Chinese Fishing Boats Defy Ban, Encroach on Japanese Waters

Chinese fishing vessels have been encroaching on the waters off Japan despite a Chinese ban on Japanese seafood imports. This ongoing activity has intensified competition and pressurized Japanese fishermen given the rich fishing grounds near Sanriku and Hokkaido.

Chinese fishing boats have been active near Japan's coastline despite a ban on Japanese seafood products in China, according to a report from Nikkei Asia. This ban was implemented after Japan began releasing treated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the sea a year ago. The presence of Chinese vessels has pressured Japanese fishermen to abandon their fishing grounds.

Over the years, the waters off Sanriku have seen an influx of Chinese fishing vessels. These waters, where the warm Kuroshio and cold Oyashio currents meet, are considered prime fishing spots. A Japanese fisherman recounted an incident involving a threatening Chinese boat using fireworks near Sanriku, underscoring the intense competition for fishing resources.

The fishing grounds are crucial for local Japanese fishermen, especially given the year-round availability of various fish species. Competition has escalated as Japanese and Chinese vessels vie for these rich resources. Despite the Chinese government's ban on Japanese seafood imports, citing health concerns, the number of Chinese fishing vessels in Japanese waters has not decreased. Data reveals that while Chinese vessel activity was negligible until 2021, it spiked significantly in 2022, with around 50 vessels operating daily off Sanriku.

(With inputs from agencies.)