The Maldives and China have discussed ways to strengthen bilateral trade and make greater use of opportunities available under the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA), as Economic Development, Transport and Trade Minister Mohamed Saeed continues his official visit to China.
Minister Saeed held talks with Hainan Province Governor Liu Xiaoming, focusing on deepening trade relations and expanding economic cooperation between the Maldives and China. The discussions also explored opportunities to maximise the benefits of the FTA and develop joint initiatives aimed at supporting sustained economic growth in both countries.
The Maldivian side welcomed the Chinese government's readiness to support the Maldives' development priorities under the leadership of President Mohamed Muizzu and Chinese President Xi Jinping. The discussions also sought to advance economic cooperation in line with the understandings reached between the two leaders during President Muizzu's state visit to Beijing in 2024.
As part of his visit, Minister Saeed also toured the Haiken Group Product Exhibition Hall, where he met Deputy General Manager Meng Xiaoliang and senior officials of Hainan State Farms Investment Holding Group.
The meeting focused on expanding cooperation in key areas including food security and regional connectivity, while also exploring opportunities to increase fisheries exports from the Maldives to Hainan.
The engagements highlight efforts by both countries to translate their growing bilateral relationship into expanded trade, investment and practical economic opportunities, particularly through closer cooperation with Hainan Province and greater utilisation of the China-Maldives FTA.
