Argentina Strengthens Naval Patrols Against Foreign Fishing Intrusions
Argentina has initiated naval patrols to counteract incursions by foreign fishing fleets, particularly from China, focusing on approximately 400 vessels suspected of illegal fishing. The situation escalates alongside agreements with companies like Hongdong Fisheries, raising concerns about resource management and environmental impact. Argentina’s Defense Ministry emphasizes the protection of its maritime rights amid these tensions.
Argentina is actively deploying naval patrols to safeguard its maritime borders against intrusions by foreign fishing fleets, particularly those from China. The navy has initiated operations to deter illegal fishing activities, focusing on approximately 400 vessels suspected of infringing upon Argentina’s Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ). Many of these vessels are believed to be evading detection by disabling their tracking systems while pursuing lucrative fishing grounds, notably during the crucial shortfin squid season valued at $2 billion.
To enforce these patrols, Argentina has dispatched two aircraft and two corvettes specifically tasked with monitoring these foreign vessels. The situation has previously escalated, as seen in 2016 when the Argentine Coast Guard sank a Chinese trawler for illegal fishing within its waters. The influx of fleets from countries such as Taiwan, South Korea, and Spain exacerbates tensions surrounding maritime resource management in the region.
Beyond the immediate issue of illegal fishing, China is exploring ways to extend its maritime presence legally, often by collaborating with local fishermen or utilizing foreign-flagged vessels to avoid regulatory scrutiny. Recent investigations by the Argentine nonprofit Environmental Policy Circle uncovered that ten Chinese vessels were operating without proper registration while exporting their catch back to China.
A recent agreement between the province of Santa Cruz in Argentina and the Chinese company Hongdong Fisheries further fuels concerns over foreign exploitation of local resources. Despite the agreement’s lack of official authorization for Hongdong to operate within Argentine waters, it outlines investments in port infrastructure and other facilities, which may facilitate increased foreign fishing activities.
Environmental organizations have voiced warnings that unchecked fishing practices in the South Atlantic could result in the depletion of squid populations, adversely affecting marine ecosystems and tourism. In response, Argentina’s Ministry of Defense has pledged to maintain its monitoring efforts and protect its maritime rights to preserve national resources.
In conclusion, Argentina is reinforcing its maritime defense to combat illegal fishing activities by foreign fleets, particularly from China. The deployment of naval patrols highlights the importance of protecting national resources, especially during high-value fishing seasons. Moreover, concerns over foreign agreements and overfishing underscore the need for continued vigilance and robust enforcement of maritime laws to safeguard ecological and economic interests in the region.
Original Source: san.com
