China Enters Race for High Seas Treaty Secretariat
China has officially put forward Xiamen as its candidate city to host the secretariat of the new international agreement governing the high seas, formally known as the Biodiversity Beyond National Jurisdiction (BBNJ) Agreement. The proposal was conveyed in a letter from the Chinese mission to the United Nations to Secretary-General Antonio Guterres on Friday, January 16, 2026. This bid marks a significant step, signaling Beijing's ambition for greater influence in global environmental governance and its desire to 'help shape global rules'.
The High Seas Treaty: A New Era for Ocean Governance
The High Seas Treaty, adopted by the UN General Assembly on June 19, 2023, after nearly two decades of negotiations, officially entered into force on January 17, 2026. This landmark agreement aims to ensure the conservation and sustainable use of marine biological diversity in areas beyond national jurisdiction, which constitute approximately two-thirds of the global ocean. The treaty became legally binding 120 days after Morocco became the 60th country to ratify it on September 19, 2025.
The agreement establishes a comprehensive framework covering four key areas:
- Marine Genetic Resources (MGRs) and the fair and equitable sharing of benefits.
- Area-Based Management Tools (ABMTs), including the establishment of Marine Protected Areas (MPAs) in international waters.
- Environmental Impact Assessments (EIAs) for activities that could affect marine biodiversity.
- Capacity-building and the transfer of marine technology (CBTMT), particularly to support developing countries.
The treaty also creates an institutional framework, including a Conference of the Parties (COP), a Scientific and Technical Body, and the crucial Secretariat. The first COP is anticipated to convene later in 2026 to make key operational decisions.
Competition for the Secretariat Host
Prior to China's announcement, Belgium and Chile had already expressed their interest in hosting the secretariat. Belgium officially submitted its candidacy for Brussels on November 28, 2025, emphasizing its diplomatic infrastructure and scientific expertise. Chile has proposed Valparaíso as its host city. The host country for the eventual secretariat will be decided later this year.
The secretariat will serve as the 'institutional backbone' of the BBNJ Agreement, responsible for coordinating its implementation across all nations and supporting efforts to protect and conserve marine biodiversity. China's bid, described as a 'notable move' by Li Shuo, director of the China Climate Hub at the Asia Society Policy Institute, comes shortly after the United States announced its withdrawal from numerous global organizations and treaties. As of January 17, 2026, 83 countries have ratified the treaty, including China and Japan among other major maritime powers.
6 Comments
Habibi
China's proposal for Xiamen could bring significant resources to the secretariat, which is beneficial. Nevertheless, the international community must ensure that the host does not exert undue influence over the treaty's independent operations.
Mariposa
It's good that a major power is engaged in the High Seas Treaty, showing commitment to global issues. However, concerns about China's past environmental practices and geopolitical motivations are valid and need to be addressed.
Muchacha
The High Seas Treaty is vital for ocean health, and China's ratification is a positive step. Yet, questions remain about how its leadership role would balance national interests with the collective good of international waters.
Bella Ciao
Excellent! China's involvement can only strengthen the High Seas Treaty's implementation and reach.
Comandante
Good to see China filling the void left by others. Global cooperation needs strong leadership.
Donatello
While China's bid highlights its growing role in international affairs, the choice of secretariat host should prioritize neutrality and transparency. The implications of a single major power hosting such a critical body are complex.