Exploring the management of the pelagic tuna fisheries in China: Evolution, challenges and recommendations

The objective of this article is to analyze the current challenges associated with the management of pelagic tuna fisheries (PTF) in China by examining its evolution, and to provide corresponding recommendations for improvement. Data on tuna catch is presented to illustrate the variations in China's PTF, while content analysis is employed to investigate the regulations, policies and measures related to PTF management. Since 1988, China’s PTF has undergone four distinct periods, marked by two significant transitions: first, a transition from an emphasis on the expansion of fisheries to a more balanced approach between fishery development and resource conservation, and ultimately, a prioritization of sustainable fisheries. Currently, China has implemented four aspects of management measures to supervise the PTF, which include regulating fishing capacity, collecting and reporting fishing data, implementing a Monitoring, Control and Surveillance (MCS) system, and enhancing by-catch management. Nonetheless, China continues to face several emerging challenges in improving PTF management, including a significant shortage of crew members, an inefficient industrial structure, a high frequency of safe and illicit incidents, and the ineffectiveness of the MCS system. It is advisable to standardize the management of foreign crews, establish a comprehensive industry chain, intensify scientific research, and improve crew training, as well as to enhance the effectiveness of the MCS system in order to advance the PTF management in the future. • China's PTF has experienced nearly four decades of rigorous development. • China’s PTF has evolved four distinct periods. • China has implemented a range of management measures to supervise the PTF. • The management of China's PTF has encountered some new challenges. • The regulatory framework governing the PTF should be improved.