Taiwan's Coast Guard Intensifies Efforts Against Chinese Fishing Violations

Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration is enhancing measures to curb cross-border fishing by Chinese vessels. Recent reports indicate only sporadic violations near Matsu and Kinmen islands. The CGA is actively deploying resources to monitor and expel illegal fishing boats, ensuring maritime safety and sovereignty.

Taiwan's Coast Guard Administration (CGA) officials announced on Sunday an increase in efforts to prevent Chinese fishing boats from operating across borders. According to the Central News Agency (CNA), only sporadic violations have been reported so far, mostly near the outlying Matsu and Kinmen islands.

The CGA stated that all illegal fishing vessels have been expelled and that no violations have been detected, despite concerns following the end of China's three-and-a-half-month fishing moratorium on August 16. Over the past two days, the CGA deployed one ship, 19 boats, 29 vehicles, 74 motorcycles, and 301 personnel to monitor the situation.

The CGA also refuted media claims that Chinese fishing boats were using fake automatic tracking systems (AIS) to pose as Taiwanese vessels. In an operation on August 17, the CGA identified about 20 Chinese fishing boats approximately 20 nautical miles outside the restricted waters of Penghu County, without detecting any Taiwanese vessels or related AIS signals.

Moreover, on July 11, the CGA shadowed four China Coast Guard vessels that entered Taiwan-controlled waters near Kinmen County. The CGA reported that the Chinese vessels left and re-entered restricted waters, prompting the Taiwan Coast Guard to send ships and broadcast warnings. The vessels eventually departed between 12 pm and 1 pm local time.

The CGA emphasized that the China Coast Guard's actions undermine maritime safety and do not promote cross-strait exchanges. Taiwan's Coast Guard vows to maintain the nation's maritime rights and safety.

(With inputs from agencies.)