Minister of Economic Development Fayyaz Ismail has highlighted the need to increase fish exports to China. He made the remark at the business forum held to mark the 50th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and the Maldives.
Speaking at the forum, Minister Fayyaz said China plays a huge role in the Maldivian economy and the development of the country in the past 50 years by providing assistance for projects such as the development of Sinamale’ Bridge, Velana International Airport (VIA), and the Hiyaa flats. He also said China is involved in the Maldivian fisheries sector and that discussions are being held with the Embassy of China to increase fish exports. He highlighted that previous discussions have determined that Maldivian fish products have the potential to become popular in the Chinese market.
Furthermore, Minister Fayyaz said that China also plays a huge role in the Maldivian tourism industry and was the number one contributor to tourist arrivals before the COVID-19 pandemic. He said China’s subsequent lockdown has greatly decreased the number of tourist visits from the country.
Speaking to PSM News, Minister Fayyaz said that direct flight connections will be established between China and the Maldives next year, which will significantly increase the total number of tourist arrivals.
The Business Forum on Joint Construction of the Belt and Road between China and the Maldives was held to mark the 50th anniversary of the diplomatic relations between the two countries. Business delegations from both countries attended the forum, which included Ambassador of China to the Maldives Wang Lixin.