CHINA
China is a quickly developing nation that is increasing its demand of fish as its economy expands. With a coastline of about 18,000 km and a huge fish demand, it is an important country to consider when looking at the world's fisheries. China itself has recognized the issue of the world's declining fish populations and has accordingly established legal management systems for marine resource protection. With more than 108 natural reserves that total up to more than 7.69 million hectares and principles such as "conservation first, appropriate exploitation and sustainable development", it seems as if the country is well on its way to reaching sustainability. However, the problem arises when the efficiency of the system management is analyzed. With each department and governmental level having its own structure and laws, there is often competition, fragmentation, miscommunication, and general inefficiency. Similarly, lack of funds allow for minimal research and poor management. As the country continues to develop and expand, the demand for fish will increase as well. In order to prevent a complete fishing collapse in the near future, it is necessary to restructure the management of fishing reserves, analyze the flaws in the current political system, and increase funding to support research and management.
Citation:
1. Information Office of the State Council Of the People's Republic of China, The Development of China's Marine Programs, May 1998, Beijing
2. Liu Yan, Qiu Jun, Problems and possible solutions of our country's marine reserves, National Oceanic Administration Institute of Marine Development Strategy
3. Xinhua General News Service, China opens marine life biodiversity pretection center, October 11, 2006
4. Guifang Xue, China And International Fisheries Law And Policy, 2005