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Regulations on maritime observation to take effect

China.org.cn, May 21, 2012

• China's first set of regulations regarding maritime observation and forecast will be brought into effect on June 1, China's State Oceanic Administration (SOA) said on Sunday.

  Shi Qingfeng, spokesman of the administration, said at a press conference that the regulations stipulate the planning and building of maritime observation network, the protection of observation stations, the collection and sharing of observation results, as well as the publication of early warning information of maritime disasters.

  Observing and forecasting the maritime conditions of Huangyan Island and Diaoyu Islands fall within the remit of the regulations, according to the regulations.

  International organizations, foreign groups and individuals should abide by related regulations when conducting observation and research in China's territory waters.

  The regulations prohibit Chinese institutions or individuals from providing maritime observation results to foreign organizations or individuals without permission.

  The regulations say local governments in coastal areas are responsible for publishing maritime forecasts and early warning information on maritime disasters via local media or warning issuing platforms.

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