Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh asked ministries and localities to continue efforts to fight illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing while chairing a teleconference with 28 coastal cities and provinces on December 1.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) has reported that IUU fishing has been reeled in since the European Commission (EC) issued a “yellow card” warning to Vietnam five years ago.

Problems and shortcomings remain, however, regarding which an EC delegation gave recommendations during their third inspection recently, MARD noted, adding that the EC also highly values Vietnam’s strong political resolve, especially the drastic directions delivered by the government and the Prime Minister.

Participants also pointed out causes and obstacles, looked into international experience, and proposed solutions to prevent IUU fishing.

Prime Minister Chinh said that many problems still exist and haven’t been addressed quickly enough.

He noted that these problems are caused not only by people’s limited awareness but also by a lack of sense of responsibility among certain organizations and individuals. This sluggish progress is due to a lack of strong action, attention, inspection, and supervision over the issue, as well as long-term solutions, including ensuring livelihoods for fishermen.

“The fight against IUU fishing must be carried out not for the sake of formality but for the sake of the people and Vietnam’s image as a responsible member of the international community in implementing international commitments, including marine environment protection,” he emphasized.

He also called for a 180-day action plan to carry out the EC’s recommendations, a long-term strategy to prevent IUU fishing, a review of sea areas and territorial waters, a re-assessment fishing and aquaculture activities, and the creation of sustainable livelihoods for people.