Following directives from the provincial People’s Committee and the Party Central Committee Secretariat, local authorities have mobilized inter-agency teams to ensure compliance as the province prepares for an upcoming inspection from the European Commission (EC).
In Phù Mỹ Bắc Commune, Vice Chairman Huỳnh Tấn Cường reported that two fishing vessels remain non-compliant with regulations on aquatic resource exploitation. One has been sold to another province but awaits ownership transfer due to a capital dispute, while the other is completing required documentation under guidance from local economic officials.
In Tam Quan Ward, Vice Chairman La Long Quyết said authorities have categorized vessels into three groups, first-time violators, repeat offenders, and high-risk operators, and updated the list of regularly active boats. All 27 vessels (25 over 15 meters and two under 12 meters) now possess valid documentation and voyage monitoring devices. However, local officials continue to require commitment agreements from high-risk owners and intensify outreach to prevent illegal fishing in foreign waters.
Quy Nhơn Ward has reported 19 converted vessels with non-compliant engines, 48 unregistered boats, and several lacking voyage monitoring systems. Vice Chairwoman Nguyễn Thị Minh Nguyệt said an inter-agency task force is conducting door-to-door visits and requiring vessel owners to deregister non-compliant boats, pledge not to go to sea, and submit weekly updates with photos and GPS coordinates of mooring sites. Non-compliance will face strict penalties.
Similarly, in Quy Nhơn Đông Ward, Vice Chairman Nguyễn Thành Danh said authorities are working to deregister converted vessels with unapproved engines. Until registration issues are resolved, these vessels must remain docked without fishing gear. Party members are assigned to monitor vessel locations, while high-risk offshore boats are required to keep voyage monitoring devices active 24/7 and report regularly to local authorities.
Provincial officials have also ordered heightened coordination with border guard stations to prevent non-compliant vessels from setting sail. Under current policy, any boat violating regulations must return to port and remain under official supervision.
Chairman Phạm Anh Tuấn of the Provincial People’s Committee emphasized a “final sprint” to ensure full compliance before the EC inspection, urging all localities to strictly enforce regulations and hold officials accountable for any oversight. Directive No. 32-CT/TW, issued on April 10, 2024, reinforces the Party’s leadership in eradicating IUU fishing and promoting sustainable fisheries development.
To maintain maritime order, the provincial police are working with border guards to monitor fishermen, address disruptive behavior, and handle violations promptly. Local authorities continue extensive public awareness campaigns to strengthen compliance and preserve lawful fishing practices.