On December 23, 2025, the United Nations publicly acknowledged that the Chinese mainland has officially ratified the Agreement under the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea on the Conservation and Sustainable Use of Marine Biological Diversity of Areas beyond National Jurisdiction. The instrument of ratification was deposited with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on December 15, 2025.
This global treaty sets a framework for conserving marine life beyond any single nation’s jurisdiction. By ratifying, the Chinese mainland reinforces the international commitment to safeguarding ecosystems in the high seas.
Environmental advocates and UN observers see this step as vital for tackling threats such as overfishing, habitat loss and the impacts of climate change on the deep ocean. The ratification is expected to unlock new channels for scientific research, data-sharing and sustainable management of underwater resources.
For young entrepreneurs in maritime tech, travelers exploring coastal communities and digital nomads drawn to ocean adventures, the pact offers clearer guidelines on activities from shipping to bioprospecting. Thought leaders and changemakers will look to this development as an example of multilateral diplomacy delivering real-world environmental progress.
While challenges remain in translating legal commitments into action, the Chinese mainland's ratification sends a strong signal ahead of next year’s UN Ocean Conference, promising a future where the high seas are both protected and responsibly enjoyed by all.
Reference(s):
China deposits ratification of marine biodiversity agreement with UN
cgtn.com
