Somalia, China sign duty-free fishery trade deal

Somalia has secured duty-free access for its fishery products to the Chinese market after signing a new trade agreement with China, a move expected to increase exports, support the country’s blue economy and create new jobs across the fisheries sector.

The agreement was signed in Mogadishu by Somalia’s Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Ahmed Hassan Aden, and Chinese Ambassador to Somalia Wang Yu. The signing marks a new step in trade relations between the two countries as Somalia seeks to expand access to international markets for its seafood products.

According to Somalia’s Ministry of Fisheries, the agreement is expected to increase fish exports while supporting the development of the blue economy and creating employment opportunities across the fisheries value chain. The ministry said the deal will also help strengthen economic cooperation between Somalia and China.

Speaking after the signing, Ahmed said the agreement marks an important moment for Somalia’s fisheries sector because local seafood products will now enter the Chinese market without being subjected to import duties. “This is the first time that Somali fishery products have officially gained access to the Chinese market by benefiting from duty-free access, which is expected to increase competitiveness and export opportunities for Somali fishermen and traders,” the minister said.