Peru Strengthens Fight Against IUU Fishing with Armed Forces
Peru has intensified its crackdown on illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, particularly targeting Chinese fleets accused of depleting marine resources. In a decisive move, the Peruvian government authorized the Armed Forces to use “legitimate force” to combat illicit fishing operations in national waters.
Severe Impact on Peru’s fishing industry
2024 was a particularly difficult year for Peru’s fishing sector, with the National Society of Artisanal Fisheries of Peru (SONAPESCAL) calling it the worst crisis in decades. According to the Andrés Bello Foundation, a Latin American research center on China, illegal fishing by Chinese vessels significantly reduced squid exports, causing substantial financial losses for local fishers. The giant squid industry, crucial to the Peruvian economy, has been severely affected, leading to the shutdown of processing plants and endangering the livelihoods of around 20,000 fishermen and their families.
China operates the world’s largest distant water fishing fleet, with over 17,000 vessels. Between 400 and 600 of these vessels frequently hover near the exclusive economic zones (EEZs) of Peru, Chile, Ecuador, Argentina, and Uruguay, often crossing illegally into territorial waters. Reports indicate that these fleets have been plundering marine resources and challenging local enforcement efforts.
New Measures to strengthen Maritime Security
To combat Chinese illegal fishing, Peru introduced key initiatives in late 2024. In October, the Peruvian Congress approved a law allowing the National Maritime Authority (Dicapi), under the oversight of the Peruvian Armed Forces, to enforce fishing regulations with force if necessary. This measure aims to detect and deter unauthorized foreign vessels operating within Peru’s maritime territory.
Additionally, the Peruvian government enacted a legislative decree in September, mandating stricter control over foreign-flagged fishing vessels. Under the new regulations, all such vessels must install the Satellite Tracking System for Fishing Vessels (SISESAT), managed by the Peruvian Navy. This system is integrated into the Foreign Trade Single Window (VUCE), a digital platform that facilitates trade compliance and monitoring.
“We seek to ensure that any foreign vessel entering Peruvian waters, whether for maintenance, crew changes, or provisions, adheres to strict fishing regulations,” stated Minister of Production Sergio González. The Ministry of Production (PRODUCE) oversees fishing activities and leads the nation’s efforts against IUU fishing.
In November, PRODUCE and the Peruvian Navy signed an agreement to acquire two state-of-the-art patrol boats to strengthen maritime security. These vessels will enhance surveillance and enforcement operations, targeting illegal fishing, smuggling, and other maritime crimes.
Global Fishing Watch commended Peru’s initiatives, stating that coordinated government efforts are essential for better monitoring and conservation of marine resources. With these new policies and enforcement capabilities, Peru is taking a firm stance in defending its waters from illegal exploitation.
