The Maldives Fisheries and Ocean Resources Marketing and Promotion Corporation has entered into a strategic agreement with China’s Hainan International Economic and Trade Corporation Limited to widen market access for Maldivian fishery products.
The agreement was signed by the corporation’s Managing Director Dr Mohamed Ibrahim and Hainan International Economic and Trade Corporation General Manager Patricia Wang Meihong. The partnership aims to facilitate access to multiple Chinese cities, strengthening the presence of Maldivian fishery exports in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.
Corporation Chairman Ahmed Sharif said the collaboration with a locally based Chinese entity was a practical step to address language barriers and operational challenges, particularly in markets where English is not widely used. Representatives from the Hainan delegation said the initiative reflects a broader effort to diversify Maldives China relations beyond tourism, with an emphasis on introducing and developing Maldivian brands for Chinese consumers.
Alongside the international agreement, the corporation has also signed a domestic partnership with the Dhiggaru Marketing Corporation to support the standardisation and promotion of artisanal fish products. The agreement was signed by Dr Ibrahim and Dhiggaru Marketing Corporation Vice Chairperson Ismail Mahid.
The initiative is aimed at curbing the circulation of counterfeit products, including items falsely marketed as Dhiggaru Rihaakuru, a traditional Maldivian concentrated fish paste. Dhiggaru Council President Ahmed Nishan said establishing a verified brand identity is necessary to address economic losses faced by local producers due to imitation goods.
Officials said the Dhiggaru initiative is expected to serve as a reference point for similar collaborations with other island councils, supporting stronger market access and recognition for locally produced fishery products.
