Argentina Strengthens Naval Patrols Against Illegal Foreign Fishing Activities
Argentina has initiated naval patrols to deter foreign fishing fleets, predominantly from China, due to illegal fishing activities within its maritime borders. The Navy’s deployment includes aircraft and corvettes monitoring approximately 400 vessels suspected of unlawful fishing, particularly during the lucrative squid season. Additionally, recent agreements with foreign companies raise concerns about future fishing operations and environmental impacts.
Argentina has commenced naval patrols in response to increasing encroachments of foreign fishing fleets, primarily from China, infringing upon its maritime borders. The Argentine Navy has deployed two aircraft and two corvettes to safeguard its exclusive economic zone, targeting approximately 400 vessels suspected of engaging in illegal fishing activities.
These foreign vessels, which often disable their tracking systems to evade detection, are attracted by the lucrative shortfin squid season, valued at $2 billion, drawing boats from China, Taiwan, South Korea, and Spain. Illegal fishing has previously resulted in confrontations, including a significant incident in 2016 where Argentina’s Coast Guard sank a Chinese trawler caught fishing unlawfully in its waters.
Beyond illegal activities, China’s attempt to consolidate a legal fishing presence in the region raises additional concerns. Partnerships with local fishermen and the use of foreign-flagged vessels to circumvent regulations have been documented, with a report indicating that 10 Chinese ships operated under unregistered flags to hide their origins while exporting their catch back to China.
Moreover, a recent agreement between the Argentine province of Santa Cruz and Hongdong Fisheries has prompted further apprehensions. Although the letter of intent does not grant formal access to Argentine waters, it discusses providing port assistance and enhancing infrastructure, including improvements for five provincial ports and the establishment of new shipyards and fishing plants.
Environmental organizations have sounded alarms regarding potential overfishing in the South Atlantic, fearing that it could lead to the depletion of squid populations, adversely affecting marine ecosystems and tourism. In light of these developments, Argentina’s Defense Ministry has affirmed its commitment to monitoring the situation and asserting its maritime rights to protect national resources.
The situation surrounding foreign fishing activity in Argentina remains critical, with the government actively deploying naval forces to combat illegal incursions, particularly from Chinese vessels. Growing tensions are exacerbated by agreements that may facilitate foreign involvement in Argentina’s fishing industry. Environmental impacts and the need for resource protection underscore Argentina’s resolve to uphold its maritime sovereignty.
Original Source: san.com
