Quang Ngai authorities suspend operations of unlicensed fishing boats
Quang Ngai province is set to implement multiple measures to prevent fishing vessels from violating foreign maritime zones. This urgent and high-priority initiative aims to tighten management and lift the European Commission’s “yellow card” warning.
The Quang Ngai People’s Committee recently issued an action plan targeting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing, focusing on stopping boats from entering foreign waters unlawfully to remove the EC’s “yellow card” designation.
The province prioritizes monitoring key areas and compiling a high-risk list of boat owners, fishermen with prior violations or frequent loss of VMS (Vessel Monitoring System) connection, and brokers involved in illicit activities, especially in Duc Pho, Binh Son, and Ly Son districts.
Local police are collaborating with the Border Guard and related agencies to enhance surveillance, detect, and intercept offending vessels within communities. The province also requires a thorough review and inspection of fishing boat registrations and markings according to regulations.
Currently, 326 vessels remain unlicensed (including those with expired inspections and 73 boats without VMS installed), and 202 vessels have lost VMS connection for over six months. These boats are concentrated at designated mooring sites and subjected to strict management measures such as sealing and close monitoring to prevent illegal operations.
The provincial Border Guard maintains 24/7 surveillance of fishing boats via the VMS system, issuing timely alerts when vessels approach maritime boundaries or lose connection. Violators face stringent legal penalties under the law.
VFM
