Maldives Signs Strategic Partnership With China to Boost Fishery Exports

The Maldives Fisheries and Ocean Resources Marketing and Promotion Corporation has signed a strategic agreement with China’s Hainan International Economic and Trade Corporation Limited to expand the global reach of Maldivian fishery products.

The accord, formalised by Managing Director Dr Mohamed Ibrahim and Hainan General Manager Patricia Wang Meihong, aims to secure market access across multiple Chinese cities, enhancing the visibility of Maldivian exports in one of the world’s largest consumer markets.

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Corporation Chairman Ahmed Sharif said the partnership with a local Chinese firm was a tactical step to overcome language barriers and streamline operations in a region where English proficiency is limited. The Hainan delegation indicated that the initiative forms part of broader efforts to diversify bilateral relations beyond tourism, focusing on promoting Maldivian brands to Chinese consumers.

Domestically, the corporation has also reached an agreement with the Dhiggaru Marketing Corporation to standardise and promote artisanal products. Signed by Dr Ibrahim and Vice Chairperson Ismail Mahid, the initiative seeks to tackle the proliferation of counterfeit goods, particularly products falsely labelled as Dhiggaru Rihaakuru, a traditional concentrated fish paste.

Dhiggaru Council President Ahmed Nishan highlighted the importance of establishing a verified brand identity to reduce economic losses from unauthorised imitation products. Officials said the project is intended to serve as a model for future collaborations with other island councils, strengthening market access for local producers.