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Recent revelations from crew members of the Chinese tuna-fishing vessel Tia Xiang 5 have exposed alarming working conditions in the fishing industry that supplies fish to the UK and EU markets. Testimonies indicate that crew members faced severe health issues while working long hours without adequate medical care or rest.
Abdul, a crew member, reported falling ill in February 2025, just four months into his employment. He experienced debilitating symptoms, including swollen and bruised legs, but was dismissed by colleagues as "weak" and "overreacting." Despite his deteriorating condition, he continued to work 16-hour shifts, earning approximately £198 a month.
As time passed, other crew members began to exhibit similar health problems, including severe weakness and shortness of breath. The lack of medical assistance and the relentless work schedule raised serious concerns about the treatment of workers aboard the Tia Xiang 5, which is owned by Shandong Zhonglu Oceanic Fisheries, a major state-owned company in China.
These troubling accounts highlight the urgent need for scrutiny and reform in the fishing industry, particularly regarding the welfare of workers who play a crucial role in supplying seafood to consumers in the UK and beyond.
Source: www.theguardian.com – https://www.theguardian.com/environment/2026/apr/23/ship-deaths-working-conditions-chinese-trawler