Oman’s food industry received a significant boost with the grand opening of Barka’s new state-of-the-art bakery products manufacturing plant. A subsidiary of Salalah Mills Company, Barka Bakery is poised to become a key player in supplying high-quality baked goods to Oman, the GCC region, and international markets, furthering the Sultanate’s food security goals. The inauguration, held today in Khazaen Economic City, marks a pivotal moment for local manufacturing and economic diversification.
A New Era for Oman’s Bakery Industry
The newly established facility represents a substantial investment of approximately RO 25 million and spans an impressive 20,000 square meters. Strategically located within Khazaen Economic City in the Wilayat of Barka, South Al Batinah Governorate, the plant boasts ten modern production lines capable of producing 80 tons of bakery products daily. Complementing this capacity is a massive refrigerated storage area, holding up to 1,836 pallets – equivalent to roughly 2,000 tons – ensuring a consistent and reliable supply chain.
The opening ceremony was presided over by Eng. Masoud Said Al Hashmi, Governor of South Al Batinah, with Dr. Ahmed Nasser Al Bakri, Undersecretary of the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources for Agriculture, also in attendance. This high-level support underscores the importance of this project to Oman’s national development strategy.
Meeting Regional Demand with Advanced Technology
Barka Bakery isn’t simply increasing production capacity; it’s elevating the standards of bakery manufacturing in the region. The plant incorporates advanced baking technologies, including innovative fermentation methods and long-term processing techniques. These advancements are designed to enhance the competitiveness of Omani-made products within the rapidly expanding Gulf bakery market.
The facility is designed to cater to a diverse clientele, including hotels, restaurants, retail outlets, catering companies, and even airlines. This broad reach demonstrates the versatility and scalability of the operation.
Strengthening Food Security and Economic Diversification
The launch of Barka Bakery is a direct response to Oman’s commitment to bolstering its food industries sector and achieving greater food security. By increasing local production, the country reduces its reliance on imports and strengthens its ability to meet the needs of its population. This is particularly crucial in a global landscape often impacted by supply chain disruptions.
Furthermore, the project actively supports Oman Vision 2040, a national strategy focused on economic diversification and sustainable development. The establishment of a world-class manufacturing facility like this contributes significantly to these goals.
Salalah Mills and Khazaen Economic City: A Synergistic Partnership
The success of this venture is rooted in a strong partnership between Salalah Mills Company and Khazaen Economic City. Eng. Ali Bakheet Kashob, CEO of Salalah Mills Group, emphasized the strategic importance of building a manufacturing platform in Oman that combines expertise with innovation. He highlighted the integrated value chain, starting with wheat procurement and culminating in final product distribution, as a core strength of the business model.
Eng. Salim Suleiman Al Thuhli, CEO of Khazaen Economic City, echoed this sentiment, stating that the factory’s presence within Khazaen’s “Food City” is a qualitative addition to Oman’s industrial infrastructure. Khazaen Economic City is rapidly becoming a hub for food processing and logistics, attracting investment and creating opportunities. The city’s commitment to supporting projects that strengthen food security and contribute to economic diversification is clearly demonstrated by this collaboration.
Impact on South Al Batinah and Beyond
The economic benefits of Barka Bakery extend far beyond the food industry. The project is expected to stimulate significant economic activity in the South Al Batinah Governorate. This includes supporting local value chains, generating both direct and indirect employment opportunities, and revitalizing crucial sectors like transport, logistics, and related services.
The factory’s commitment to international standards is also noteworthy. It has implemented the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) system, secured Quality and Halal certifications, and proudly displays the “Made in Oman” mark. These certifications not only ensure product safety and quality but also enhance the marketability of Omani bakery products on a global scale. The focus on food processing and quality control will undoubtedly set a new benchmark for the industry.
A Focus on Quality and Sustainability
Beyond simply meeting demand, Barka Bakery aims to lead the way in sustainable and responsible manufacturing. The integration of modern technologies allows for optimized resource utilization and reduced waste. This commitment to sustainability aligns with Oman’s broader environmental goals and enhances the company’s long-term viability. The company is also dedicated to sourcing high-quality wheat products to ensure the best possible outcome for their customers.
In conclusion, the opening of Barka Bakery represents a landmark achievement for Oman’s food industry. This state-of-the-art facility, backed by strategic investment and a commitment to quality, is poised to play a vital role in strengthening food security, driving economic diversification, and enhancing Oman’s position as a competitive player in the regional and global bakery market. It’s a testament to the power of collaboration and innovation in achieving national development goals, and a promising sign for the future of food manufacturing in the Sultanate. We encourage stakeholders to explore partnership opportunities and learn more about the innovative solutions offered by Barka Bakery.
