The wheat is destined for Oman’s two major public flour mills, Salalah Mills Co SAOG and Oman Flour Mills Co SAOG, with unloading scheduled at the ports of Salalah and Sultan Qaboos in Muscat. Unlike past shipments that often included mixed grains for regional markets, this shipment consists solely of high-quality wheat, reflecting Oman’s increasing demand for direct, grower-sourced grain and a strategic shift in procurement practices.
Oman imports approximately 400,000 metric tonnes of Australian wheat annually, primarily Australian Premium White, Prime Hard, and Soft White varieties. The successful delivery highlights the efficiency of Oman’s food security system, showcasing effective coordination of global supply chains, procurement, and port logistics. This milestone ensures a steady supply of wheat for Oman’s flour milling industry, supporting food security and economic stability.
Salalah Mills CEO Ahmed Alawi Abdullah Al Dahab stated: “We are proud of the seamless coordination that made this historic shipment possible. This achievement strengthens our ability to meet the nation’s wheat needs reliably.” He also expressed gratitude to Haitham Al Fann, CEO of Oman Flour Mills Co, for his collaboration in the effort.
The record-breaking shipment reinforces the strong trade relationship between Oman and Australia, a key supplier of high-quality wheat. By securing such a large volume of wheat, Oman enhances its capacity to meet domestic consumption needs, particularly for flour production, which is vital for food manufacturing and household use.
This achievement underscores the maturity of Oman’s import and logistics infrastructure, enabling the country to handle large-scale shipments efficiently. The focus on high-quality, single-origin wheat aligns with efforts to optimize supply chains and ensure consistent availability of essential food commodities. The collaboration between Salalah Grains International, Salalah Mills, and Oman Flour Mills demonstrates a commitment to strengthening food security through strategic partnerships and robust trade networks.
The arrival of the MV Vela Star not only sets a new benchmark for wheat imports in Oman but also highlights the importance of reliable international trade in meeting the country’s growing demand for staple grains, contributing to long-term economic and food supply stability.
