China pledges support for international efforts against IUU fishing and rolls out digital tools to monitor suspicious vessels
China has officially joined the Port State Measures Agreement (PSMA), a key treaty under the UN Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) to fight illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This treaty is the first binding international agreement that targets illegal fishing by blocking IUU vessels from using ports to land or sell their catch.
China’s accession is a major step. As the world’s largest seafood producer and operator of the biggest distant-water fishing fleet, China’s involvement gives new strength to global enforcement efforts. The PSMA now has over 82 member states, all working to stop IUU vessels from entering ports and markets.
A Costly Global Threat
IUU fishing causes serious damage. The FAO estimates that it takes up to 26 million tonnes of fish from the ocean each year—about 15% of the global catch. It harms marine life, threatens food security, and robs coastal communities of income.
The PSMA works by allowing port states to inspect foreign fishing vessels, verify their legal status, and deny access if they are linked to illegal activity. In addition, countries also share data and coordinate enforcement.
China’s Role and Responsibility
China’s participation is significant. For years, its distant-water fleet has faced criticism over illegal practices in foreign waters. Without China’s cooperation, global efforts to end IUU fishing were weakened.
Now, by joining the PSMA, China is taking a clear step toward better oversight. FAO Director-General QU Dongyu called the move a “milestone” and said China’s leadership could encourage other countries to act.
High-Tech Tools to Watch the Seas implemented by China
Alongside its pledge, China is adopting new tracking technologies. These include software that uses satellite data, AIS signals, and artificial intelligence to monitor ship movements.
The tools help detect unusual behaviors—such as ships turning off their trackers, drifting in restricted areas, or changing course without reason. Authorities can then flag these vessels for inspection at port.
China’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Affairs says this system will support national enforcement and be linked to international databases. This will make it harder for illegal vessels to avoid detection.
Global Impacts and Reactions
China’s move comes as many countries and NGOs have raised concerns about the impact of its fishing fleet on vulnerable regions. Joining the PSMA shows a shift toward greater cooperation and transparency.
Tony Long, CEO of Global Fishing Watch, welcomed the decision. “With real-time tracking and better data sharing, we can hold illegal fishers accountable,” he said. “China’s role could be a game-changer.”
Implementation Is Key
Experts agree: the challenge now is enforcement. China must train its port officials, inspect vessels thoroughly, and report findings openly. Success will also depend on sharing data with other PSMA members and closing legal loopholes that allow ships to hide behind fake identities.
IUU vessels often change flags, names, or registration to avoid detection. Stronger vessel identification and licensing rules are needed, along with more international cooperation.
Could China be A Model for Others?
If China fully implements these measures, it could set an example for other fishing powers not yet in the agreement. It could also open doors for new partnerships in marine conservation—on overfishing, bycatch, and protecting endangered species.
In conclusion, with oceans under threat from climate change and overuse, global action is urgent. China’s step toward transparency and modern monitoring could help shift the tide in the fight against illegal fishing.