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Government and Policy

Shadow Waters: How Bribery And Corruption Enable Chinese Illegal Fishing

BY Steve Biko Wafula · May 24, 2024 02:05 pm

Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing by Chinese vessels has become a pressing global issue, largely due to the systemic bribery and corruption that enable these activities. Despite international laws and regulations designed to protect marine resources, Chinese fishing fleets continue to exploit these waters, often with tacit approval from compromised officials.

The issuance of permits for fishing, particularly in regions plagued by corruption, is a complex and opaque process. In many countries, officials responsible for enforcing fishing regulations are susceptible to bribes. For instance, in Ghana, a culture of corruption pervades the fishing sector, with port authorities, naval personnel, and government observers frequently accepting bribes to turn a blind eye to illegal activities. This pattern is not unique to Ghana but is widespread across many coastal nations where Chinese fleets operate.

Chinese fishing companies often secure these permits through bribery, effectively bypassing legal restrictions. This is particularly prevalent in nations with weak governance structures, where economic aid from China makes local governments reluctant to enforce fishing regulations. For example, in countries like Senegal, officials face a dilemma: enforce fishing laws and risk losing Chinese investment, or ignore violations and continue receiving financial support for infrastructure projects.

The complicity of local coast guards and maritime enforcement agencies is another significant issue. In many cases, these agencies are underfunded and ill-equipped, making them vulnerable to bribery. Reports indicate that Chinese vessels often operate with impunity in these regions, facilitated by payments to local enforcement officers. This undermines the efforts of honest officials and international agencies trying to combat IUU fishing.

Moreover, the Chinese government has been known to exert diplomatic pressure to protect its fishing interests. By leveraging its economic and political influence, China can dissuade nations from taking punitive actions against its fishing fleets. This diplomatic coercion ensures that even when illegal activities are detected, enforcement is lax and inconsistent.

The impact of this illegal fishing is profound. It not only depletes fish stocks, threatening the livelihoods of local fishermen and food security but also damages marine ecosystems. Practices like bottom trawling and the use of destructive fishing gear further exacerbate environmental degradation. Small island nations and coastal communities, which rely heavily on fishing, are particularly vulnerable.

Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach. Strengthening international cooperation and enhancing the capacity of local enforcement agencies are critical steps. The United States, through initiatives like Operation Southern Cross, has been working with South American countries to enhance maritime security and combat IUU fishing. Such collaborations are vital in building the resilience of local authorities against corruption and improving monitoring and enforcement capabilities.

In conclusion, the problem of Chinese IUU fishing is deeply intertwined with issues of bribery and corruption. Tackling it requires robust international cooperation, increased transparency in the issuance of fishing permits, and stronger enforcement mechanisms to hold violators accountable. Only through concerted global efforts can the integrity of marine resources be safeguarded for future generations.

Read Also: Monitoring IUU Fishing In Kenya And Tanzania: Addressing The China Angle

Steve Biko is the CEO OF Soko Directory and the founder of Hidalgo Group of Companies. Steve is currently developing his career in law, finance, entrepreneurship and digital consultancy; and has been implementing consultancy assignments for client organizations comprising of trainings besides capacity building in entrepreneurial matters. He can be reached on: +254 20 510 1124 or Email: info@sokodirectory.com

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