Maldivian Tuna Processed in China for the First Time Through FTA Collaboration
The initial canned tuna sample made in China features Maldivian tuna | Photo: Ahmed Shiyam via X
A Chinese company has produced the first sample batch of canned tuna using Maldivian tuna exports to China.
Thrilled to congratulate Weihai QZ Blusea Foods Co. Ltd. and the Jingweidao brand team for successfully producing the first sample batch of canned tuna made from Maldives-caught fish. These samples were presented to the Maldives Ambassador to China, HE Fazeel Najeeb, @MDVinChina.… pic.twitter.com/TrqFhYSE3d
— Ahmed Shiyam (@Shiyamaldives) July 5, 2025advertisement
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The canned tuna was manufactured through a collaboration between Weihai QZ Blusea Foods Co. Ltd. and the Jingweidao brand. The initial samples were presented to the Maldives’ Ambassador to China, Fazeel Najeeb, during a special ceremony held in China.
The Minister of Fisheries and Ocean Resources, Ahmed Shiyam, stated that the project had been made possible through the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement, which removes import duties on Maldivian fish exports to China. The Minister described the initiative as a pioneering step in taking advantage of the free trade agreement, which enables Maldivian fish products to enter the Chinese market free of import duty.
He further noted that the duty exemption formed part of President Dr Mohamed Muizzu’s strategic efforts to diversify the fisheries sector, identify new markets, and promote sustainable, high-value fish products on a global scale. The Minister highlighted the production of the canned tuna as a proud achievement for bilateral trade, sustainable fisheries, and regional cooperation.
The China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement came into effect on 1 January this year. The agreement is expected to create broader trade and investment opportunities between the two countries. Under its terms, 296 types of seafood products can be exported to China without attracting import duty, giving Maldivian businesses the chance to sell seafood to the Chinese market at prices that comply with World Trade Organisation standards.
