Khanh Hoa (VNA) – The central province of Khanh Hoa launched an intensive campaign on August 28 to clamp down on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, demonstrating its determination to have the European Council (EC)’s yellow card removed.
Speaking at the ceremony, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Trinh Minh Hoang affirmed it is not only an urgent task but also a matter of national honour. Combating illegal fishing will protect aquatic resources and affirm Vietnam’s reputation in the international arena.
The removal of the “yellow card” is key to maintaining Vietnam’s seafood exports to the European Union, one of the country’s largest markets. The official emphasised that the campaign is not simply about meeting EU recommendations but about safeguarding the sustainability of the fisheries industry.
Running from August 20 to September 2, the drive focuses on drastic measures, including communications on regulations and the installation of vessel monitoring system (VMS) equipment to raise public awareness and compliance.
Local authorities are implementing strict controls over all fishing vessels entering and leaving ports, requiring complete documentation, logs, and VMS equipment. Repeat or intentional offenders, particularly those fishing illegally in foreign waters, face harsh punishment, including being barred from setting out to sea.
At the same time, all boat owners, captains, and fishermen are required to complete departure and arrival declarations through the national VNeID database. Patrols are being stepped up to root out vessels that lack proper registration, fishing licences, and inspection certificates./.
Southern localities clamp down on IUU fishing, tighten control over vessels
According to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development, all “three-no's” fishing boats that lack proper registration, fishing licences, and inspection certificates have been phased out in most of the coastal localities. Additionally, vessel data have been updated in the national fisheries database.
