Oman’s Non-Oil Exports Show Significant Growth in Early 2025

Overview of Export Growth

Muscat – Oman’s non-oil exports have demonstrated impressive growth, largely fueled by increasing demand in key markets such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, and India. Data released by the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI) indicates that from January to May 2025, non-oil exports surged by 7.2%, reaching a total of RO2.701 billion. This is a notable increase from RO2.521 billion during the same period in 2024.

Key Markets Driving Export Demand

United Arab Emirates

The UAE has emerged as a significant market for Omani products, witnessing a remarkable increase in imports. In the first five months of 2025, exports to the UAE jumped nearly 23%, amounting to RO485 million compared to RO395 million during the previous year. This growth signifies the strengthening economic ties between Oman and the UAE, emphasizing both nations’ commitment to enhancing trade relations.

Saudi Arabia

Another noteworthy contributor to Oman’s export growth has been Saudi Arabia, with exports rising by an impressive 34.9% to RO451 million, up from RO335 million in early 2024. The increasing bilateral trade signifies a favorable response to Omani goods, reflecting strong consumer preferences in Saudi markets.

India’s Contribution

India has also shown a promising upward trajectory as a destination for Omani goods. Non-oil exports to India soared by 38.9%, reaching RO280 million, compared to RO202 million during the same months last year. This significant rise underscores India’s growing demand for diverse Omani products.

Overall Trends in Exports

The lift in Oman’s non-oil export sector is have been broadly spread across nearly all major trading partners. However, a notable exception is the United States, where exports faced a setback. Exports to the U.S. fell by 17.5%, totaling RO159 million in early 2025, down from RO193 million in the same period last year. This decline presents a challenge for Omani exporters seeking to diversify their market base.

Performance by Product Categories

Mineral Products and Chemicals

In terms of specific product categories, Oman’s mineral product exports reached RO716 million during the first five months of 2025, slightly dipping from RO721 million the previous year. On the other hand, exports of chemical products experienced a healthy rise, increasing by 9.2% to RO339 million from RO311 million last year. This uptick indicates a growing demand for Omani chemicals, likely benefitting from enhanced regional industrial activity.

Plastics and Rubber Stability

Meanwhile, exports of plastics, rubber, and related items remained relatively stable, generating RO394 million in the same period—comparable to RO399 million in early 2024. Oman’s focus on improving production capacity in downstream industries seems to have contributed to this solid performance.

Base Metals

Additionally, base metals and related articles contributed RO568 million in export value, marking a 1.4% increase from RO560 million last year. This stability in base metal exports reflects ongoing investment in manufacturing and an expanding base of international customers.

Animal Products and Re-Exports

Growth in Animal Products

Exports of live animals and animal products also showed positive growth, rising by 9.9% to RO164 million. This growth highlights Oman’s strategic focus on enhancing its agricultural sector and meeting increasing regional demand for livestock.

Decline in Re-export Activities

In contrast, Oman’s re-export sector faced challenges. There was a 10.3% decline in re-exports, which fell to RO623 million from RO695 million during the same timeframe in 2024. This decline was primarily driven by reduced transshipments of transport equipment and mineral products, indicating shifts in market dynamics and demand.

Conclusion

Oman’s non-oil export sector has shown resilience and adaptability in the first half of 2025. With robust growth in several key markets, coupled with strategic developments across various product categories, the Sultanate is working to strengthen its position in the regional and global trade landscape. The emphasis on enhancing production capabilities and expanding market reach may pave the way for sustained growth in the future, despite challenges in specific destinations like the United States.