Fisheries development in Al Wusta, Oman (2003–2023): Industrial growth, artisanal livelihoods and opportunities for sustainable co-development

The study analyzes the development and interaction of the artisanal and industrial fishing sectors in the Al Wusta region of the Sultanate of Oman from 2003 to 2023. The research examines the development of the Port of Duqm and the spread of industrial fishing, driven by government initiatives and investments, in particular the establishment of the Al Wusta Fisheries Industries Company (AWF). Fisheries statistics from the Ministry of Agriculture, Fisheries and Water Resources (MAFWR) and the National Center for Statistics and Information (NCSI) (2003–2023) provided primary data on fishing effort and landings for both sectors in Al Wusta. Although Al Wusta has emerged as a prominent fisheries producer, with artisanal fishing consistently producing the highest catch volumes and employing the majority of fishermen. The expansion of industrial fishing in the same pelagic fisheries highlights the importance of assessing complementarity, resource-sharing, and sustainable co-development with artisanal fisheries. In order to evaluate trends in artisanal and industrial fishing over the past 20 years, a systematic 13-question questionnaire was given to 50 purposefully chosen artisanal fisherman in Duqm. The catch per unit effort (CPUE) of industrial fishery (mean = 1386.5 tons per boat) was much higher than the artisanal fishery (mean = 43.29 tons per boat). There is a statistically significant difference in the distribution of CPUE values of industrial and artisanal fisheries (W = 394, p < 0.001). The study reveals a significant increase in total fish landing and economic value, emphasizing the need for ongoing monitoring, study, and adaptive management to maintain the long-term sustainability of fish populations and the well-being of artisanal fishing communities. 50 artisanal fishers report changing catch patterns, occasional operational overlaps with industrial vessels, and a desire for clearer regulation, which together point to opportunities for stronger co-management. It is recommended to improve the enforcement of existing fisheries regulations, conduct further research on stock dynamics and inter-sectoral interaction, and empower small-scale fishers through knowledge dissemination and co-management strategies to manage potential overlaps and promote collaboration, sustainable resource use, and equitable fisheries management in the region.