The PM made the request in an official dispatch dated February 25, as a delegation from the European Commission (EC) prepares for its fifth review of the country’s efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.

The upcoming EC inspection, expected in early March, could determine whether the EU lifts the warning or escalates measures. The inspection is widely seen as a critical milestone after nearly eight years since the warning was first imposed.

The Prime Minister acknowledged progress made by ministries, enforcement forces and fishing communities in aligning Vietnam’s fisheries management framework with EU recommendations. However, he reminded that violations persist, including fishing vessels operating without meeting required conditions and cases of encroachment into foreign waters, while some violations have not been fully addressed.

The government leader instructed relevant agencies to intensify enforcement efforts, strictly manage fishing fleets, strengthen monitoring and surveillance systems, and ensure full traceability of seafood products from catch to export. Officials have also been directed to prepare comprehensive documentation and technical evidence for the EC inspection team.

Particular emphasis has been placed on preventing vessels from operating without proper authorisation and ensuring that vessel monitoring systems (VMS) function effectively and consistently. Authorities are also required to handle violations decisively and improve coordination among central and local agencies.

The directive underscores the responsibility of the ministers and provincial leaders, especially in coastal provinces with significant fishing and seafood export activities, to personally oversee implementation and ensure measurable results.

The European Commission issued a “yellow card” warning to Vietnam in October 2017 over illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It has since then conducted several inspection missions and has maintained the warning, urging Vietnam to strengthen its legal framework, tighten fleet management, improve traceability systems and enhance law enforcement.

Vietnam views the removal of the “yellow card” not only as a trade objective but as part of broader efforts to reform fisheries governance, strengthen compliance with international standards, and promote sustainable development of the seafood sector.

The outcome of the EC’s fifth inspection is expected to play a decisive role in shaping the future of Vietnam’s seafood exports to the European Union, one of its key markets.

Vietnam ramps up IUU fishing enforcement to lift EU yellow card

VOV.VN - In 2025, Vietnam entered a critical phase in its efforts to remove the European Commission’s (EC) “yellow card” warning on illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing.