Patrol Vessel Hsun Hu No. 7 Departs for Pacific High Seas Mission: Kuan Pi-Ling Emphasizes Taiwan's Role in Protecting Fishing Rights and Combating IUU Fishing

The Coast Guard Administration (CGA) of the Ocean Affairs Council (OAC) launched its second 2026 high seas patrol mission today (3rd), as the patrol vessel "Hsun Hu No. 7" departed from Kaohsiung Port to conduct fisheries surveillance operations in the Pacific high seas. OAC Chairperson Kuan Pi-Ling and Vice Chairperson and CGA Director-General Chang Chung-Lung boarded the vessel to encourage the crew, urging the coast guard team to continue protecting Taiwan's distant-water fishing rights and fulfilling international responsibilities. Chairperson Kuan emphasized that through this patrol mission, Taiwan can deepen cooperation with friendly nations and demonstrate its critical role in safeguarding marine sustainability.

According to the OAC, to prevent the depletion of high seas fisheries resources and combat Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing, the CGA has conducted two to three distant-water patrol missions annually since its establishment in 2000, in coordination with the Fisheries Agency of the Ministry of Agriculture. These routine patrols protect Taiwan's distant-water fishing interests while fulfilling international fisheries management obligations.

Director-General Chang stated that high seas patrols carry three core missions: protecting Taiwan's fishing rights, fulfilling international obligations, and demonstrating humanitarian spirit. He urged all personnel to strictly adhere to international norms during operations, showcasing professional law enforcement capabilities to enhance Taiwan's visibility in global ocean governance.

Chairperson Kuan noted that distant-water patrols serve multiple functions beyond fisheries inspection, including international exchange, humanitarian assistance, marine resource conservation, and maritime security. Each boarding inspection, scientific sampling, and patrol operation contributes vital data on maritime safety and seafood security, forming a foundation for deeper cooperation with partner nations. She encouraged the crew to leverage this mission to represent Taiwan with professionalism and passion, expanding international collaboration.

This mission is led by two squad leaders with over 30 years of coast guard experience, guiding a team of seasoned and new personnel, reflecting the CGA's commitment to knowledge transfer and teamwork. As the voyage spans Father's Day and the Mid-Autumn Festival, crew members must once again sacrifice time with their families. Chairperson Kuan expressed deep respect and gratitude to all coast guard personnel and their families for their dedication to safeguarding national maritime security and fishermen's rights.

Photo credit: Ocean Affairs Council