Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha chairs the 24th meeting of the National Steering Committee for Combating IUU Fishing in Hanoi. (photo: VGP/ Minh Khoi)

Mr. Ha requested ministries and localities to focus on addressing all existing shortcomings, particularly issues raised by the European Commission (EC) regarding IUU fishing by December 15.

Data related to fishing vessels, violations, and management responsibilities must be objectively and transparently verified. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment, in coordination with localities, must provide invoices, confiscation records, administrative penalty dossiers, and information on violating vessels to prove that reported data are accurate.

The 24th meeting of the National Steering Committee for Combating IUU Fishing is held directly in Hanoi and online with other localities. (photo: VGP/ Minh Khoi)

Deputy PM Tran Hong Ha said: "Data must be interconnected and integrated for multi-purpose use. We must ensure that data is accurate, complete, clean, and real-time. The Ministry of Agriculture and Environment need to develop regulations on data use and management, clearly defining the authority of data use and management and the responsibilities of each user. Vessel owners must record logbooks, register data, track vessel routes, and declare their catch. The data will be the basis for issuing certification and permits. Thorough review needs to be carried out along the process."

The Deputy PM assigned the Ministry of Agriculture and Environment to review the Fisheries Law to ensure it aligns with EC recommendations and international standards.