In Argentina, minister calls on Chinese fleets to protect country's reputation

Chinese vessels fishing abroad must prioritize their home nation’s international, a senior Chinese official told Chinese fishing crews anchored in Buenos Aires, Argentina on a recent visit. 

Chinese Vice Minister for Agriculture Qu Dong Yu was in Argentina for WTO talks in December when he stopped at vessels owned by Shanghai Fisheries Group, Dalian Hua Feng, and the well-known fishing and seafood distribution conglomerate Da Yang Shi Jia (Ocean Family). The vessels included red shrimp catch-processors and squid liners. 

Companies must protect China’s image but also “give employment” and “stimulate related industries” in countries in which they’re operating, Qu stressed. And Qu told firms they also have to “strictly abide by local laws” and “keep sustainability in mind” – a sign that China is sensitive to criticism leveled at its fishing crews’ behavior in international waters.