A protocol has been signed to establish inspection and quarantine requirements for Maldivian wild aquatic products exported to China.

The agreement was signed between Maldives Food and Drug Authority (MFDA) with the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China on Tuesday.

According to the Ministry of Health, the protocol will enhance trade opportunities for Maldivian products in China.

The agreement was signed on behalf of MFDA by Deputy Minister of Health, Ismail Zahir and by Vice Minister of the General Administration of Customs of the People's Republic of China Wu Haiping on behalf of the Chinese government.

This protocol will facilitate trade between the two countries which in return will pave the path for Maldivian businesses to export fish products that are currently not exportable.

This includes reef fish and sea cucumber species.

Speaking at the ceremony, the Chinese Ambassador to Maldives noted that this is a mutually beneficial agreement for both countries.

Both countries shed light on the positive changes this would bring to the fishing industry as well as the national economy.

Ambassador Wang Lixin said that with this agreement, along with the FTA which will come into effect in early 2025, it will be easier to export fish products from the Maldives to China.

As fish and seafood products can be exported to China only after meeting specific standards, the protocol signed on Tuesday is expected to assist in meeting these requirements.