China mulls first sea exploration law

China's national legislature is deliberating on the country's first law on deep seabed exploration to protect the maritime environment and boost sustainable exploitation of deep sea resources.
"China should complete its legislation on deep seabed exploration as soon as possible, so as to fulfill its international obligations and protect the interests of the country as well as mankind," said lawmaker Lu Hao speaking at the standing committee session of National People's Congress (NPC).
China is a signatory to the United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea, which states that international seabeds and their resources are the commonly inherited property of mankind.

According to the draft law, potential deep seabed prospectors must submit their plans to the Chinese maritime watchdog, including materials reflecting possible impact on the marine environment.
Only after the Chinese regulator approves the plan they can apply to the International Seabed Authority and sign a seabed exploration contract.
Those who proceed with their exploration without obtaining approval will be fined of up to one million yuan (USD 158,300) if they cause marine environment damage.

Serious violators will be held criminally responsible, state-run Xinhua news agency reported.
The draft reads that, to improve deep sea exploration technology, the government will provide ships, equipment and other professional services for deep sea technology research and deep sea surveys.

The government will also support activities like seminars held by social organisations and individuals to popularise deep sea science.