demand
The Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources has imported over 428,000 live animals to ensure a stable red meat supply. Veterinary measures are already in place to prevent the spread of animal diseases in the Sultanate.
OMAN – Oman has brought in 428,449 live animals this season to meet consumer needs for red meat, according to the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources.
The imported livestock includes 29,092 cattle and 399,357 sheep and goats, which have been brought in through coordination with specialized companies.
To safeguard public health, the Veterinary Quarantine Centre is monitoring all imports to ensure they are free from infectious diseases.
Veterinary officials are conducting mandatory health screenings on every animal before they enter the market to prevent the spread of epidemics or common livestock illnesses in Oman.
Growth in Livestock Exports
In 2023, Oman exported 3,363,443 kilograms of livestock, reflecting a 45% rise from 2,594,211 kilograms in 2022, according to preliminary data from the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).
The country’s poultry production, however, dropped by 2.22% last year, amounting to 132 million kilograms compared to 135 million kilograms in 2022.
Livestock Production and Agricultural Land
Oman’s livestock production index tracks various agricultural outputs, including meat, milk, dairy products, eggs, honey, raw silk, wool, and hides.
The index recorded a 12.25% rise in 2016, reversing a previous decline of 2.01% in 2013.
Current production figures indicate annual outputs of 12,800 tons of red meat, 23,000 tons of poultry, 185 million eggs, and 135 million liters of milk.
As of 2021, agricultural land accounted for 4.7374% of Oman’s total land area.
Livestock imports and local production continue to play a crucial role in maintaining food security and meeting consumer demand in the Sultanate.
Oman’s A’Saffa Foods expands broiler production
Oman’s meat industry has been quite lively.
Earlier this year, A’Saffa Foods SAOG announced plans to increase its broiler chicken production capacity from 48 million to 60 million birds annually as part of an ambitious expansion strategy.
This growth initiative is designed to address the growing demand for high-quality poultry products in Oman and neighboring markets.
The company’s Board of Directors stated that the expansion aligns with A’Saffa Foods’ five-year strategic growth plan and reflects its commitment to enhancing food security while maintaining its position as a leading poultry producer.
A spokesperson for A’Saffa Foods described the move as a step toward sustainable growth, emphasizing the company’s dedication to providing premium halal poultry products.
“This initiative ensures we meet rising customer demand and contribute to Oman’s economic development under Oman Vision 2040,” the spokesperson said.
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