Nghe An (VNA) – The central province of Nghe An has taken drastic actions to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing in an effort to have the European Commission (EC)'s “yellow card” warning against Vietnam’s seafood exports lifted.
With a coastline of 82 km, a large fleet of over 3,100 fishing vessels, and about 12,000 workers directly involved in the sector, the province has deeply experienced the impact of the EC’s yellow card.
Its anti-IUU fishing efforts pay off, particularly in raising fishermen’s awareness and promoting coordination among agencies.
In 2024 alone, the provincial Border Guard Command collaborated with authorities in coastal districts and competent forces to organise 12 communications sessions, reaching 2,235 people. Relevant units worked with localities to conduct 108 broadcasts on local loudspeakers, hold 82 communications sessions in wards and communes for over 3,440 fishermen, and distribute 3,550 leaflets.
At the same time, the owners of 5,582 vessels signed commitments to not engage in IUU fishing. Nearly 98.6% of fishing boats have installed vessel monitoring system (VMS) equipment. Fishermen strictly comply with regulations regarding departure and fishing activities.
Pham Van Tuan, a fisherman from Ngoc Bich commune, Dien Chau district, said that local fisherment are now aware of the importance of removing the "yellow card."
In addition to communications activities, Nghe An has mobilised the entire political system in the fight against IUU fishing.
As a core force, in recent years, the provincial Border Guard Command has directed units to coordinate with competent forces and local authorities to monitor the situation, enhance patrols, and promptly detect, combat, and prevent violations.
In addition to supporting fishermen in regulation compliance, the force is determined to handle violations. In 2024 alone, thanks to coordinated efforts, they detected and handled 191 cases, imposing administrative fines exceeding 4.3 billion VND (167,700 USD)./.
