VOICED : Hong Kongs trawlermen diversify as fish

Since 2013, trawling in Hong Kong waters has been banned to protect the seabed and fish stocks, forcing fishermen to seek alternative livelihoods. Many have turned to tourism, taking visitors to see local dolphins, which has proven more lucrative than fishing. Despite the challenges, some former fishermen are dedicated to preserving their cultural heritage by educating tourists about traditional fishing techniques. The once-thriving fishing industry has significantly declined, with fewer than 4,000 boats remaining from over 10,000 in the 1960s.

What was the primary reason for the ban on trawling in Hong Kong waters?

• To reduce pollution

• To promote tourism

• To protect the seabed and declining fish stocks

• To increase the number of fishing boats

How has the trawling ban affected the income of local fishermen?

• It has increased their income by a third

• It has had no effect on their income

• It has reduced their income by a third

• It has doubled their income

What new activity have some fishermen turned to after the trawling ban?

• Teaching in schools

• Farming

• Tourism, taking tourists to see local dolphins

• Construction work

What is one way former fishermen are preserving their cultural heritage?

• By writing books

• By opening restaurants

• By teaching tourists about traditional fishing techniques

• By building museums

How has the number of fishing boats in Hong Kong changed since the 1960s?

• It has increased to over 20,000

• It has remained the same

• It has decreased to fewer than 4,000

• It has increased to 15,000