The Maldives has entered a new chapter of commercial expansion, propelled by the operationalisation of its Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with China, enacted on 1 January and, according to Mohamed Saeed, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, already delivering measurable results.
Among the first indicators is the launch of canned fish production in China, utilising sustainably harvested Maldivian skipjack tuna. Minister Saeed credited this development to the “resolute steps” taken by President Dr Mohamed Muizzu, describing the agreement as a transformative force in shaping the nation’s trade outlook.
“China-Maldives FTA is transforming bilateral trade! Sustainably harvested Maldivian fish now being packed in China under FTA benefits – taking our trade relationship to new heights under the leadership of President @MMuizzu [Dr Mohamed Muizzu],” Minister Saeed wrote.
Chinese firms have already moved to realise the pact’s commercial potential. Weihai QZ Blusea Foods Co. Ltd. and the Jingweidao brand commenced manufacturing canned fish using Maldivian tuna, with an inaugural batch formally presented to Maldivian Ambassador to China, Fazeel Najeeb, signifying the transition from policy agreement to operational delivery.
The accord outlines duty-free provisions for 296 seafood categories exported from the Maldives to China. It also permits Maldivian enterprises to import additional seafood, apply value-added processing in accordance with World Trade Organization (WTO) standards, and re-export the upgraded products to Chinese markets.
The implications for the fishing industry are far-reaching. Renowned for its environmentally responsible methods, particularly the pole-and-line technique, whereby each fish is individually caught, the Maldives has built a reputation for sustainable seafood. The FTA now offers a pathway to deepen that reputation, enabling broader access to Chinese processing facilities and consumer markets.