Somalia and China Sign Landmark Deal to Boost Fishery Exports

Mogadishu, Somalia – The Federal Government of Somalia and the People's Republic of China have signed a landmark agreement granting Somali fishery products duty-free access to the Chinese market, marking a significant milestone in bilateral economic cooperation and the development of Somalia's blue economy.

The agreement was on Monday signed by H.E. Ahmed Hasan Aden, Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy of the Federal Republic of Somalia, and H.E. Wang Yu, Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to the Federal Republic of Somalia.

The new arrangement is expected to unlock substantial opportunities for Somalia's fisheries sector by providing preferential access to one of the world's largest consumer markets. It is anticipated to boost exports of high-quality Somali fish and seafood products, increase foreign exchange earnings, and create employment opportunities throughout the fisheries value chain.

Officials also noted that the agreement is expected to encourage greater investment in fish processing facilities, cold-chain infrastructure, and other value-added industries, strengthening the competitiveness and sustainability of Somalia's fisheries sector.

Speaking on the significance of the agreement, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to expanding economic cooperation and promoting mutually beneficial trade. The initiative reflects the growing partnership between Somalia and China and their shared vision of supporting sustainable economic development and improving the livelihoods of Somali fishing communities.

The duty-free market access agreement represents a major step forward in advancing Somalia's blue economy strategy, positioning the country's fisheries sector for increased growth, international competitiveness, and long-term sustainable development.