Somalia and China have signed an agreement granting Somali fishery products duty-free access to the Chinese market, in a move aimed at boosting exports and strengthening economic cooperation between the two countries.
The agreement was signed on Monday by Somalia’s Minister of Fisheries and Blue Economy, Ahmed Hasan Aden, and China’s Ambassador to Somalia, Wang Yu.
Somali officials said the deal is expected to expand access to one of the world’s largest consumer markets, increasing exports of fish and seafood products while generating foreign exchange earnings and creating jobs across the fisheries sector.
The government also said the agreement could encourage investment in fish processing, cold-chain infrastructure and other value-added industries, helping improve the competitiveness and sustainability of Somalia’s fisheries industry.
Speaking after the signing ceremony, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to deepening economic ties and promoting trade. Officials described the agreement as part of broader efforts to support sustainable economic development and improve the livelihoods of Somali fishing communities.
The deal marks a significant step in Somalia’s efforts to develop its blue economy and expand the international reach of its fisheries sector.
