Updated maritime authorities launched in China   

The restructured State Oceanic Administration (SOA) and the newly-formed China Maritime Police Bureau (CMPB) officially opened on Monday. [Photo: China Ocean News/Yao Baolong]

(ECNS) -- The restructured State Oceanic Administration (SOA) and the newly-formed China Maritime Police Bureau (CMPB) officially opened on Monday, according to a report by China Ocean News.

The SOA takes on expanded responsibilities regarding marine law enforcement, while the CMPB, which falls partly under the SOA's control, is responsible for deploying and commanding police officers. However, the bureau will also be under the "operational direction" of the Ministry of Public Security.

The CMPB unifies multiple marine forces, including China Maritime Surveillance, the coast guard under the Ministry of Public Security, the Fisheries Law Enforcement Command (Ministry of Agriculture) and the maritime anti-smuggling authorities of the General Administration of Customs.

Approved by the State Council in June, the formation of two new oceanic departments highlights the expanded duties of maritime law enforcement, improving the protection and usage of oceanic resources as well as better safeguarding China's maritime rights.