China's Aquaculture Expansion Raises Concerns Over Ocean Resource Depletion
In 2025, Spain imported over 141 million euros worth of seafood from China, underscoring the rapid growth of China's aquaculture industry. This industry heavily relies on fishmeal and fish oil, often sourced from wild fish stocks, which exacerbates the depletion of ocean resources. The expansion of aquaculture in China, particularly in regions like Tibet and Xinjiang, is linked to significant environmental and social impacts. These include the use of forced labor and land appropriation, as well as the depletion of fish stocks that are crucial for local communities. The investigation by The Outlaw Ocean Project highlights the hidden costs of this industry, which are often borne by poorer countries where fishmeal is produced. 
