EC confirms partnership with Vietnam in developing sustainable fisheries sector

During the working session, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien expressed his deep appreciation to Ms. Charlina Vitcheva, Director-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries of the European Commission, and her colleagues for their close coordination and active support in helping Vietnam combat illegal fishing and work toward the removal of the IUU yellow card.

With the support and partnership of Ms. Vitcheva and her team, Vietnam has seriously and decisively implemented the European Commission’s recommendations, while also effectively carrying out: Directive No. 32-CT/TW dated April 10, 2024 of the Party Central Committee’s Secretariat on strengthening the Party's leadership in combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and promoting sustainable fisheries development; Resolution No. 52/NQ-CP dated April 22, 2024 of the Government, issuing the Government’s action program and plan to implement Directive No. 32-CT/TW; Resolution No. 04 of the Council of Judges of the Supreme People’s Court on enhancing leadership and direction in the fight against IUU fishing and in promoting sustainable fisheries development.

Deputy Minister Tien shared that these efforts have not only led to significant progress but also demonstrate Vietnam’s strong commitment to protecting aquatic resources and advancing international integration. At the same time, they contribute to raising awareness across society, especially among fishermen, about sustainable fisheries practices.

“The Government of Vietnam, as well as the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, considers addressing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing a pivotal task - one that determines the sustainable development of Vietnam’s fisheries sector. In the time ahead, we will continue to intensify our efforts to maintain and further improve the results achieved, aiming to lift the ‘yellow card’ warning and build a sustainable and responsible fisheries industry”, said Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien.

In response to the Ministry’s remarks, Director-General Charlina Vitcheva expressed high appreciation for Vietnam’s strong efforts and the positive outcomes in implementing anti-IUU measures in recent times.“DG-MARE is fully committed to continuing close cooperation with Vietnam to thoroughly address IUU fishing issues and work toward the early removal of the yellow card warning,” said Ms. Charlina Vitcheva “At the same time, both sides should further enhance cooperation in developing a sustainable fisheries sector, promoting the blue and green economy in line with international commitments and modern development trends.”

As part of the visit, the Directorate of Fisheries held a technical working session with the IUU Inspection Unit of the Directorate-General for Maritime Affairs and Fisheries under the European Commission. The discussions focused on updating and reviewing the progress made in implementing the European Commission’s recommendations aimed at lifting the IUU “yellow card” imposed on Vietnam’s seafood sector.