China is pivotal to the ocean’s future

Authors: Andrew F. Johnson and Susanna Lidstrom

Since the 1980s, China has developed into the most important player in global capture fisheries; the country now catches about 15% of the global total. As scientists and environmental groups called for an end to harmful fishing subsidies, China spent US$5.89 billion in 2018—more than twice that of the European Union—on subsidies that increase fisheries capacity. However, China has indicated a willingness to make commitments that would move the nation toward a more sustainable path. We call on the country to take these steps. Without China’s action, attaining international fisheries sustainability will be unachievable.