Muscat: The shrimp fishing season commenced across various coastal communities within the governorates of South Al Sharqiyah, Dhofar, and Al Wusta, and is set to extend for a duration of three months, concluding in the latter part of November.
Salem bin Sultan Al Arimi, the Director of the Department of Agricultural, Fisheries, and Water Resources located in Jalan Bani Bu Hassan, elucidated that the shrimp fishing season stands as a pivotal period for Omani fishermen, as it significantly contributes to the nation's total shrimp production. In the 2023 season, the Sultanate of Oman witnessed a substantial output of 2,761 tonnes, with notable contributions from artisanal shrimp fishing efforts. Specifically, 2,024 tonnes were harvested in Al Wusta Governorate, while South Al Sharqiyah Governorate contributed 717 tonnes to the total. Furthermore, these efforts led to a significant export volume of 2,680 tonnes, valued at OMR6.6 million.
He further highlighted that the 2022 season saw a total shrimp production of 1,721 tonnes, with Al Wusta Governorate leading with a landing quantity of 1,319 tonnes, closely followed by South Al Sharqiyah Governorate with 402 tonnes.
Al Arimi emphasized that the quantity and quality of shrimp caught in the artisanal fishing sector of 2023 have been commendable, offering substantial economic benefits to the fishermen and the broader fisheries sector. He noted that the market price for shrimp can vary between OMR2 to 4 per kilogram, contingent upon the supply and demand dynamics.
He also underscored the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources' commitment to ensuring the sustainability of this vital economic resource. The Ministry has directed its specialized teams to guide fishermen in adhering to regulations and laws aimed at preserving the sustainability of the shrimp fishery. This includes the use of appropriate fishing gear and the prohibition of the use of fishing nets that are deemed harmful to the ecosystem.
