Minister of Economic Development and Trade Mohamed Saeed has clarified that the previous administration did not secure a reduction in tariffs on Maldivian fish exports to the United Kingdom, contrary to earlier claims. He made the statement in Parliament while responding to questions regarding the progress of the UK–Maldives Free Trade Agreement (FTA).

During the parliamentary sitting, South Galolhu MP Meekail Ahmed Naseem inquired about the current status of FTA negotiations between the two countries and suggested that the previous government had achieved a reduction in export tariffs.

Minister Saeed explained that discussions on a potential FTA with the United Kingdom began in 2016, following the UK’s departure from the European Union. He noted that the initial correspondence on the matter was sent to the then Minister of Economic Development on 16 October 2016.

Addressing MP Meekail’s claim, the minister clarified that the change in tariff rates was not a result of negotiations between the Maldives and the UK government. He stated that the United Kingdom currently imposes a 20 per cent tariff on Maldivian fish exports, compared to the previous 24 per cent rate that applied before Brexit, adding that these are standard tariffs for countries without preferential trade agreements.

Minister Saeed also dismissed the claim that a free trade agreement between the two nations would come into force this year, emphasising that there is no record within the Ministry of Foreign Affairs confirming such assurances from the UK government.

He reiterated that since President Dr Mohamed Muizzu assumed office, the Administration has prioritised reducing tariffs and securing fair trade conditions for Maldivian exports, particularly in the fisheries sector.