The Maldives and China have discussed measures to maximise the economic opportunities available under the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA), with particular emphasis on strengthening bilateral trade, food security, regional connectivity and expanding Maldivian fisheries exports to the Chinese market.
The discussions were held during an official visit to China by the Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, Mohamed Saeed, as the Government of Maldives continues efforts to broaden international economic partnerships and create new opportunities for Maldivian businesses and exporters.
During the visit, Minister Saeed met with the Governor of Hainan Province, Liu Xiaoming, for discussions aimed at deepening trade relations and advancing mutually beneficial economic cooperation between the Maldives and China. The meeting focused on identifying practical ways to make greater use of the opportunities provided under the China-Maldives FTA while exploring additional areas of cooperation that could contribute to sustained economic growth in both countries.
Minister Saeed highlighted the Maldives’ appreciation for the continued readiness of the Government of China to support the country’s development priorities under the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The discussions reflected the strong bilateral relationship between the two countries and their shared interest in translating high-level commitments into expanded economic, commercial and development cooperation.
The talks also focused on further advancing the understandings reached between President Muizzu and President Xi during President Muizzu’s state visit to Beijing in 2024. The visit established an important framework for strengthening Maldives-China relations across a range of sectors, with economic development, trade, investment and connectivity remaining central areas of cooperation.
The China-Maldives FTA provides an important platform for Maldivian businesses to explore greater access to the Chinese market while supporting the Government’s broader strategy of diversifying trade, strengthening export capacity and creating new avenues for private-sector growth. Greater utilisation of the agreement is expected to provide further opportunities for Maldivian products, particularly fisheries and other export-oriented sectors, while encouraging stronger commercial links between businesses in the two countries.
As part of his programme in China, Minister Saeed also visited the Haiken Group Product Exhibition Hall, where he met Deputy General Manager Meng Xiaoliang and senior representatives of the Hainan State Farms Investment Holding Group. Discussions during the meeting concentrated on expanding cooperation in areas of strategic importance to the Maldives, including food security and regional connectivity.
Particular attention was given to opportunities for increasing fisheries exports from the Maldives to Hainan. Fisheries remain one of the Maldives’ most important traditional economic sectors, and expanding access to major international markets represents an important component of the Government’s efforts to increase export earnings, support local fishermen and processors, and strengthen the long-term competitiveness of Maldivian seafood products.
Hainan’s position as a major economic and commercial hub in southern China also offers potential for wider cooperation in trade and connectivity. Closer engagement with businesses and institutions in the province could provide additional channels for Maldivian exporters to reach consumers in China while creating opportunities for cooperation in supply chains, food distribution and investment.
The discussions in China reflect the Government of President Muizzu’s continued focus on strengthening international economic partnerships that can deliver practical benefits to the Maldivian economy. By seeking to maximise the China-Maldives FTA and expanding cooperation in fisheries, food security and connectivity, the Government aims to create stronger foundations for trade-led growth, diversify economic opportunities and strengthen the Maldives’ position within regional and global markets.
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