December 27, 2024

 

China's fisheries law revision targets sustainable development and resource conservation

A draft revision to China's fisheries law has been submitted to the Standing Committee of the 14th National People's Congress, aiming to balance the growth of the aquaculture and fishing industries with the conservation of marine resources.

 

The draft, presented during the 13th session of the committee, seeks to improve the quality of the fisheries sector while promoting sustainable practices. Initially enacted in 1986, the fisheries law has played a role in protecting fishery resources and safeguarding farmers' rights. However, Wang Xiang, spokesperson for the Legislative Affairs Commission of the NPC Standing Committee, stated that updates are necessary to meet the sector's evolving demands.

 

The revised draft comprises seven chapters and 88 articles. It addresses aquaculture practices, fishing regulations, resource conservation and enhanced oversight measures, according to Han Jun, China's Minister of Agriculture and Rural Affairs.

 

Key proposals include increased support for environmentally friendly aquaculture practices, such as ecological farming. The draft also includes protections for aquaculture zones and tidal flats, as well as compensation for farmers whose licenses are reclaimed early for public interest projects.

 

Stricter safety measures for aquaculture feed and medications are among the proposed changes. Fishing capacity and methods would face tighter controls, with catch volumes adjusted to match resource availability. Additionally, fishing vessels would be restricted from operating beyond certified navigation areas.

 

Ministry data shows a 42% drop in illegal fishing cases handled by agricultural authorities in the first three quarters of the year. During the same period, public security officials arrested 8,579 individuals in connection with organised illegal fishing, reflecting a 38 percent year-on-year increase.

 

The draft introduces stronger protections for key fishing waters and proposes the establishment of a national aquatic germplasm resource bank and a catalogue of protected species. It also calls for stricter oversight of aquatic resource imports and exports and tougher enforcement of seasonal and regional fishing bans.

 

China recently completed its first nationwide survey of aquatic germplasm resources. The survey identified 857 distinct types, rich in genetic diversity and crucial for breeding new aquatic species, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs' Bureau of Fisheries.

 

A new chapter in the draft focuses on supervision and enforcement. It defines the responsibilities of fishery law enforcement and maritime police agencies, introducing measures for inspections, port management and credit record-keeping for fishery enterprises.

 

-      China Daily