Economic Minister Mohamed Saeed has indicated that a free trade agreement (FTA) between the Maldives and India could be finalised soon.

Speaking on a TV programme, the minister highlighted that President Dr Mohamed Muizzu and Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi discussed the possibility of an FTA during the president’s recent state visit to India. Both leaders expressed interest in strengthening trade ties, which suggests that an agreement may be reached in the near future.

Minister Saeed also emphasised the government’s focus on securing free trade deals with major global markets to maximise economic benefits for the Maldivian people. He pointed out that a preferential trade agreement with Turkey has already been signed, which will help lower tariffs on imported goods.

Additionally, he noted that the Maldives’ FTA with China allows the duty-free export of 296 types of seafood to the Chinese market, opening up significant trade opportunities.