Việt Nam has made significant, structural progress in addressing the European Commission’s (EC) recommendations on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Environment Phùng Đức Tiến told Việt Nam News. Since the yellow card was issued in 2017, the country has strengthened its legal framework with new decrees, circulars and judicial guidance, while elevating political oversight through Party Directive 32 and a Government resolution. The Prime Minister has taken direct charge, calling the effort a “declaration of war” against IUU violations. Fleet management has improved sharply, with full alignment of data across agencies and strict monitoring of over 11,000 large vessels. Nearly all required boats now have vessel monitoring systems, and localities have completed registration, licensing and safety inspections, effectively ending the long-standing “three-no” fleet. Digital tools, including electronic logbooks and port-based traceability systems, are being applied nationwide to ensure transparent catch documentation. Tiến said Việt Nam is ready for the EC’s next inspection, citing stronger enforcement, expanded communication campaigns and cooperation with international partners. He emphasised that lifting the yellow card in 2025 hinges on local authorities’ determination to eliminate violations in foreign waters and maintain strict, consistent oversight, affirming that removing the warning is vital for sustainable fisheries, marine resource protection and long-term livelihoods. — VNS (ICE HO CHI MINH CITY)

Fonte notizia: Vietnam News