An Giang advances fisheries restructuring: Scaling down capture, expanding aquaculture
In response to declining marine resources and mounting economic pressures, An Giang province has launched a strategic restructuring of its fisheries sector, shifting focus from nearshore and offshore capture to more sustainable aquaculture-based livelihoods.
Offshore fishing no longer economically viable
At Van Thanh sluice in Hon Dat commune, more than 100 small-scale fishing vessels dock daily. Most are operated by artisanal fishers using traditional gear such as trawl nets, push nets, bottom dredges, and traps in inshore waters.
“Ten years ago, each trip could yield a net profit of VND 2-3 million (USD 80-120),” said Nguyen Van Chin, a local fisherman. “Now, we’re lucky to break even after covering fuel costs. We have no farmland and no capital to transition to other work.”
Even larger offshore fishing operations face increasing difficulties. A two- to three-month voyage can cost up to VND 2 billion (USD 80,000), including fuel, ice, food, and crew payments. With fish stocks declining, profitability has become uncertain. In many cases, vessel owners struggle to repay bank loans, with some facing severe financial losses.
In the face of mounting losses, some fishers have turned to illegal fishing in foreign waters, particularly in Malaysia and Indonesia. Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing continues to present a major barrier to Vietnam’s efforts to lift the European Commission’s “yellow card” warning. In July 2025 alone, the province reported five violations involving six vessels detained for unauthorized fishing activities abroad.
Strategic shift: Reducing fleet size, promoting aquaculture
According to Le Huu Toan, Director of An Giang’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the province is accelerating a transition toward aquaculture while downsizing its capture fleet and developing alternative livelihoods for coastal communities.
Since 2021, a total of 1,660 fishing vessels have been decommissioned, primarily under-12-meter boats operating in nearshore waters. This includes 286 offshore vessels previously engaged in trawling or tuna drift fishing.
Additionally, 37 vessels previously using banned fishing gear have converted to legal methods such as trapping, longlining, purse seining, or logistics support roles.
By 2030, the province aims to reduce its total fleet to 8,625 vessels. In parallel, local authorities are investing in marine resource rehabilitation and encouraging private-sector investment in offshore aquaculture.
The restructuring strategy is considered a necessary response to both ecological degradation and economic instability. By reducing fishing pressure, promoting sustainable aquaculture, and supporting occupational transition, An Giang seeks to protect marine biodiversity while ensuring long-term livelihoods for coastal populations.
VFM
