Economic Minister Says President’s Efforts Driving Maldivian Fish Exports as Ensis Pvt Ltd Signs China Deal

The Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has stated President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s efforts to promote Maldivian products in the international market are yielding positive results. He made the statement following an agreement signed between local company, Ensis Fisheries Pvt Ltd and a mainland Chinese company to export fish products to China under the Maldives-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

The signing ceremony was held in Beijing, China under the FTA which came into force on 1 January. The agreement was signed by Ensis Fisheroes’ General Manager, Husain Afeef, and Xinguang Show Beijing Commercial Management Corporation Limited’s Chairman. The ceremony was attended by Maldivian Ambassador to China Dr Fazeel Najeeb, State Minister for Fisheries and Ocean Resources Dr Amzath Ahmed as well as representatives from major Chinese media outlets.

Under the agreement, Ensis Fisheries will export its fish products to China, including canned tuna and frozen tuna. The first shipment is scheduled to be exported to China mid-March to Beijing. The products will also be sold in provinces near Beijing as well as on online platforms.

Minister Saeed congratulated Ensis Fisheries on its preparations to for entering the Chinese market under the Free Trade Agreement. He credited the President’s efforts to facilitate the international sale of Maldivian products in the international market, and stated that the results of his swift steps are now becoming evident.

The Maldives-China Free Trade Agreement (FTA) will expand exports and re-exports, the government had previously said. The government notes that the processing and export of Maldivian fish products and other goods will be facilitated for the Maldives, which will create new business and employment opportunities.

While China has a population of over 1.41 billion, economic experts suggest that access to such a large market will accelerate the growth of the Maldives’ businesses and economy.