Beginning Aug. 1, fishing boats that go in operation without
passing a compulsory examination will be confiscated and the owner
will be fined, according to a new regulation released in Beijing
Saturday.
The regulation aims to ensure the safety of fishermen and prevent
environmental pollution.
According to the new rule, fishing boats which should be discarded
but continue fishing will be demolished and the owner will be fined
up to 50,000 yuan (about US$6,250).
The regulation also stipulated the rights and responsibility of
professionals engaged in boat examinations.
(Xinhua News Agency July 6, 2003)