Oman launches wheat farming program to boost national food security

Oman’s Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources has launched an ambitious wheat farming initiative under the Wheat Cultivation Expansion Project (2023–2027), aimed at enhancing the country’s food security amid global supply disruptions and in line with Vision 2040 goals.

The program promotes modern agronomic practices, including improved seed varieties, better irrigation management, balanced fertilization, and integrated pest control. These measures have already supported higher yields in pilot areas and are helping to expand cultivation zones.

The Ministry also began a wheat seed distribution drive, offered irrigation guidance, and conducted on-field monitoring to ensure strong production outcomes and grain quality.

In the 2024/2025 season, local wheat production rose to 10,128 tonnes, up from 7,000 tonnes in the previous season. Key contributions came from expanded cultivation in major areas such as Dhofar’s Najd region (over 6,400 acres) and Al Mudhaibi in North Sharqiyah.

The initiative is backed by RO 5 million (approximately US$13 million) in government subsidies through 2027. It provides high-yield, climate-adapted varieties, modern equipment, and free harvesting services to support farmers and further strengthen national wheat production.

Tags: wheat, Oman