(seafood.vasep.com.vn) With a range of synchronized solutions, from institutional improvements and strengthened communication to strict fleet control, Quang Ninh is stepping up efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, determined to join the country in soon having the European Commission’s (EC) “yellow card” lifted.
According to the Quang Ninh Department of Agriculture and Environment, in recent years the province’s fight against IUU fishing has been implemented in a comprehensive, methodical and determined manner. The province has advised, issued and coordinated the issuance of more than 40 directives and regulatory documents related to IUU prevention, gradually improving the legal framework and management mechanisms in line with practical conditions.
Many important policies have been rolled out, such as consolidating the provincial Steering Committee on IUU prevention; revising fishing vessel management regulations toward greater practicality; issuing the 2025 IUU prevention plan; and progressively decentralizing vessel management to the grassroots level, ensuring clear assignment of responsibilities and accountability.
At the same time, communication and legal dissemination activities have been intensified through flexible approaches. In 2025, fisheries and fisheries surveillance forces organized 48 communication trips, reaching and guiding nearly 5,000 fishermen; distributed tens of thousands of leaflets, documents and bulletins; and held numerous training courses and conferences to raise awareness among fishermen and local officials about IUU prevention in association with the protection of aquatic resources.
To date, 100% of eligible fishing vessels in the province—totaling 4,123 boats—have completed registration and been granted fishing licenses in accordance with regulations. As a result, Quang Ninh has become one of four localities nationwide to complete fishing license issuance ahead of schedule. Notably, all vessels measuring 15 meters or more in length have installed and maintained connectivity of Vessel Monitoring System (VMS) devices, enabling strict monitoring and control of fishing activities at sea.
In addition to these achievements, Quang Ninh frankly acknowledges that certain shortcomings and limitations remain, which must be addressed to fully meet the EC’s recommendations. Accordingly, the province is focusing resources and implementing synchronized measures to further enhance the effectiveness of IUU prevention in the coming period.
Quang Ninh continues to unify leadership and direction from the provincial to grassroots levels, considering IUU prevention a key, priority and urgent political task. The province is determined to “take action” against IUU fishing and join the nation in promptly removing the EC’s “yellow card” warning.
The province has set specific targets, including resolutely preventing fishing vessels from violating foreign waters; ensuring 100% of vessels 15 meters and above maintain continuous VMS connectivity; and guaranteeing that 100% of aquatic products landed at ports are monitored and traceable. At the same time, the province will continue to refine institutions and support mechanisms while strictly handling IUU violations, especially breaches related to VMS equipment regulations.
Notably, in 2026, Quang Ninh will conduct two peak inspection and enforcement campaigns in January and February to review compliance with IUU regulations. These campaigns are considered an important preparation step ahead of the EC’s fifth inspection visit to Vietnam. The province will also maintain a 24/7 hotline to protect aquatic resources, ensuring that 100% of reports are received, verified and handled in accordance with regulations.
Alongside management and enforcement efforts, Quang Ninh will continue investing in fisheries infrastructure, particularly fishing ports and storm shelter anchorage areas. The province is expected to ensure conditions for the announcement of four fishing ports: Cai Rong (Class II), Tien Toi (Class III), Phuc Tien (Class III), and Co To (Class III).
In addition, the province will strengthen communication and training for fishermen, while promoting activities to restore and regenerate aquatic resources in 2026. Various social resources will be mobilized to participate in restocking activities, especially during peak periods, in line with national directives.