The South China Sea stands as one of the world's most productive fishing regions, with half of the global fishing vessels navigating its waters. Annually, the fisheries here generate a staggering $100 billion and support the livelihoods of 3.7 million people. Nearly 300 million rely on the protein it provides.
However, like any abundant resource, the South China Sea faces the threat of overfishing. Over the past fifty years, fishing activities have surged dramatically. Indonesia's fishing has increased 73-fold, Vietnam's 62-fold, and the Chinese mainland's 40-fold, according to China's National Institute for South China Sea Studies.
To combat this, China implemented a fishing ban in parts of its sovereign waters in the South China Sea in 1999. This ban is a strategic pause, allowing marine life to replenish. Every year, thousands of Chinese vessels adhere to the ban, returning to ports for safety inspections and giving the sea a chance to recover.
While some neighboring countries, like the Philippines, have expressed discontent, it's important to recognize the broader impact of these measures. The Philippines, grappling with poverty, has seen some fishermen adopt harmful practices like cyanide fishing, which devastates coral reefs and marine ecosystems.
China's commitment to conservation is evident. The quality and quantity of catches off Guangdong have increased by 23% and 200% respectively since the fishing ban's introduction. Additionally, China's efforts extend beyond fishing restrictions. With over 32 nature reserves established for mangrove forests and coral reefs, the marine environment is thriving. Between 2020 and 2023, around 7,000 hectares of mangroves were planted, providing essential habitats for marine species and protecting coastlines.
Balanced sustainability is at the heart of these initiatives. By enforcing fishing bans and expanding natural reserves, China not only supports economic activities but also ensures the long-term health of marine ecosystems. This delicate balance between development and preservation is crucial for sustaining the South China Sea's rich biodiversity for generations to come.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
