Hundreds of Chinese vessels undertake this journey in search of squid, a vital commodity in the Chinese food chain

The Journey of Chinese Squid Fishing Vessels: From China to the Edge of the Argentine EEZ

CHINA
Friday, November 29, 2024, 18:00 (GMT + 9)

Six Capital Agri-Food Group  Jigging Vessels Embark on Illex Squid Fishing Operations in the  South West Atlantic

Photo: Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd.

On the morning of October 23, 2024, six ocean-going squid fishing vessels operated by Beijing Ocean Shipping Company—part of the Aquatic Products Group of Beijing Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd. (Beijing Capital Agricultural Products Group Co., Ltd. 首农食品集团)—set sail from Penglai Weiyang Port. The vessels, named Jingyuan 601, 608, 616, 618, 626, and 628, carried approximately 120 Chinese crew members as they embarked on a long voyage to the southwest Atlantic high seas, launching a new phase of squid fishing operations.

Photo: Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd.

A Strategic Push for Offshore Fishing

This expedition marks a significant step for Beijing Ocean Shipping Company in advancing China's “going out” strategy, strengthening international fisheries cooperation, and bolstering the competitiveness of the nation’s distant-water fishing industry. The fleet will traverse the Taiwan Strait, the South China Sea, the Strait of Malacca, the Indian Ocean, and South African waters before reaching the fishing grounds in the Atlantic Ocean. The journey spans an estimated 42 days and 12,000 nautical miles.

During their passage, the fleet plans to embark foreign crew members in Singapore, emphasizing international collaboration and resource sharing in the fishing sector.

Photo: Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd.

Farewell Ceremony Highlights

A heartfelt farewell ceremony was held at the port, attended by representatives from the labor union, financial management, and brand marketing departments of Beijing Capital Agricultural Products Group. These leaders extended their best wishes to the crew, emphasizing safety and health amid the challenges of distant-water operations.

“Your safety and well-being must come first. Take care of yourselves as you fulfill this important mission,” the labor union representatives urged.

Photo: Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd.

Stories of Dedication and Optimism

For many crew members, this voyage represents not only a professional challenge but also an opportunity for personal and financial growth. Sun Dianjun, a 59-year-old chef aboard Jingyuan 628, shared his perspective while cradling his two-year-old grandson:

“More than half of the crew are from the same hometown, so we’ll take care of each other and ensure smooth operations. Deep-sea fishing doesn’t just bring good income—it also lets me share high-quality seafood with my family and friends.”

Similarly, Gu Kongmin, captain of one of the vessels, expressed his optimism about the trip:

“I started in this industry at 18, working my way up over 20 years. The support our country gives to distant-water fishing motivates me, and I’m confident the harvests will keep improving.”

Photo: Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd.

Family members of the crew also shared mixed emotions during the send-off. A wife from Zhaoyuan City, who came to bid farewell to her husband, noted:

“Every time he leaves, I worry, but I trust his skills and the strong teamwork of the fleet. This time, I’m seeing him off with a smile because I know they’ll succeed together.”

Long-Term Operations and Ambitious Goals

As the vessels departed, the crew waved goodbye to their families and friends, leaving behind fond memories and carrying high hopes for the journey ahead. The Jingyuan 601, 608, 626, and 628 will remain at sea for two years, returning to China in May or June 2026 after completing the illex squid season in the South Atlantic and the giant squid (dosidicus gigas) season in the South Pacific.

Photo: Shounong Food Group Co., Ltd.

Meanwhile, the Jingyuan 616 and 618 will operate for six months, returning to China in early 2025 before transitioning to the North Pacific for saury fishing operations.

The fleet’s departure symbolizes not just an expansion of fishing operations but a broader commitment to sustainable and competitive growth in the global seafood industry. As the waves carried the ships away, they echoed the determination and resilience of those aboard—ready to face the challenges of distant waters with hope and resolve.

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