(VOVWORLD) - The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development will instruct provinces and cities to bolster their oversight of offshore fishing vessels while working with agencies to ensure that Vietnamese fishing vessels operate in full compliance with regulations aimed at curbing illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing.
Deputy Minister of Agriculture and Rural Development Phung Duc Tien made the statement at a moment when Vietnam's seafood exports to the EU, valued at nearly 500 million USD, could be barred from entering the EU market if Vietnam were to receive an IUU red card.
Mr. Tien said that the primary focus must be on preventing fishing vessels from violating foreign waters.
"It is imperative to establish a robust system that traces the origin of all seafood products. When exporting, comprehensive records are essential, covering the entire journey from the moment of catch through delivering to the final markets," he added.