President Muizzu Reports $124M in Goods Imported Under China-Maldives FTA, Hails New Era of Bilateral Ties at Expo 2026 Forum

President Dr. Mohamed Muizzu has announced that goods worth 124 million US dollars have been imported into the Maldives under the China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA) since its implementation. The President made the remarks while speaking at the China-Maldives Investment Corporation Forum, held this morning in connection with the Maldives Expo 2026. The President stated that the Maldives is ready to welcome responsible investments and that the government will work to ensure their success. He described the forum not merely as a meeting for consultation, but as the beginning of a new chapter of friendship that has brought visible benefits to citizens of both countries. Referring to the FTA, which came into effect on January 1, 2025, President Muizzu noted that Maldivian businesses have gained favorable opportunities to compete by connecting with the world's largest market. According to the President, from January 2025 to the end of August 2026, approximately 440 million US dollars worth of goods were imported from China, with a larger portion—roughly 124 million dollars—imported under the agreement. The President emphasized that the aim should not be solely to increase trade volume, but to strengthen economic ties so that the benefits of the partnership accrue to the entire society. He highlighted opportunities to sell high-quality local fish varieties, handicraft products, and services in the Chinese market, calling on Chinese companies to collaborate with Maldivian businesses through modern production, supply chains, and sales systems. Discussing the country’s long-term development plan, President Muizzu said the nation’s strategy is aimed at becoming a fully developed country by 2040 under 'Vision 2040.' To achieve this, he stressed the need to connect with entities ready to invest in the Maldives with innovation and a diversified economy. He also noted that an old foreign investment law lasting more than 40 years has been abolished and a new law introduced to build greater investor confidence, ensure policy certainty, and increase transparency. The President outlined sectors open for investment, including renewable energy, food security, logistics, modern fisheries products, digital technology, and artificial intelligence. He added that healthcare, financial services, construction using modern advancements, and sustainable residential development are also included. He stated that opening investment opportunities is not only for finding capital, but also for creating new industries, developing skills, and facilitating job opportunities.