Vietnam to finalize IUU tasks within one week to resolve EC yellow card

Across the country, provinces are intensifying efforts to lift the European Commission (EC) "yellow card" warning. Hung Yen is focusing on synchronizing irrigation and disaster prevention infrastructure, Hai Phong is tightening fishing vessel management, and Quang Ngai has launched snap inspections into IUU

prevention. Additionally, training sessions for fishermen have been organized in Vung Tau to ensure compliance with international regulations.

The meeting, attended by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, Minister of Agriculture and Environment Tran Duc Thang, and various local leaders, reviewed the progress of tasks assigned over the previous week. While some sectors showed dedication, the Prime Minister noted that several areas had seen little improvement since the last reporting period. He emphasized that all stakeholders must act with the highest sense of responsibility to achieve the dual objectives of removing the EC yellow card and transitioning the domestic seafood industry from traditional harvesting to sustainable, responsible aquaculture.

Looking ahead, the Prime Minister identified next week as a critical window to resolve all outstanding tasks. He called for objective and honest reporting to the EC, warning against superficiality or prioritizing appearances over actual results. Reports must utilize standardized data across all levels of government, particularly regarding issues previously flagged by the EC. He also introduced a reporting standard characterized by "six clears," which requires detailing specific actions, results achieved, remaining obstacles, root causes, individual accountability, and committed completion dates.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment is tasked with finalizing a comprehensive report to be submitted to the EC by January 5, 2026, while maintaining close communication with European officials to provide information as requested. The Ministry will also lead interdisciplinary inspection teams to various localities and propose management solutions for logistics vessels to address any legal gaps.

In terms of enforcement, the Ministry of Public Security will continue its investigation into 32 fraudulent swordfish shipments and the entities involved. The Ministry of National Defense is mandated to maintain maritime patrols in border areas and enforce strict port controls, ensuring no ineligible vessels go to sea. Starting January 1, 2026, the use of the electronic Catch Documentation and Traceability (eCDT) system will be mandatory for all vessel owners and captains, with Border Guard forces overseeing the digital declarations.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs will assist in refining the language and format of the report to the EC to meet international standards and will work to resolve cases of Vietnamese vessels and fishermen detained abroad, etc. Industry associations are also expected to play a pivotal role by ensuring businesses do not purchase seafood of unknown origin and by supporting fishermen in transitioning to alternative livelihoods.

Local governments must submit updated progress reports by December 31, 2025, and resolve all issues related to Vessel Monitoring Systems (VMS) and boundary violations. Prime Minister Chinh warned that provincial heads would be held personally accountable to the Party, the government, and the public if these deadlines are not met, urging the entire political system to engage in educating the public on legal compliance.