THE HANOI TIMES — Vietnam has called on the US to review its decision to reject the recognition of 12 fisheries sectors, warning that the ban could harm bilateral trade and the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of fishermen and workers.

The US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has announced that products from 12 Vietnamese fisheries will be barred from the US market starting January 1, 2026, under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA). Major exports such as tuna, squid, crab, grouper and mullet are expected to be hit hardest.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang confirmed at a press briefing on September 26 that Vietnam is working closely with relevant agencies to address the issue.

She noted that Vietnam has strengthened management standards, improved monitoring, and enhanced supply chain transparency in recent years to meet international requirements and protect marine life.

According to the spokesperson, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has sent an official letter to the US Department of Commerce and NOAA, urging a review of the decision given its potential impact on exports.

The Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP) has also called for technical support and stronger dialogue with the US, while proposing solutions for the fisheries transition to ease the impact on communities and businesses.

Hang said that Vietnam is ready to engage with the US through diplomatic and trade channels to resolve the matter and maintain stable cooperation.

Analysts say the ruling comes at a sensitive time, as seafood remains one of Vietnam’s top export earners. The US is a major market, accounting for a significant share of sales.

Any disruption could ripple through coastal communities, where millions depend on fishing and related industries. Vietnam has pledged to continue dialogue with Washington while pursuing long-term reforms to keep its fisheries sector sustainable and competitive.

According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP), the US imported over US$900 million worth of Vietnamese seafood in H1/2025, up 18% year-on-year. That accounted for a fifth of Vietnam's total seafood exports during the time.