<h1>China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement Begins, Boosts Trade and Market Access with Tariff Reductions and Economic Cooperation.</h1> The China-Maldives Free Trade Agreement (CMFTA) took effect on January 1, marking a significant milestone in economic relations between the two nations. The agreement, aimed at reducing tariffs and enhancing market access, is expected to boost trade volumes and create new business opportunities. Key provisions include trade in goods and services, investment protection, and economic cooperation. Maldivian exporters, especially in the fisheries sector, will gain duty-free access to the Chinese market, while China will benefit from reduced tariffs on industrial and agricultural exports to the Maldives. Current trade exceeds USD 700 million, with potential growth to USD 1 billion.