Vietnam speaks out about the US's refusal to recognize 12 seafood exploitation occupations

(Dan Tri) - Vietnam is ready to discuss and work with the US to resolve existing obstacles and continue to promote fair and sustainable bilateral trade cooperation.

On the afternoon of September 25, at the regular press conference of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs , Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang answered the press about the US refusing to recognize 12 seafood exploitation occupations of Vietnam under the Marine Mammal Protection Act (MMPA).

Recently, the US National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) has refused to recognize 12 Vietnamese seafood fishing occupations under the Marine Mammal Protection Act. Seafood exploited in these occupations will also be banned from being imported into the US from January 1, 2026.

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang (Photo: Ministry of Foreign Affairs).

According to Ms. Hang, on September 15, the Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade sent a letter to the US Secretary of Commerce, requesting that the Ministry and NOAA consider the decision to refuse to recognize the equivalent of 12 Vietnamese seafood exploitation occupations under the MMPA to avoid serious disruptions to bilateral trade.

The move by the Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade also aims to protect the livelihoods of hundreds of thousands of Vietnamese fishermen and workers.

The Foreign Ministry spokesman said that under the direction of the Government and with the support of localities, the Vietnamese seafood industry has made efforts to modernize, improve responsibility, and strengthen fisheries management.

Ms. Hang emphasized that in the coming time, on the basis of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, Vietnam is ready to discuss and work with the US side to resolve remaining obstacles.

At the same time, continue to promote fair and sustainable bilateral trade cooperation, ensuring the legitimate interests of people and businesses on both sides, according to Ms. Hang.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/thoi-su/viet-nam-len-tieng-viec-my-tu-choi-cong-nhan-12-nghe-khai-thac-hai-san-20250925174611383.htm