The number of vessels engaged in IUU fishing experiences a significant decline in Ba Ria – Vung Tau
The Ba Ria – Vung Tau provincial Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has reported a significant decrease in the number of vessels involved in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing activities since the province entered into a coordination agreement with maritime law enforcement forces in 2022.
Improved communication efforts have led to heightened awareness among fishermen regarding legal fishing practices, resulting in better compliance with regulations. Enhanced scrutiny and control measures by authorities, particularly in waters adjacent to other countries, have yielded more effective outcomes.
In Long Dien district, fishermen have recognized the detrimental impacts of IUU fishing on their livelihoods and properties, prompting adjustments to their fishing strategies. To maintain both substantial catch volumes and adherence to regulations, fishing trips have been prolonged from one to two months to three to four months.
To support these extended trips, fishermen have proposed extensions to vehicle inspection deadlines and allowances for vessels to continue operating at sea in the event of monitoring system malfunctions. They also seek the presence of law enforcement units such as coast guards, navy, fisheries surveillance, or border guards to certify vessel statuses.
Deputy Political Commissar of the Ba Ria – Vung Tau Border Guard Command, Col. Nguyen Van Thong, deems these proposals feasible, suggesting the installation of temporary monitoring systems after certification, with expenses covered by the maritime environmental protection fund. Such measures aim to facilitate both stringent vessel management and favorable conditions for fishing activities.
Nationwide endeavors, including initiatives from central to local levels and cooperation from fishermen, align with efforts to fulfill the European Commission’s recommendations on IUU fishing prevention and control. Ambassador Julien Guerrier of the EU Delegation to Vietnam commended these efforts during a meeting with the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, expressing optimism about Vietnam’s progress in fishing vessel management to lift the “yellow card” warning soon.
Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Le Minh Hoan views the lifting of the “yellow card” as an opportunity for Vietnam to transition from a small-scale fisheries sector to a responsible one, emphasizing its significance for sustainable fishery development and the country’s international reputation.
