A Civic Lesson from the White Ribbonfish Fishery: Hsu Cheng-yu on How to Take Back the Serve in Selling Catches to China?

The advance notice of the policy for direct shipping of white ribbonfish to China for sale triggered extensive public discussion, with more than 5,000 signatures pouring in within two days opposing unlimited export of white ribbonfish. Council of Agriculture Minister Chen Chi-chung responded swiftly, saying, "The government has heard the plea for the white ribbonfish," and before the notice period ended (August 8), urgently convened a 3-hour forum, inviting the petition-initiating organizations, academia, officials, and industry representatives to hold discussions. Minister Chen Chi-chung promised on the spot, "Before the participants reach a consensus, the (draft for selling white ribbonfish to China) will not be rashly implemented."

Many items were discussed that day; some reached consensus, while some major issues remained unresolved. On behalf of the petition initiators, I respectfully provide a brief record for public reference. The Council of Agriculture is expected to convene another white ribbonfish forum next week to continue discussing management details. The petition initiators will also continue to participate and will keep reporting to everyone afterward.