The disguise of flags of convenience, which means incorporating the flag of another nation on ships, has gained momentum recently and raises serious concerns about the sector's economy, environmental preservation, and the country's maritime sovereignty.
Recently, aircraft and vessels of the Argentine Navy detected an alarming number of ships, reaching up to 380 vessels, most of them of Chinese origin operating on the edge of Argentine territorial waters .
Among these vessels, 13 were identified using flags of countries such as Vanuatu and Cameroon, from Oceania and Africa , taking into account that in all cases the commands at the helm of the vessels were of Asian origin.
A report by the Environmental Policy Circle details the case of the Vanuatu-flagged fishing vessel Xinrun 579. Despite operating in Argentine waters and conducting unauthorized fishing activities, the vessel rejected Argentine authorities' request to be boarded for an inspection , resuming its course toward international waters.
Further investigation has revealed that the actual owner of the Xinrun 579 is Xinrun Ocean Vanuatu Co. , a Chinese-owned company, proving that the “Vanuatu flag” is merely a facade .
This cover-up tactic not only demonstrates unethical fishing practices, but also challenges the ability of sovereign states to control and protect their natural resources.
Meanwhile, Chinese companies are acquiring Argentina's fishing fleet , and some reports indicate they already own more than half of the country's squid vessels.
Squid-catching vessels with Chinese names such as Hu Yu 962, Hu Shun Yu 06, Hu Yu 961 and Hu Shun Yu 07 departed from Puerto Belgrano between December and January. However, the vessels were flying the Argentine national flag .
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