Mauritanian fishermen raise alarm over Chinese dominance in local waters

Once known for its rich and abundant fisheries, Mauritania’s coastal waters are now facing a crisis. Fifteen years after Chinese company Poly Hon Done Pelagic Fishery signed a 25-year offshore fishing agreement with the Mauritanian government, local fishermen and environmental activists say the deal has led to dwindling fish stocks and a growing threat to their livelihoods and the marine ecosystem. These concerns were highlighted in a recent investigation by Global Voices focused on climate change and environmental impacts.

“Since our authorities made this deal with the Chinese, things have gone to hell,” said one fisherman. “We can spend days at sea and come back empty-handed, because the Chinese have already been there with their fleets.”

Although Mauritania has agreements with other countries, a European Union report found that approximately 80% of the industrial fishing vessels operating off Mauritania’s coast are Chinese. Local fishermen and activists say Chinese boats often fish illegally in waters that have been reserved for local fishermen.

“As long as the Chinese are present in this sector, Mauritanian fishing is at a dead end,” another fisherman warned. “And the consequences will be very serious for the whole country if nothing is done.”

In addition to threatening local livelihoods, marine species like octopus and yellow mullet are reportedly being overfished. Environmental experts caution that the issue could have far-reaching consequences, not just for Mauritania but for the broader Atlantic ecosystem, which is showing signs of declining fish stocks.

Oumy Sène of Greenpeace Afrique issued a statement urging the Mauritanian government to take immediate action to protect its maritime resources.

“The Mauritanian government must act responsibly,” Sène stated. “It needs to protect, manage, and preserve its natural resources—and safeguard the livelihoods of its fishermen, who play a vital role in feeding and supporting the country.”