The Vietnamese government has recently intensified its efforts to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing by issuing a new Decree increasing administrative penalties for violations in the fisheries sector, according to the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment.
This is part of a broader strategy to ensure sustainable fishing practices and to comply with international regulations, the ministry reported at the 22nd meeting of the national steering committee on IUU fishing prevention on November 18.
Government Decree No. 301 stipulates fines for various violations with penalties of up to VND700 million ($26,600), depending on the severity and nature of each violation.
The move aims to deter illegal activities and promote sustainable fishing practices, contributing to the long-term health of marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of those dependent on the fishing industry.
As of November 15, a total of 79,360 fishing vessels nationwide had been registered and updated in the national fisheries database (VNFishbase), reaching 100%. The number of licensed vessels stands at 76,811, according to the ministry. Vessels found ineligible for operation have been placed under local supervision.
The Ministry of Public Security has launched criminal proceedings in three cases involving four defendants, while five other cases with 12 defendants have been brought to court. From early 2024 to November 15, 2025, police initiated 91 criminal cases related to IUU violations, prosecuting 136 defendants, and brought 48 cases involving 101 defendants to trial.
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