Japan and China are facing renewed maritime tensions after Japanese authorities seized a Chinese fishing vessel and detained its captain inside Japan’s exclusive economic zone near Nagasaki.
Japan’s fisheries agency said the boat ignored an order to stop for inspection and attempted to flee, prompting the arrest of the 47 year old captain.
Beijing has urged Tokyo to safeguard the rights of Chinese crew members after Japan seized a Chinese fishing boat and arrested its skipper.
— CGTN Europe (@CGTNEurope) February 13, 2026
A foreign ministry spokesman said Japan should respect the China-Japan fisheries agreement, enforce the law fairly and ensure the safety… pic.twitter.com/66igB0uP0S
Beijing responded by urging Japan to protect the rights and safety of Chinese crew members and to enforce the law fairly under the bilateral fisheries agreement. China’s foreign ministry said it requires its fishermen to follow regulations while defending their lawful interests.
Japanese authorities have seized a Chinese fishing boat and arrested its captain for allegedly fleeing inspection while within Japan's exclusive economic zone near Nagasaki in southwest Japan, a government spokesperson said https://t.co/jwWsgCTegR pic.twitter.com/3l2nCfeTaS
— Reuters (@Reuters) February 13, 2026
Tokyo said the action was necessary to prevent illegal fishing and confirmed the vessel was capable of large scale catches. Officials said the investigation is ongoing.
The incident comes amid already strained ties between China and Japan over security issues and past fishing disputes. Both sides operate under a long standing fisheries accord meant to manage activity and reduce conflict.
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TIPP Staff
