09/01/2025 at 05:03 (GMT+7)
Breaking News

Kien Giang strengthens efforts against IUU fishing

The Southern province of Kien Giang, home to over 9,700 fishing vessels, including 3,500 offshore boats, has intensified measures to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, joining efforts in seeking the European Commission’s (EC)'s removal of its “yellow card” warning against Vietnamese seafood.

Border units there have implemented strict inspections and public awareness campaigns, emphasizing legal fishing regulations. The Phao Dai Border Post, which oversees over 300 offshore vessels, has also paid heed to the information work.

Nguyen Cao Cuong, a fishery safety group leader in Ha Tien city, highlighted his fleet’s adherence to regulations, including maintaining the vessel monitoring system (VMS), carrying operation licenses, and avoiding restricted areas or foreign waters.

An officer checks a VMS device.

Vo Truong Giang, a vessel owner from Ba Ria - Vung Tau province operating near Kien Giang's Phu Quoc island, noted his reduced profits due to declining fish stocks, but expressed his commitment to legal fishing practices.

The border guard and other forces have conducted regular patrols and inspections, handled violations, and confiscated illegal fishing gear. In 2024, the Ha Tien Border Post has processed 1,930 vessel entering and exiting, organized 35 sea patrols, and penalized 10 cases, with fines worth over VND 300 million (USD 11,800).

The province has achieved 100% registration and licensing of its fishing vessels, all equipped with VMS devices. Collaborations with nearby provinces, including Ca Mau, and competent units such as the navy and coast guard have proven effective in the IUU fishing combat.

Colonel Doan Dinh Tranh, Deputy Political Commissar of the Border Guard Command of Kien Giang, emphasized the ongoing efforts to prevent IUU fishing, ensuring sustainable fisheries and contributing to having the E.C.’s "yellow card" lifted.

Hoang Trang