China is stepping up its engagement in international fisheries governance as global concerns over the sustainability of fishery resources intensify. According to the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) of the United Nations’ recent report, “The State of World Fisheries and Aquaculture 2024—Blue Transformation in Action,” released on June 7, global capture fisheries production remains stable, but the sustainability of fishery resources is a pressing issue.
In 2022, world capture fisheries produced 92.3 million tonnes, with 79.7 million tonnes of aquatic animals caught in marine areas. However, the proportion of marine stocks fished within biologically sustainable levels decreased to 62.3 percent in 2021, which is 2.3 percent lower than in 2019. Overfishing, illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, marine environmental pollution, and climate change pose significant threats to the sustainable use of global fishery resources and the health of marine ecosystems.
Global Sustainability Challenges
The decline in sustainable fish stocks highlights the urgent need for coordinated international efforts to manage and preserve marine resources. The FAO report underscores that immediate action is required to address overfishing and to implement effective conservation measures.
China’s Growing Role
China’s distant-water fisheries began in 1985, and over the past three decades, the nation has become one of the world’s leading participants in distant-water fishing. In 2022, China accounted for 14.3 percent of global capture fisheries production, becoming the top capture producer. This significant involvement places China in a pivotal position to influence international fisheries governance and promote sustainable practices.
Recognizing the global concerns, China is actively participating in international dialogues and agreements aimed at combating IUU fishing and promoting sustainable fisheries management. The nation is working alongside other countries and international organizations to strengthen regulations, share data, and enhance monitoring and enforcement mechanisms.
Collaborative Efforts for Sustainable Fisheries
China’s efforts include investing in advanced fishing technologies that reduce bycatch and minimize environmental impact. The country is also focusing on capacity building and training for its fisheries workforce to ensure adherence to international standards and best practices.
Moreover, China is contributing to global initiatives addressing marine environmental pollution and the effects of climate change on marine life. By supporting research and innovation in sustainable aquaculture and marine conservation, China aims to balance its role as a major fishing nation with the responsibility of safeguarding marine ecosystems for future generations.
Looking Ahead
As global challenges to fishery sustainability continue to grow, China’s active engagement in international fisheries governance is a positive step toward achieving the goals outlined by the FAO. Collaborative efforts and shared commitment among nations are essential to ensure the long-term health and productivity of the world’s oceans.
China’s participation demonstrates the increasing recognition among major fishing nations of the necessity to adopt sustainable practices. Continued dialogue and cooperation will be key to addressing the complex issues facing global fisheries and to promoting a blue transformation that benefits all.
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China actively engages in international fisheries governance
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