China’s Growing Distant-Water Fishing Industry: Challenges and Strategies
Since the late 2010s, China has become increasingly sensitive to the environmental and socio-economic impacts of its distant-water fishing (DWF) growth, as well as reputational harm from international environmental advocacy. DWF involves countries fishing outside their own territories in other nations’ economic exclusive zones or high seas. This article examines whether China’s rapid DWF expansion is a result of its ambition to develop a “blue economy” and become a maritime power, and discusses the major challenges it faces in curbing this growth.
Provincial Variations in DWF
Not all Chinese coastal provinces are equally enthusiastic about expanding DWF activities. From 2010 to 2020, specific provinces and entities—Liaoning, Shandong, Zhejiang, Fujian, and the China National Agricultural Development Group—played a significant role in boosting China’s DWF. Together, these entities owned 84% of China’s DWF vessels, with their combined horsepower making up 86.6% of all Chinese DWF vessel power. Their combined catches comprised 87% of China’s total DWF weight and 86.8% of its value.
Despite not being initially selected for marine economy development in 2010, Fujian emerged as a leader in this sector, especially in terms of catch volume and efficiency. Fujian’s proactive approach, including additional administrative and budgetary powers, shaped its rapid growth in distant-water fishing.
Proactive Fujian: Leading the Charge
Fujian’s efforts gained momentum when Governor Chen Lei formed a leading small group to apply for marine economy development status. This success in 2011 provided Fujian with additional resources and powers. Subsequently, the provincial government incentivized DWF through various measures, such as vessel renovations and enhanced access to new fishing grounds. The Maritime Silk Road initiative further facilitated Fujian’s DWF expansion.
Between 2012 and 2015, Fujian saw a significant increase in both the number of DWF vessels and the catch volume, rising by 78% and 50%, respectively. These figures exceeded national targets of 15.5% and 18%.
Reducing DWF Growth: Beijing’s Approach
In response to international scrutiny, Beijing has sought to recentralize and tighten control over China’s DWF fleet since 2016. This included implementing a blacklist for IUU fishing vessels and captains, a compliance ranking for DWF companies, and regulatory revisions.
While Fujian outwardly followed Beijing’s policies to limit fleet growth, it shifted strategies to establish a national DWF base on its coast. This “terraqueous infrastructure” aimed to reduce catch turnover time and maximize commercial value, a focus that diverged from environmental concerns.
Information-Gathering Challenges
Delegating administrative and fiscal power to local governments aids in economic performance but can also lead to excessive growth and adverse foreign policy implications. Fujian’s policies prioritized growth over environmental impact, highlighting the need for better oversight.
A performance evaluation report emphasized social and environmental benefits but did not address overcapacity or foreign policy consequences. The 13th Five-Year Plan in 2017 initiated a step toward central control and oversight.
Looking Ahead: Future Directions
China’s 2023 White Paper on DWF reiterates efforts to improve information collection and monitoring. The paper supports dialogue with international NGOs and sustainable fisheries management to address IUU fishing.
The introduction of an international compliance capacity enhancement subsidy in 2021 replaced the DWF fuel subsidy. This new system ties compliance scores to subsidy amounts, further emphasizing the importance of accurate monitoring.
Effective monitoring and transparency are crucial for deterring IUU fishing. Collaboration with international organizations and NGOs should continue to support Beijing’s efforts.
Conclusion
China’s DWF industry has seen significant growth, propelled by both national ambitions and provincial initiatives. As it addresses challenges related to environmental impact and international scrutiny, Beijing must balance economic performance with responsible fishing practices.
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