Agreement signed establishing quarantine standards for fish products exported from the Maldives to China

The Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) has signed a protocol with the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China to establish inspection and quarantine requirements for exporting Maldivian wild aquatic products to China.

Deputy Minister Ismail Zahir signed the agreement on behalf of the MFDA. Vice Minister Wu Haiping of the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China signed on behalf of China.

This protocol will pave the way for trade between the two countries. As such, Maldivian businesses will have the opportunity to export types of fish that cannot currently be exported. This includes reef fish and sea cucumber varieties.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chinese Ambassador to the Maldives stated that this is a mutually beneficial agreement for both countries. Both nations noted that it will bring a positive change to the fishing industry and the country's economy.

"With the FTA also coming into effect early next year, this agreement will make it easier to export fish products from the Maldives to China," Ambassador Wang Lixin said.

Tuna and seafood products can only be exported to China upon fulfilling specific standards. Therefore, this agreement will assist in meeting those requirements.