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Strategy looks forward to the establishment of a global specialized center in fish field

In May 2018, the Special Economic Zone Authority in Duqm (SEZAD) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Omani Food Investment Holding Company under which the latter would prepare a strategy to promote the fish industries zone in the Special Economic Zone in Duqm (SEZD) up to establishment of a global specialized center in the field of fish. This would include a number of buildings, labs, stores, as well as logistic services and other facilities that help ensure sustainable fishing, sustainable production processes, production planning, packaging processes, and the presence of trademarks and certifications in food safety and quality.

The MoU was signed by H.E. Yahya bin Said bin Abdullah Al-Jabri, Chair of SEZAD Board, and H.E. Dr. Fuad bin Jafar bin Al-Sajwani, Minister of Agriculture and Fisheries, Chair of the Company's Board

The fish industries zone will include about 60 factories, research and training center, refrigeration and freezing warehouses, and ship maintenance and repair workshops. It will also aim to promote fish farming and attract projects that add economic value to SEZD.

Promotion of fishing port facilities

The strategy includes the promotion of fishing port facilities and fish unloading areas with support services for processing facilities and ensuring the availability of an integrated supply chain for the processing of raw materials and the export of the finished product. It would also focus on working with local fishers and small and medium enterprises in Duqm and adjacent areas to obtain fresh fish through sustainable and responsible management and preparing the suitable site for the establishment of fish industries with sufficient land for future expansion, and supporting the establishment of a project for the manufacture of fishing vessels

Development of many facilities

The MoU provides for determining the proper location of the seafood processing series with adequate land for expansion, provision of water and electricity to the treatment site in the near future along with access to the facility to the required level.  It also stipulates support in obtaining all necessary permits such as environmental impact study, risk analysis system, Critical Control Points, ISO, Halal and FDA and EU approvals, which demonstrate that all facilities within the center meet the highest operational standards in accordance with international requirements.

Feasibility study

In accordance with the MoU, Oman Food Investment Holding will prepare a feasibility study, an action plan, an investment plan and a guide for business opportunities, including fish farming, and submit the same to SEZAD for adoption. These documents shall form the basis for entering into the development and management agreement between the two parties.

Oman Food Investment Holding is the investment arm of the Government of the Sultanate in the field of food security. Established in 2012, it was to enhance food security by investing in food projects locally and abroad in partnership with local investment funds and companies from inside and outside the Sultanate.