This effort is not only essential for export compliance but also critical for safeguarding fishermen’s livelihoods and national prestige, said the Prime Minister while receiving Fernando Andresen Guimaraes, director of the Directorate for International Ocean Governance and Sustainable Fisheries at the European Commission’s Directorate‑General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries (DG MARE).

He highlighted that the Vietnamese government has implemented decisive measures, including strengthening legal frameworks, adopting EC recommendations, enhancing fisheries management, and advancing digital monitoring through the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), which currently covers 99% of fishing vessels.

Strict enforcement against illegal activities and programmes supporting career transitions for coastal communities further demonstrate Vietnam’s comprehensive approach to sustainable fisheries.

Prime Minister Chinh underlined that the fight against IUU fishing represents a long-term strategic partnership between Vietnam and the EU, aiming to build a transparent, sustainable, and internationally responsible fisheries sector. He emphasised that these initiatives not only protect Vietnamese fishermen but also enhance the country’s credibility and competitiveness in global seafood markets.

Guimaraes acknowledged Vietnam’s notable progress in ensuring seafood traceability and compliance with EU regulations, noting that these efforts reflect a strong commitment to responsible and sustainable fishing. He also reaffirmed that the EC would continue to provide technical support to help Vietnam address remaining challenges and achieve its objectives in fisheries management.

EU acknowledges Vietnam’s efforts to combat IUU fishing

VOV.VN - European Union (EU) ambassadors and representatives have acknowledged Vietnam’s efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, as Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh reaffirmed the country’s commitment to sustainable fisheries and closer cooperation with the EU.