Key practical points:
• A comprehensive ban on commercial fishing applies to the main stream and key tributaries for years (the 'ten-year fishing ban').
• Strict limits apply to industrial and chemical projects near the riverbanks.
• Endangered aquatic species (such as the finless porpoise) and their habitats are protected.
• Provinces coordinate on water management and preventing cross-boundary pollution.
• Limits apply to sand mining and construction that harms the river ecosystem.
• Tough penalties apply to pollution and illegal fishing within the basin.
Yangtze River Protection Law · Yalla China
中华人民共和国长江保护法 / Yangtze River Protection Law
Enacted: 2020-12-26 ✅ Effective: 2021-03-01
📝 Overview
China's first law dedicated to protecting a specific river basin, the Yangtze. It addresses pollution, fishing, navigation and development across the whole basin. It concerns residents, businesses, farmers and fishers in Yangtze-basin provinces.
This is general information only, not legal advice. For your specific case, consult a licensed lawyer.
📜 The law text / key provisions
💬 Practical reading
💬 This is a general reading/opinion for orientation — not the official legal text nor legal advice.
If you live or work near the Yangtze, remember commercial fishing is entirely banned for years and industrial projects on the banks face strict limits. Even recreational fishing is restricted in many spots. General orientation, not legal advice.
📎 Official source
Ministry of Ecology and Environment / mee.gov.cn
🕒 Updated: 16 March 2026