As the summer fishing moratorium along China’s coast has gradually concluded, a large number of fishing boats have resumed operations, leading to increasingly congested waters where merchant vessels and fishing boats navigate and operate in close proximity. To address the heightened risk of collisions and learn from recent accidents, the Maritime Safety Administration of the People’s Republic of China (MSA) issued the Safety Guidelines for Preventing Collisions between Merchant Vessels and Fishing boats (Example) on September 6, 2025. All shipping enterprises are required to incorporate these guidelines into their safety management systems and ensure strict implementation.

The guidelines emphasize that vessels bound for or passing through Chinese coastal ports shall conduct pre-voyage risk assessments, familiarize themselves with fishing zone distributions, and plan routes scientifically. Before entering areas dense with fishing boats, ships must hold navigation safety meetings, inspect communication and navigation equipment, and ensure key machinery such as the main engine and steering system are fully operational. At least two officers shall remain on the bridge at all times. During navigation, crew members must maintain a sharp lookout, switch to manual steering, keep a distance of over 1 nautical mile from fishing boats when possible, and strengthen watch shifts as needed.

The document specifically highlights high-risk periods, such as right after the fishing ban ends, during nighttime, and in adverse weather conditions. Some fishing boats may not display lights, activate AIS, or show clearly on radar, requiring extra vigilance. Ships should adhere to the principles of “early, large, substantial, and clear” actions when avoiding collisions and use VHF, lights, and sound signals to communicate with fishing boats. In case of a collision, vessels must immediately stop, prioritize life rescue, and report to the nearest maritime safety authority without delay.

The guidelines aim to enhance safety awareness and emergency response capabilities of merchant vessels and fishing boats, ensuring the protection of life and property at sea.