Vice Chairman of the Quang Tri provincial People’s Committee Le Van Bao (top row, fourth from right) presents gifts to fishermen and calls for strict compliance with regulations on IUU fishing. (Photo: VNA)

The Border Guard Command of the central province of Quang Tri convened a conference on February 26 to review the implementation of measures against illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing in 2025 and set out tasks and solutions for 2026.

The event came at a crucial time as Vietnam prepares to work with the fifth inspection mission of the European Commission (EC). It provided an opportunity for the province to comprehensively assess achievements, identify shortcomings, and reaffirm its political commitment to combating IUU fishing and restructuring the fisheries sector towards a modern, responsible and sustainable direction.

Addressing the conference, Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Le Van Bao urged the Border Guard Command, departments and localities to continue strictly implementing directions from the central authorities, the Government and the provincial People’s Committee on IUU prevention and control. He stressed the need to enhance the accountability of heads of agencies and local authorities in deploying synchronised and more effective measures.

Relevant forces were asked to intensify communications and legal education for vessel owners, captains and fishermen, helping them fully understand the consequences of violations and their responsibilities in complying with fisheries regulations. This would also enable them to provide transparent information to the EC inspection delegation during its visit.

Bao requested agencies and localities to urgently conduct a comprehensive review of all assigned IUU-related tasks, and prepare complete, consistent and interconnected dossiers and data to demonstrate honest, objective and positive progress in enforcement efforts.

Particular attention should be paid to reviewing records of violations handled since 2024 to ensure strict and lawful sanctions. Authorities were told to closely manage vessels that are ineligible for operation, have expired registration, are considered high-risk, or have lost connection to the vessel monitoring system (VMS) for prolonged periods, and resolutely prevent non-compliant vessels from leaving ports.

The province will also strengthen coordination among competent forces and local administrations in monitoring fishing activities and tracing the origin of seafood. At the same time, it will study and propose mechanisms and policies to support fishermen, including assistance and vocational transition guidance in line with fisheries planning and sustainable marine economic development.

The provincial Border Guard Command was tasked with maintaining strict inspection and control of fishing vessels at river mouths, fishing ports and at sea, ensuring that 100% of vessels departing ports meet regulatory requirements. Fishing boats measuring six metres or longer must pass through border guard control stations and designated ports for inspection and catch declaration.

According to Commander of the provincial Border Guard Command Colonel Trinh Thanh Binh, in 2025, the unit actively advised authorities to issue timely directives and implemented IUU prevention measures in a comprehensive and resolute manner. Regular patrols and inspections at sea and along the coast have been maintained, with all violations detected and handled in accordance with the law, helping to improve fleet management and seafood traceability.

Source: VNA