Authorities inspect the operation of the vessel monitoring system (VMS) device on a fishing boat. (Photo: Thanh Hieu)

In his directive remarks at the event, Deputy Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Le Van Bao urged relevant units and localities to urgently conduct comprehensive self-assessments of all assigned tasks on combating IUU fishing, and to prepare complete, consistent and interconnected dossiers, documents and data.

These will serve to demonstrate to the European Commission inspection delegation that the province’s IUU prevention efforts have been carried out in a transparent, objective and increasingly effective manner, reflecting strong determination and goodwill.

More particularly, records of violations since 2024 must be thoroughly reviewed to ensure strict and lawful handling. Authorities were also instructed to closely manage vessels that are ineligible for operation, have expired registration certificates, are classified as high-risk, or have experienced prolonged loss of connection to the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS). Vessels failing to meet all required conditions must be firmly banned to sail.

A fishing port in Quang Tri province is busy with seafood trading as boats dock. (Photo: Thanh Hieu)

The provincial Border Guard Command will continue strengthening inspection and control measures to ensure that all fishing vessels leaving ports fully comply with regulations.

Vessels measuring 6 meters or more are required to pass through Border Guard Control Stations for eligibility checks and to enter and exit designated ports to declare and unload seafood products. Authorities are determined to prevent any non-compliant vessels from putting to sea for fishing activities.