Maldives and China Sign Agreement for Seafood Exports, Boosting Local Trade Opportunities

The Maldives and China have signed a landmark agreement aimed at boosting Maldivian seafood exports to China, marking a significant step in enhancing trade relations between the two nations. The agreement was signed by Vice Minister of the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China (GACC), Wu Haiping, and Deputy Minister of Health, Ismail Zahir.

Deputy Minister Zahir emphasized that the agreement will provide valuable advantages for local businesses seeking to expand their market reach internationally. In a statement, Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives, Wang Lixin, highlighted the mutual benefits this partnership brings, particularly in facilitating easier access for Chinese businesses to Maldives-sourced seafood.

The export of seafood products to China will be contingent upon meeting specific quality and safety standards, which the Maldivian health ministry will ensure are met. This agreement, therefore, also strengthens regulatory alignment, making Maldivian seafood exports more competitive in the global market.

As part of the government’s broader economic goals, this agreement is anticipated to support increased benefits from ocean resources, particularly as the Maldives prepares to implement its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China, expected to take effect next year. Trade activities between the Maldives and China currently amount to USD 700 million, with projections suggesting this could rise to USD 1 billion under the new FTA.