The Ministry of Agriculture fined two Chinese-flagged vessels with penalties exceeding $2.7 billion for operating illegally within the Argentine Exclusive Economic Zone
The national government deepened its policy of zero tolerance against illegal fishing by sanctioning two Chinese-flagged vessels that were detected operating within the Argentine Exclusive Economic Zone (ZEEA). The measure aims to reinforce the defense of sovereignty over maritime resources and protect the sustainability of fishing activities.
The vessels "BAO FENG" and "BAO WIN", belonging to the same company from the People's Republic of China, were detected by the Secretariat of Agriculture, Livestock, and Fisheries of the Ministry of Economy while conducting fishing activities within waters under Argentine jurisdiction.
Million-dollar fines for illegally operating in Argentine waters
As a consequence of the infraction, national authorities imposed fines exceeding 2.7 billion pesos, equivalent to USD 1,820,950, imposing a sanction of one million fishing units (UP) for each of the involved vessels.
The early detection allowed for swift action and advancement with the sanctions provided by current legislation for this type of crime, as part of a strategy aimed at discouraging the illegal entry of foreign fleets into the Argentine Exclusive Economic Zone.
Million-dollar fines for operating illegally in Argentine waters
The Government reaffirms the zero tolerance policy against illegal fishing
From the Ministry of Economy, it was highlighted that these measures are part of the policy promoted by the national government to combat illegal fishing, an activity that generates significant economic losses and jeopardizes the conservation of Argentine fishing resources.
In addition to protecting national productive activity, the sanctions aim to preserve the sustainability of marine ecosystems and ensure that the exploitation of resources is carried out in accordance with Argentine and international regulations.
With these types of actions, the Government reaffirms its commitment to the defense of national sovereignty in the South Atlantic, strengthening controls over foreign vessels attempting to operate illegally within the Argentine Exclusive Economic Zone and tightening the consequences for those who violate current legislation.
