China's Distant-Water Fishing Fleet: Economic and Military Instrument (osw.waw.pl)

• China's distant-water fishing fleet estimated at 16,000–17,000 vessels, many fishing illegally.
• The fleet receives $7.2–16.5 billion in annual subsidies.
• The fleet serves both food security and military grey-zone objectives.

"China's state-subsidized distant-water fishing fleet officially numbers 2,551 vessels, but independent estimates put it at 16,000–17,000. The fleet engages in illegal fishing, damages marine ecosystems, and serves as a tool for grey-zone operations via the People's Maritime Militia. It undermines food security in Africa and South America, fosters corruption, and fuels anti-China protests. International regulatory efforts are blocked by China."