China issues management rules for Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve

China on Saturday issued the management measures for the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve, a key step in safeguarding the diversity, stability and sustainability of the Huangyan Dao natural ecosystem.

Under the rules, a routine patrol system will be established to promptly investigate and handle violations in accordance with the law. Violators will be held accountable under relevant laws and regulations.

The rules were jointly issued by the Ministry of Natural Resources, the National Forestry and Grassland Administration, the China Coast Guard and the Hainan provincial government, with clear responsibilities assigned and a coordination mechanism to address major issues.

The 16-article measures focus on management mechanisms, conservation measures and legal liabilities, providing a comprehensive regulatory framework for the reserve.

According to the rules, the nature reserve shall be subject to strict protection. Without prior approval, any activities such as fishing, mining and the extraction of corals, coral reefs or giant clams that damage rare marine species and the natural ecosystem are prohibited.

No individual or organization may enter the reserve, except as otherwise provided by laws and regulations or for activities organized for conservation and management purposes.

Huangyan Dao, located in China's Zhongsha Qundao, features a unique coral reef ecosystem and special geological structures. It is home to numerous rare and endangered species, making it an area of high biodiversity and species rarity.

In September 2025, China formally approved establishing the Huangyan Dao National Nature Reserve. Administered under the city of Sansha, south China's Hainan Province, the reserve spans 3,523.67 hectares.