Northern coastal province Quang Ninh has unveiled a plan to phase out hundreds of fishing vessels as part of a broader restructuring of its marine sector aimed at protecting fish stocks and marine ecosystems while securing long-term livelihoods for fishermen.
Under the 2026-2030 roadmap, the province plans to reduce its fleet by 862 vessels, with an average of about 172 boats exiting the industry each year. The move forms part of a scheme to convert certain fishing practices deemed harmful to aquatic resources and the marine environment, gradually eliminating destructive gears and encouraging a shift to more sustainable methods or alternative service and production sectors.
The bulk of the cuts will target nearshore waters, where 840 vessels measuring between 6 and under 12 metres are set to be withdrawn. Most operate gillnets, trawls and “bat quai” trap nets, methods authorities say exert heavy pressure on juvenile fish stocks. In midshore areas, 18 vessels between 12 and under 15 metres will be reduced, while four offshore vessels over 15 metres, engaged in wide-impact fishing activities, will also be phased out.
Beyond 2030, Quang Ninh aims to streamline and modernise its fleet, promoting responsible fishing practices and improved management.
Van Don district, home to the province’s largest concentration of fishing vessels, is rolling out the transition in tandem. Local authorities are reviewing and classifying fishermen to tailor vocational training programmes, while providing technical assistance and concessional loans.
High-tech marine aquaculture and experiential tourism models are being expanded to help fishermen shift from capture fisheries to farming and marine services, in what officials describe as a strategy to keep communities economically tied to the sea without relying on extractive practices.
Alongside livelihood support, the province is stepping up patrols and enforcement, pledging strict action against illegal fishing, operations in unauthorized waters and the use of banned gear.
The plan marks a concrete step in Quang Ninh’s green growth strategy, prioritising marine ecosystem recovery over short-term extraction and steering the province toward a more sustainable and responsible ocean economy.
VFM
