The vibrant waters of the South China Sea are once again bustling with activity as over 100 fishing vessels set sail this Friday, marking the start of the new fishing season following the annual summer moratorium.
This year's summer fishing break spanned from May 1 to August 16, maintaining a nationwide suspension since 1995. The moratorium covers the Bohai Sea, the Yellow Sea, the East China Sea, and a portion of the South China Sea. Established to safeguard the marine environment and preserve fishery resources, this period is crucial for the long-term sustainability of the region's fishing industry.
\"The summer fishing moratorium makes the ecosystem more stable and robust, which plays a significant role in long-term development,\" stated Hu Zhenyu, director of Sustainable Development and Blue Economy at the China Development Institute.
Hu further emphasized, \"Additionally, the recovery of marine resources is relatively fast, which positively impacts the healthy development of our fisheries.\"
The resumption of fishing activities not only boosts the local economy but also underscores the importance of sustainable fishing practices. As the season progresses, stakeholders remain committed to balancing economic growth with environmental preservation, ensuring that the South China Sea remains a thriving habitat for marine life and a vital resource for generations to come.
Reference(s):
South China Sea resumes fishing after three-month moratorium
cgtn.com
