Recent Developments

1. European Commission’s “Yellow Card” Status: In October 2017, the European Commission (EC) issued a “yellow card” warning to Vietnam, highlighting deficiencies in the country’s fisheries management and efforts to combat IUU fishing. Despite multiple inspections and Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to rectify these issues, the “yellow card” remains in effect as of February 2025. The EC’s concerns have centered on the need for a comprehensive legal framework, effective monitoring and enforcement mechanisms, and measures to prevent Vietnamese vessels from illegally fishing in foreign waters.  

2. Strengthening Legal and Regulatory Frameworks: In response to the EC’s recommendations, Vietnam has implemented several legal reforms:

• Decrees 37/2024/ND-CP and 38/2024/ND-CP: These decrees, issued in 2024, revise penalties for administrative violations in fisheries, aiming to enhance compliance and deter illegal activities.  

• Circular 06/2024/TT-BNNPTNT: This circular focuses on eliminating “three-no” fishing vessels—those without registration, inspection, or fishing licenses—to ensure all operational vessels meet legal standards.  

• Resolution 04/2024/NQ-HDTP: Issued by the Supreme People’s Court on June 12, 2024, this resolution provides guidance on criminal charges for illegal fishing in foreign waters, emphasizing the seriousness of such violations.  

3. Enhanced Monitoring and Enforcement: Vietnam has intensified patrols and inspections to curb IUU fishing:

• Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS): Authorities have mandated the installation of VMS on all fishing vessels to track their activities and ensure compliance with fishing regulations. Non-compliance with VMS requirements has been met with strict penalties.  

• Interagency Coordination: The Ministry of National Defense, in collaboration with the Coast Guard, Navy, and Border Guard units, has increased patrols in key areas, particularly near borders with Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand, to prevent illegal fishing activities.  

4. International Collaboration and Support: Recognizing the global nature of IUU fishing, Vietnam has sought international assistance:

• U.S. Support: In December 2024, the United States announced a $12.5 million assistance package to enhance Vietnam’s maritime law enforcement capabilities and combat IUU fishing. This support underscores the importance of international cooperation in addressing maritime security challenges.  

5. Challenges and Ongoing Investigations: Despite these efforts, challenges persist:

• Continued Violations: Reports indicate that Vietnamese fishermen continue to engage in illegal fishing activities in foreign waters. In 2024 alone, 13 Vietnamese fishing vessels were detained by foreign authorities for such violations.  

• Smuggling and Poaching: Investigations have revealed that commercial fishing fleets are being used to smuggle wildlife products, including parts of critically endangered species like the Malayan tiger, from Malaysia to Vietnam. This illicit activity highlights the intersection of IUU fishing with wildlife trafficking and organized crime.  

Implications and Future Outlook

Vietnam’s concerted efforts to combat IUU fishing reflect a commitment to sustainable fisheries management and adherence to international standards. The upcoming fifth inspection by the EC will be pivotal in determining whether the “yellow card” can be lifted. Success in this endeavor is crucial not only for Vietnam’s seafood exports but also for the preservation of marine ecosystems and the livelihoods of communities dependent on fishing.

Keywords: Vietnam, IUU fishing, European Commission, yellow card, fisheries management, legal reforms, vessel monitoring systems, international collaboration, wildlife trafficking.

Sources for Further Reading

For a visual overview of Vietnam’s efforts to combat IUU fishing, you may find the following video informative:

Vietnam’s Battle Against Illegal Fishing