China’s Annual Fishing Ban in the East Sea: A Violation of Vietnam’s Sovereignty?

During a recent press conference, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated that China’s fishing ban in the East Sea is a violation of Vietnam’s sovereignty in the Hoang Sa archipelago. The ban not only undermines Vietnam’s rights and jurisdiction over its exclusive economic zone but also infringes upon its sovereignty in the Paracel Islands.

Ms. Hang emphasized that Vietnam has consistently opposed China’s fishing ban in the East Sea. She reiterated Vietnam’s request for China to respect its sovereignty over the Hoang Sa archipelago and its rights and jurisdiction over its waters. The goal is to maintain peace, stability, and order in the region.

Reports have emerged that Chinese officials have issued an “annual fishing ban” covering areas from the 12th parallel to the north of Taiwan island, including the Hoang Sa archipelago. This practice has been met with criticism from Vietnam and other countries affected by the ban.

China’s unilateral imposition of an annual fishing ban on fishermen from other countries is a recurring issue. Despite plans by China to strengthen supervision and penalize those who violate the ban, it remains a contentious issue between China and neighboring countries.