VALLETTA, Nov. 5 (Xinhua) — The government of Malta has stated that the Malta-China agreement on exporting bluefin tuna presents new opportunities for Maltese tuna producers to enter the Chinese market.
“We are pleased to announce that Maltese bluefin tuna will now be exported to China, a massive market with practically unlimited potential,” a press release jointly issued by Malta’s Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ministry, and Agriculture, Fisheries and Animal Rights Ministry stated.
The agreement was signed in Beijing by Minister for Foreign and European Affairs and Trade Ian Borg, who attended the sixth China International Import Expo in Shanghai.
At the expo, Trade Malta, the Malta Food Agency, and Aquaculture Resources Limited have established a pavilion to showcase various seafood and other attractions of the island country.
According to the press release, this agreement will open up new possibilities for the tuna industry to continue being a vital part of Malta’s economy for exports.
The Federation of Maltese Aquaculture Producers (FMAP) stated in a press release that China’s acceptance of Maltese aquaculture products validates the industry’s adherence to regulatory standards and rigorous testing.
The FMAP and Aquaculture Resources Limited also praised the agreement, indicating that Malta’s clean seas, well-regulated fish farms, and compliance with European Union and international standards meet Beijing’s insistence on high quality.
The Maltese authorities noted that the agreement was the result of two years of efforts by the government and local industry. The federation described the entrance of Maltese tuna into the vast Chinese market as a significant accomplishment.
