China Joins FAO's PSMA to Combat Illegal Fishing, Boosting Global Efforts
China has officially joined the FAO Agreement on Port State Measures to Prevent, Deter and Eliminate Illegal, Unreported and Unregulated Fishing (PSMA), boosting the total number of participating countries to 108. This significant move by the world's largest producer of marine capture fisheries is set to strengthen global efforts against unlawful fishing practices.
The PSMA, an international agreement aimed at combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing through strict port controls worldwide, has seen a notable increase in support. Before China's inclusion, Ukraine and Saudi Arabia were the latest additions in March 2025. China's decision to join, accounting for nearly 15 percent of global marine capture production, is crucial in promoting sustainable fishing practices.
Der Leiter der Ernährungs- und Landwirtschaftsorganisation der Vereinten Nationen (FAO), Qu Dongyu, hailed China's accession as a major turning point. He highlighted China's significant contribution to the global fight against IUU fishing, given its status as a leading economic power and one of the world's largest fishing nations. This move is expected to bolster international cooperation and encourage more nations to join the PSMA.
With China's accession, the PSMA now comprises 108 countries, including the European Union. This expansion enhances the agreement's effectiveness and sends a strong signal to other nations, encouraging them to join the global effort against IUU fishing. China's support, as the world's largest producer of marine capture fisheries, is vital in promoting sustainable fishing practices and combating unlawful activities at sea.
