Strict control is needed to prevent fishing vessels from violating IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing regulations.

(GLO) - Combating illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing is not an immediate task but a long-term process linked to the goal of sustainable fisheries development.

Recently, the Gia Lai Provincial Border Guard Command has directed 6 coastal border guard posts, Border Guard Squadron 2, and 9 border control stations to strengthen patrols and controls at sea. Simultaneously, they have equipped 3 additional ships and 8 canoes to support patrol work, promptly preventing fishing vessels from violating foreign waters, contributing to the protection of aquatic resources and the sustainable development of the local fisheries industry.

Officers from the Tam Quan Nam Border Guard Station presented flags and portraits of President Ho Chi Minh to fishermen.

Strengthen propaganda and raise awareness among fishermen.

To ensure each fishing trip is safe and lawful, the Gia Lai Provincial Border Guard Command has implemented a comprehensive set of solutions for disseminating information and managing fishing vessels. At fishing ports, wharves, and on each vessel before departure, officers and soldiers directly explain regulations on fisheries exploitation, maritime boundaries, and regulations against IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing to fishermen.

Along with public awareness campaigns, inspections of fishing vessels before departure are carried out rigorously, especially checks of vessel monitoring systems (VMS), documents, and fishing logbooks. Cases of failure to maintain VMS equipment, failure to keep fishing logbooks, or signs of violating foreign waters are handled according to regulations.

The inspection of fishing vessels before departure is carried out rigorously.

From the beginning of 2025 to the present, border guard stations have coordinated with functional forces to effectively maintain the operation of 546 safe fishing boat groups with 2,267 fishing vessels and 9,602 fishermen participating in mutual support at sea, while also participating in reporting violations of laws and regulations against IUU fishing. The Border Guard also mobilized 6,230 ship owners to sign commitments not to violate foreign waters; organized 125 propaganda sessions for 5,875 ship owners, captains and fishermen.

Through awareness campaigns, fishermen's understanding has improved significantly. Many boat owners proactively check their VMS equipment before setting sail, keep complete fishing logs, and strictly adhere to permitted operating areas. Many fishermen also actively spread awareness among their fellow fishermen, contributing to the dissemination of law-abiding awareness within the fishing community.

Mr. Nguyen Van Tru, from Thang Kien village, De Gi commune, Gia Lai province, said: “The border guards regularly remind fishermen not to violate foreign waters and to strictly comply with regulations when fishing at sea. We always carry all necessary documents, monitor our vessel tracking devices, and fish only in the permitted areas. Complying with regulations not only avoids penalties but also contributes to protecting aquatic resources and the reputation of Vietnam's fishing industry.”

Strict control and severe penalties for violations.

Colonel Tran Tien Hai, Commander of the Gia Lai Provincial Border Guard Command, said that the unit has thoroughly implemented the directives of the Central and local authorities on combating IUU fishing; requiring units to uphold a high sense of responsibility and closely manage fishing vessels at risk of violating regulations.

Strengthen monitoring of fishing vessel operations at sea.

For cases of repeated or multiple violations, the authorities will coordinate with the Police and the Procuratorate to strictly handle them according to the law. At the same time, they will strengthen monitoring of fishing vessels operating at sea, effectively utilizing vessel tracking systems and communication equipment to promptly detect, prevent, and handle cases of illegal fishing in foreign waters.

Thanks to the synchronized implementation of various solutions, from the beginning of 2025 until now, no cases of fishing vessels or fishermen being detained by foreign countries for violating maritime zones have been recorded in Gia Lai province.

Lieutenant Colonel Pham Bao An, Deputy Head of the Operations Department of the Gia Lai Provincial Border Guard Command, stated: “The authorities strictly inspect and control, ensuring that 100% of fishing vessels meet the requirements before departing. Before setting sail, both the vessel owner and the captain must sign a commitment not to violate IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing regulations. Alongside awareness campaigns, violations are strictly dealt with to improve fishermen's compliance with the law.”

Captain Le Van Hoa, Head of the Mui Tan Border Control Station, Quy Nhon Port Border Guard Post, added: “When processing departure and arrival procedures, the authorities check all documents, personnel, and vehicles; and also check the signals of the vessel tracking device. Only vessels that meet all requirements are allowed to depart. In cases where the vessel tracking connection is lost for more than 6 hours, it will be verified and handled according to regulations.”

Each fishing trip today not only carries the aspiration to earn a living but also demonstrates the fishermen's commitment to lawful fishing practices and avoiding IUU (Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated) fishing. Protecting aquatic resources is also about protecting the long-term livelihoods of fishermen and the reputation of Vietnam's fisheries in the international market.

Source: https://baogialai.com.vn/kiem-soat-chat-che-khong-de-tau-ca-vi-pham-khai-thac-iuu-post586602.html