Authorities in Binh Thuan Province, Vietnam, are intensifying efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing as they prepare for the upcoming inspection by the European Commission (EC) scheduled for March 21 to 31, 2025. This initiative, spearheaded by Deputy Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, Nguyễn Hồng Hải, aims not only to improve the local fisheries management but also to address the pressing need to lift the EC's current 'yellow card' warning against Vietnamese fisheries.
With the backdrop of potential sanctions looming over the fisheries sector, local officials have been urged to heighten their commitment to implementing strict measures against IUU fishing. The Binh Thuan provincial government has directed all relevant agencies to work collaboratively to assure compliance with the guidelines laid out by the EC.
Effective management of fishing vessels is central to these efforts. Currently, Binh Thuan Province boasts 5,194 registered fishing boats, with approximately 81.94% holding valid fishing licenses. These figures represent significant strides made toward regulatory compliance and reflect the province’s dedication to sustainable fishing practices. Remarkably, nearly all qualifying vessels—those over 15 meters long—are equipped with vessel monitoring systems (VMS), promoting accountability at sea.
During the February 26 meeting, Hải highlighted the significance of these initiatives, stating, "We will not allow fishing vessels to operate without proper registration and licensing," reinforcing the need for rigorous enforcement of maritime laws. This commitment resonates throughout the provincial administration's approach to IUU fishing, urging local authorities and fishing communities alike to adopt measures aimed at safeguarding marine resources.
Public education and outreach have also played pivotal roles in enhancing fishermen’s awareness of the legal frameworks surrounding fishing activities. The government has increased its efforts to disseminate information about IUU fishing laws, ensuring local fishers are informed about the rules governing fishing practices. By regularly engaging with fishing communities, officials aim to bolster cooperation and encourage adherence to sustainable fishing practices.
Trần Phước Hiền, Vice Chairman of the Provincial People’s Committee, emphasized the urgency of the situation by stating, "It is urgent for all levels of government to address issues related to IUU fishing to comply with EU recommendations." His comments reflect the proactive stance taken by the local authorities to avert potential economic repercussions stemming from non-compliance.
Through increased vigilance, monitoring, and education, local government agencies are dedicated to ensuring compliance not just for the benefit of the fishing industry, but for the entire region's economy, which relies heavily on sustainable fishing. Reports indicate no violations of foreign waters by provincial fishing boats to date this year, indicating progress made as the authorities step up their monitoring and management efforts.
The commitment to improving vessel management includes not only ensuring compliance with licenses and permits but also addressing more pressing issues, such as the installation of VMS on all boats and real-time tracking of their movements. This monitoring system is seen as a key factor for preventing illegal activities and protecting marine biodiversity.
The recent inspections of fishing licenses and the push for educational outreach on sustainable practices seem to be part of broader initiatives aimed at reshaping the fishing sector. The statistics report 2,710 fishing vessels have been registered under the three-no policy, indicating full compliance for vessels of six meters or more.
With these comprehensive measures, Binh Thuan is positioning itself as a leader within Vietnam’s fight against IUU fishing. It is striving not only to meet but exceed the standards required by the EU, aiming to recover its seafood industry's reputation internationally. The emphasis on resolving IUU issues could lead to improvements not only for local fisheries but also for marine ecosystems, benefiting future generations.
Looking forward, the provincial government is on high alert to implement additional reforms and corrections before the upcoming EU evaluation. These plans include upgrading port infrastructure and ensuring the timely issuance of fishing licenses. The path forward anticipates the complexity of managing both regulatory compliance and community engagement, with the ultimate goal of ensuring the sustainable development of Binh Thuan's aquatic resources.
Overall, the steps taken by Binh Thuan Province stand as testimony to Vietnam's commitment to eradicators IUU fishing practices. These focused efforts not only aim to alleviate the immediate concerns presented by the EC but will likely lay the groundwork for enhancing the fishing industry sustainably. The anticipated outcomes from recent initiatives are expected to contribute positively to tropical fisher livelihoods and the ecological balance of the region.