• Argentina has launched naval patrols to deter foreign fishing vessels near its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), amid concerns over illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The move targeted China’s distant-water fleet, which was suspected of entering Argentine waters undetected.
• Argentina’s navy has deployed aircraft and corvettes to monitor 380 fishing vessels — primarily Chinese — operating near the EEZ boundary.
• The patrols aim to protect Argentina’s $2 billion squid industry and prevent resource depletion.

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Argentina has launched naval patrols near its exclusive economic zone (EEZ) to deter foreign fishing vessels. The move follows concerns over illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, particularly in China’s distant-water fleet, the largest in the world.

How is Argentina enforcing maritime regulations?

Argentina’s navy deployed two aircraft, a C-12 Huron and a P-3C Orion, along with two corvettes to conduct surveillance of 380 fishing vessels operating near the EEZ boundary.

Many of these vessels — primarily Chinese — are suspected of switching off tracking systems to enter Argentine waters undetected.

The shortfin squid season, a $2 billion industry, has drawn fleets from China, Taiwan, South Korea and Spain, increasing tensions in the South Atlantic.

Has Argentina confronted illegal fishing before?

Argentina has dealt with multiple incidents of foreign vessels entering its waters illegally.

In 2016, the Argentine coast guard sank a Chinese trawler caught fishing inside the EEZ after it attempted to flee. Since then, authorities have increased surveillance efforts, particularly during peak fishing seasons.

How is China securing access to regional fisheries?

Beyond suspected illegal fishing, China has pursued legal avenues to expand its presence in the region. Chinese companies have partnered with local fishermen or operated under foreign-flagged ships to bypass regulations.

An Argentine nonprofit Environmental Policy Circle report found that at least 10 Chinese vessels operated under unregistered foreign flags, sending their catch back to China while concealing their origins.

Why is a new Argentina-China agreement raising concerns?

A recent letter of intent between Santa Cruz province and Chinese company Hongdong Fisheries raises concerns.

While it does not grant Hongdong Fisheries permission to operate within Argentine waters, it proposes port assistance and infrastructure investments. This includes improvements in five provincial ports, new shipyards and fishing plants.

Experts warned that such agreements could enable greater resource depletion and harm Argentina’s domestic fishing industry.

What are the environmental and economic risks?

Experts warned that continued overfishing in the South Atlantic could pressure squid populations, potentially affecting marine ecosystems and local tourism.

Squid is a key food source for hake, sperm whales, penguins and elephant seals.

What is Argentina’s response moving forward?

Argentina’s Defense Ministry will continue monitoring foreign fishing activity and enforcing maritime regulations.

While long-term patrol frequency remains unclear, officials have reaffirmed their commitment to protecting national waters.