Muscat: Zakaria bin Sulaiman Al-Hassani, CEO of Simak, announced the commencement of pilot production at 35% capacity in March 2024, with plans to ramp up to a full production of 100 million cans. The factory’s high-quality tuna products will hit local markets in Oman by June.

Simak is dedicated to enhancing the value of marine products through local sourcing and partnerships. The company collaborates with Omani fishermen and small to medium enterprises, ensuring a steady supply of high-quality fish while also importing essential production materials locally. This initiative not only supports the local economy but also reduces transportation costs due to the factory’s strategic location near the Duqm fishing port.

Innovatively, Simak utilizes fish waste to produce fish oils and powder, boasting a production capacity of 9 tons of fish oil powder and 1.2 tons of fish oil daily. Water used in the fish thawing and cleaning process is repurified and recycled for irrigation and cooling factory equipment, emphasizing the company’s commitment to sustainability.

Future plans include a solar energy partnership with Omani companies and a tender to establish a new tuna can factory, further solidifying Simak’s role in the local market. With a strong focus on Omanisation, Simak aims to employ 630 Omanis at full production capacity, providing valuable skills and job opportunities to the local community.

Muhanna bin Abdullah Al-Harbi from Adwaa Ras Al-Hadd Company praised the partnership with Simak, noting the significant reduction in transportation costs and the financial benefits from increased fish supply. Similarly, Saif bin Saeed Al Junaibi, a local employee, highlighted Simak’s commitment to hiring locals and encouraged Omani youth to seize the opportunities offered by the company.