The Maldives’ agricultural sector is poised for advancement under a newly implemented Preferential Trade Agreement between the Maldives and Türkiye, Hussain Zamir, the State Minister of Economic Development, Transport and Trade, said.
The agreement, which the two nations began implementing on 1 August, eliminates customs duties on specific categories of goods established through bilateral negotiations. Tariff relief is provided across 75 categories of goods classified under internationally recognised customs standards.
The trade pact is expected to yield immediate benefits for the agricultural sector, permitting farmers importing necessary equipment and tools to bring them in duty-free, State Minister Zamir noted on PSM News’ 'Raajje Miadhu' programme. Türkiye, he added, utilises modern technologies within its agricultural sector, benefiting those seeking to diversify Maldivian farming.
"For those wishing to expand their agricultural activities, hydroponics systems required for farming, or various equipment needed for vertical farming, as well as materials for those cultivating crops in greenhouses, and agriculture-related items, such as pesticides or various chemical treatments applied to fields, can now be imported from Türkiye completely free of duty," State Minister Zamir elaborated.
Beyond its agricultural focus, the agreement is projected to bolster the Maldives' broader import sector. Bilateral trade between both nations currently reaches approximately USD 70 million. Under the pact, tariff relief extends to 404 categories of Turkish exports entering the Maldives, with customs duties completely eliminated for approximately half, supplying high-quality commodities to Maldivian citizens.