BEIJING -- Lawmakers called for more efforts to further develop eco-friendly fish breeding while deliberating a report on the enforcement of China's fisheries law.

The report was submitted for review at the ongoing bimonthly session of the National People's Congress (NPC) Standing Committee which runs from Dec. 23 to 28.

Highlighting the importance of providing sufficient and safe aquatic products to the public, lawmaker Liu Zhenwei said any illegal occupation and pollution of aquaculture waters shall be dealt with in strict accordance with the law.

China is a major producer and consumer of aquatic products, which are important sources of animal protein for the public, Liu said.

According to the enforcement report, in 2018, the country's total output of aquatic products reached 64.58 million tonnes, accounting for 40 percent of the world's total.

Lawmaker Xie Guangxiang suggested enhanced inspection and assessment of product quality and safety risks, as well as supervision and spot checks in producing areas.

The law enforcement inspection was carried out by the NPC Standing Committee during September and October, which was the first of its kind since China implemented the fisheries law in 1986.