Combating IUU Fishing: Seven southern provinces collaborate to lift 'yellow card'
WVR - On January 12, in Da Lat City (Lam Dong Province), the police from the provinces and cities of Lam Dong, Ca Mau, An Giang, Can Tho, Vinh Long, Dong Thap, and Ho Chi Minh City reviewed the coordination plan to combat organizations and brokers facilitating illegal entry and exit for illegal fishing in foreign waters.
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| Representatives from the police of seven southern provinces sign a cooperation agreement at the conference. (Source: VNA) |
The conference took place in the context of ongoing efforts by the Government, the Ministry of Public Security, and local authorities to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. This is identified as a key political task, linked to protecting maritime sovereignty, maintaining the national image, and ensuring the sustainable development of Vietnam's fisheries sector.
Speaking at the conference, Vice Chairman of Lam Dong Provincial People's Committee, Le Trong Yen, called for closer coordination among police forces, border guards, and the departments of agriculture and environment in detecting, combating, and handling cases of illegal entry and exit facilitation. He emphasized the need for strict management of fishing fleets, verification of the origin of caught seafood, and effective implementation of policies supporting fishermen and local fisheries development programs.
According to reports, since May 2025, authorities in the seven southern provinces have uncovered 14 cases of fishing vessels illegally entering foreign waters, involving organized illegal entry and exit. Law enforcement has investigated, prosecuted, and adjudicated eight cases, with one case still under investigation and resolution according to legal regulations.
Notably, local police have proactively expanded investigations, uncovering numerous violations related to seafood origin certification, vessel registration and inspection, and fishing license issuance, effectively closing loopholes that could be exploited in marine fishing activities.
The Ca Mau Provincial Police investigated a case involving three defendants charged with organizing illegal exits. An Giang Provincial Police clarified information regarding a fishing vessel with five crew members violating foreign waters, currently detained by Thai authorities. Ho Chi Minh City Police addressed violations involving the possession and storage of other vessels' monitoring equipment while at sea and operating fishing vessels without the required licenses or certificates.
In addition to enforcement actions, the police in these provinces have closely collaborated with local departments and agencies to enhance public awareness and legal education on combating IUU fishing. They have encouraged fishermen to comply with regulations, avoid encroaching on foreign waters, and refrain from facilitating illegal entry and exit activities.
Local police have advised and assisted local authorities in promptly addressing issues related to fishermen's livelihoods, supporting career transitions, and stabilizing lives, thereby fostering social consensus and providing a crucial foundation for effectively addressing the "yellow card" IUU warning.
At the conference, the Lam Dong Provincial Police handed over the responsibility of organizing the next review conference to the Can Tho City Police, demonstrating a spirit of responsibility, continuity, and close cooperation among localities in fulfilling the common mission.
