Business

Khazaen bolsters Oman's food security with new FDI initiative

The new facility will focus on refining, sorting, and packaging rice, sugar, and spices, alongside developing integrated units for food storage.
 
The new facility will focus on refining, sorting, and packaging rice, sugar, and spices, alongside developing integrated units for food storage.
MUSCAT: With the goal of advancing Oman's food security strategy, Khazaen Economic City has forged a pivotal investment partnership with Zircon Food Industries Company on Tuesday, August 27. This collaboration will establish a cutting-edge industrial complex with an investment of approximately RO 3.8 million, spanning 20,000 square metres. The facility will focus on refining, sorting, and packaging rice, sugar, and spices, alongside developing integrated units for food storage. A commitment to clean energy will be a hallmark of its initial operations.

Eng Salim bin Sulaiman al Thuhli, CEO of Khazaen Economic City, highlighted the city's dedication to enhancing food security through strategic investment opportunities. In a statement to Oman Observer, he said, 'Positioned to cater to local, Gulf, and global markets, Khazaen aims to strengthen value-added food industries, supply chains, and refrigeration capabilities. The Khazaen Central Fruit and Vegetable Market (Silal) will serve as a key international hub for fresh produce.'

Beyond the Zircon agreement, Khazaen has attracted significant projects in the food sector, including Salalah Mills Company's industrial bakery, Jasmine Oriental Company's food complex — one of the region's largest — and Oman Bio-Products Company's animal feed factory. Additional ventures in soft drink manufacturing and dry food storage have also been established. These initiatives, in collaboration with the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries, and Water Resources, support the nation's food reserve and security strategy.

Khazaen Economic City exemplifies a successful public-private partnership, pioneering the development and management of economic cities in Oman. It has attracted over $ 1 billion in investments from 17 countries, showcasing its global appeal and strategic vision.