On Saturday, December 27, 2025, lawmakers in mainland China voted to adopt major revisions to the Fisheries Law, aiming to power up sustainable practices in the fishing sector 🌊🐟.
Key updates include:
- Eco-friendly aquaculture: Encouraging organizations and individuals to scientifically use suitable waters and tidal flats for fish farming, backing resource-saving, green, and quality-first methods 🌱.
- Stricter harvesting rules: Tighter controls on fishing limits and seasons to prevent overfishing.
- Better resource protection: Boosted collection and preservation of aquatic germplasm (the genetic 'building blocks' of marine life) and bans on fishing in protected zones.
- Stronger supervision: Enhanced monitoring and enforcement to keep the new rules in check.
The revised law will take effect on May 1, 2026, giving fishers and fish-tech startups time to adapt. It’s the first major overhaul since the law came into force in 1986.
For young entrepreneurs and eco-warriors across South and Southeast Asia—think shrimp farms in Thailand, tilapia ponds in the Philippines, or Kerala’s fish hatcheries—this shift signals a global push towards responsible seafood and tech-driven aquaculture. Stay tuned for more updates as the May 2026 deadline approaches! ✨
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
