Combat IUU Fishing: An Giang steps up action in line with EC recommendations: Fishing vessels moored at An Thoi port. (File photo: VNA)

Le Huu Toan, Director of the provincial Department of Agriculture and Environment and deputy head of the provincial Steering Committee for IUU fishing prevention and combat, said that following the EC’s fifth inspection, the province has focused on implementing the Government’s directions to address related shortcomings, while carrying out key recommendations, including improving the legal framework, strengthening the management and monitoring of fishing vessels, ensuring traceability of seafood products, and enhancing law enforcement and handling of violations.

Accordingly, the province has developed and rolled out a detailed plan to implement the EC’s recommendations, clearly defining tasks, timelines, responsibilities and legal compliance to ensure effectiveness. An inter-agency task force has been established to inspect and improve law enforcement forces' performance. The province has also reviewed and improved management mechanisms, particularly for vessels between 12 and under 15 metres in length, while taking firm action against vessels that fail to meet operational requirements. Fishing vessel owners are required to properly mark and register their vessels in accordance with regulations, and authorities are closely monitoring vessels at risk of encroaching into foreign waters.

To date, 100% of local fishing vessels, totalling 10,878, have been updated on the national Vnfishbase database, and all vessels have been equipped with vessel monitoring systems as required.

Over the past two years, enforcement efforts have resulted in fines of nearly 30 billion VND (1.39 million USD) for vessels violating foreign waters, with 55 criminal cases prosecuted, including 33 that have already gone to trial. Violations related to loss of VMS connection and crossing maritime boundaries have also resulted in fines exceeding 26 billion VND.

Alongside stricter management and enforcement, An Giang is finalising a plan to support fishermen in transitioning to alternative livelihoods, aiming to have the IUU “yellow card” removed, protect marine resources, promote sustainable fisheries development, and enhance the reputation of Vietnam’s seafood industry internationally.

The province has also proposed the Ministry of Foreign Affairs instruct Vietnamese embassies abroad and the Consular Department to provide additional documentation on fishing vessels detained and handled by foreign authorities, in order to complete case files and ensure thorough handling of violations.