A recent investigation by the Círculo de Políticas Ambientales highlights the troubling trend of foreign companies, particularly those with Asian ownership, operating fishing vessels under the Argentine flag in the country's exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The modification of registration requirements in 2013 has allowed at least 68% of the squid fishing vessels with Argentine flags to be owned by Asian capital, predominantly Chinese. This situation raises serious concerns about the legitimacy and sustainability of fishing practices in Argentina's waters,

Despite assurances from the Federal Fisheries Council that foreign investments are not inherently problematic, environmental organizations like Mongabay Latam and industry publications such as Time have raised alarms about these companies' past involvement in illegal or unreported fishing activities, which include operations beyond the 200 nautical mile limit that defines Argentina's EEZ. The implications of these practices not only threaten marine biodiversity but also undermine local fishing communities that abide by legal and sustainable fishing practices.

As scrutiny increases over these operations, it appears there is a pressing need for stronger regulatory oversight to ensure compliance with national and international fishing standards. The presence of foreign investments in local fishing fleets must be carefully managed to prevent further exploitation of marine resources, protect the livelihoods of legitimate fishers, and safeguard Argentina's marine ecosystem from destructive practices perpetuated by companies previously sanctioned for their misconduct.