The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has formalised a protocol with China’s General Administration of Customs (GACC) to establish inspection and quarantine requirements for Maldivian wild aquatic products destined for the Chinese market. This new framework aims to streamline trade processes and enhance opportunities for Maldivian seafood exports to China.
The signing ceremony was attended by Deputy Minister of Health Ismail Zahir and Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives Wang Lixin. In a post on social media platform X, Ambassador Wang expressed his enthusiasm for the agreement, stating, “Very pleased to attend the signing ceremony of the Protocol on inspection & quarantine requirements for Maldives’ wild aquatic products exported to China, which will help promote the trade of aquatic products. I believe Maldives can benefit a lot from the huge market of China.”
Following the agreement, Deputy Minister Zahir noted that the protocol would provide increased ease of access for local businesses seeking to expand their products into the Chinese market. Ambassador Wang further highlighted that the agreement would provide mutual benefits for both countries, paving the way for Chinese businesses to more readily source Maldivian seafood.
The protocol ensures that all Maldivian seafood exported to China adheres to the required health and quality standards. To facilitate this, the Health Ministry has pledged its support in assisting local producers to meet these standards, ensuring compliance with Chinese regulations.
This agreement aligns with the Maldivian government’s broader efforts to harness its ocean resources, particularly as it prepares to implement a free trade agreement (FTA) with China next year. Current trade between the Maldives and China amounts to approximately USD 700 million annually, with the government forecasting an increase to USD 1 billion following the FTA’s implementation.
The protocol marks a significant step in strengthening trade ties between the Maldives and China, enhancing market access for Maldivian seafood and positioning the country to benefit from China’s expansive consumer market.
