New Delhi: As Prime Minister Narendra Modi touches down in Oman to strengthen bilateral ties, a lesser-known fact is cracking open India’s trade story: Oman is the largest importer of Indian eggs.
In 2023-24, India exported eggs worth $150 million globally, with Oman gobbling up 60% of the share, driven by high demand for India’s affordable, protein-rich eggs. This trade, rooted in proximity and quality, underscores the deepening economic bond between New Delhi and Muscat.
Oman’s reliance on Indian eggs stems from India’s robust poultry sector, which produces over 80 billion eggs annually at competitive prices. The Gulf nation, with its growing population and limited local production, imports nearly 1.2 billion eggs yearly from India. States like Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh lead the supply, with Namakkal’s ‘egg city’ fame reaching Omani markets. Indian eggs, packed with nutrition and adhering to global standards, have become a staple in Omani households and restaurants.
Modi’s visit, following his Jordan tour, aims to elevate this partnership. Discussions with Sultan Haitham bin Tarik focus on a free trade agreement, boosting egg exports further while expanding cooperation in energy and technology. The Indian diaspora in Oman, over 700,000 strong, adds warmth to these ties. As India strives to reach a $500 million egg export market by 2030, Oman continues to serve as a vital link, symbolising a trade relationship that is both enduring and nourishing.