Business

22 hectares allotted for new aquaculture project in Shinas

 
MUSCAT, AUG 9

Bahwah Services and Trading LLC and Muscat Investment House, two prominent Omani companies, have joined forces with Singapore-based Blue Aqua International to embark on a groundbreaking aquaculture project. The collaborative effort aims to construct a state-of-the-art facility spanning 22 hectares of land in Shinas, Oman. The project is projected to yield substantial quantities of white shrimp, Rainbow Trout and aquafeed, contributing significantly to Oman’s aquaculture production.

According to Blue Aqua’s company overview for 2023-2024, the aquaculture project in Shinas holds immense promise, with an estimated production capacity of 1.32 million metric tonnes (MT) of white shrimp, 3,000 MT of Rainbow Trout, and 30,000 MT of aquafeed. This ambitious venture will not only enhance Oman's self-sufficiency in seafood production but also position the nation as a major player in the aquaculture sector.

The aquaculture project will leverage advanced technologies and sustainable practices to maximise productivity while minimising environmental impact. The implementation of efficient water management systems, waste treatment protocols, and biosecurity measures will ensure the project meets the highest global standards for sustainability and quality assurance.

The establishment of the aquaculture project in Shinas is expected to generate employment opportunities and drive economic growth in the region. The project will create jobs across various sectors, including farming, processing, logistics, and research and development. Moreover, the initiative will attract investments and foster collaboration within the aquaculture value chain, benefitting local communities and contributing to the overall socio-economic development of Oman.

The partnership between Bahwah Services, Muscat Investment House, and Blue Aqua International represents a significant milestone in Oman's aquaculture industry. By harnessing the expertise and resources of these companies, the aquaculture project in Shinas is poised to revolutionise the aquaculture sector in the country and establish Oman as a regional leader in sustainable seafood production.

The Shinas project marks the most recent endeavor undertaken by the three companies. Bahwah Services and Muscat Investment House have announced their intention to invest in Blue Aqua's proposed recirculating aquaculture system (RAS) trout farm in Singapore, as per a recently signed agreement. This investment aims to expedite the construction process of the farm, which is anticipated to commence operations in 2024, with an annual trout production capacity of 3,000 metric tonnes (MT).

Furthermore, the Omani companies have expressed their support for Blue Aqua International's plans to establish a super-intensive indoor shrimp farm with a capacity of 1,000 MT, as well as a 30,000 MT aquafeed mill, both located in Singapore.