Somalia targets China seafood exports after zero-tariff policy opens market

Wednesday April 29, 2026

Mogadishu (AX) — Somalia is poised to widen its seafood exports after China unveiled a zero-tariff policy for imports from 53 African countries, a move that could reshape the country’s fisheries sector and give a lift to economic growth.

The policy, which takes effect on May 1, will allow Somali marine products to enter Chinese markets duty-free, removing a major obstacle that has long held back direct trade.

Fisheries Minister Ahmed Hassan Aden said the arrangement opens a direct route to one of the world’s largest consumer markets, replacing the indirect channels that previously depended on third-party countries.

“The Chinese government has guaranteed that all exports, including our marine resources, will enter the market duty-free,” he said, adding that the move is expected to draw investment and increase production.

With Africa’s longest mainland coastline stretching along the Indian Ocean, Somalia has long been viewed as a country with vast but underused fisheries potential. Officials say the new policy could speed up work to develop the “blue economy” and expand export volumes.

At Mogadishu’s main fish market, traders and fishermen say catches of tuna, mackerel and lobster are already strong, but weak cold storage capacity and limited export infrastructure have slowed the industry’s growth.

Mohamed Hyder, a fisherman based in Hamar Weyne, said output is highest between October and April, but rough weather and insufficient equipment cut into production for the rest of the year.

“To maintain this volume year-round, we need more advanced, motorized vessels,” he said.

Industry figures say access to foreign markets is essential. Kamal Maki Aweys said the absence of large-scale storage and export facilities has left fishermen relying on local sales, reducing their earnings.

“With proper access to global markets, daily yields could scale from hundreds to thousands of kilograms,” he said, calling China’s policy a “major breakthrough.”

The government says it is focusing on investment in cold storage, logistics and port infrastructure to support export growth, while also urging greater private sector involvement.