The United States has a notorious track record in illegal fishing, marine resource depletion and ocean pollution, Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun said at a press briefing in Beijing on Friday.
Guo made the statement while dismissing a report by the United States that accused China of "illegal fishing," saying that the claims rest solely on U.S. domestic laws, contradict facts and lack grounding under international law.
"These 'certifications' announced by the U.S. pursuant to its domestic law has neither factual evidence nor basis in international law. It is stark political manipulation with the malicious aim of thwarting the development of China's distant water fishing industry. We deplore and reject this move," said Guo.
"China is a responsible fishing nation with a zero-tolerance policy for illegal fishing. With sound legislation, strict enforcement and rigorous judicial oversight, it has ranked among the top in compliance assessments of regional fisheries management organizations. In April 2025, China officially acceded to the Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing. It has been playing an active role in global fisheries governance and marine fishery resources protection," he said.
"In contrast, the U.S. has a deplorable track record in illegal fishing, marine resource depletion and ocean pollution. It has been overfishing tuna beyond quotas in the Western and Central Pacific Ocean, with numerous cases of violations identified by the Inter-American Tropical Tuna Commission. What the U.S. should do is reflect on itself rather than smear others. China stands ready to work with all parties to improve global fisheries governance, uphold international maritime order, and contribute to conservation and sustainable use of marine resources through concrete actions," said Guo.
Spokesman accuses U.S. of having notorious record on illegal fishing
Spokesman accuses U.S. of having notorious record on illegal fishing
