Strengthening Port-Based Monitoring
Vietnam’s fisheries sector is a vital part of the country’s economy, and Da Nang, as one of the nation’s biggest fisheries hubs, plays a crucial role in ensuring compliance with the Fisheries Law and the European Commission’s recommendations to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. The Tho Quang fishing port, a key hub for thousands of offshore fishing vessels, has implemented innovative measures to monitor and control IUU fishing activities. For instance, vessel captains like Tran Ngoc Hien, who dock at this port, must notify port dispatchers one hour before arrival and submit their fishing logbook, detailing the time, location of fishing grounds, the total catch, and species harvested during the trip. To ensure the accuracy and completeness of the data, port dispatch officers use the national fisheries database (VNFishbase) and the vessel monitoring system (VMS) to verify the information. This process is further streamlined by the electronic catch documentation and traceability system (eCDT) app, which allows captains to update their data on their personal smartphone. By cross-checking vessel data with a list of vessels at high risk of IUU violations and coordinating with the fisheries surveillance representative office, the port ensures that no violating vessels can dock undetected. This multi-layered approach not only strengthens port-based monitoring but also fosters cooperation among various stakeholders.
A Model for IUU Prevention
The Tho Quang fishing port’s management board has set a precedent for other ports in Da Nang by implementing a strict identification and tracking system for fishing vessels. Each vessel now has a unique identification number, and this information is easily accessible to port personnel using the management software. This system not only enhances vessel management but also improves the accuracy of catch data. Port staff can quickly identify which vessels have been inspected, which have been fined, and which have been penalized for IUU fishing. This data-driven approach allows for more targeted enforcement and better management of fishing activities. For instance, the Tam Quang fishing port, located about 100 kilometers south of Tho Quang, has recorded over 3,300 arrivals of offshore fishing vessels since the beginning of 2025, with a total estimated catch of more than 4,800 tonnes. This port is also designated as a site for verifying the origin of seafood, making it a hub for seafood processing and export.
Enhancing Vessel Tracking and Monitoring
The implementation of vessel monitoring devices has been instrumental in improving vessel tracking and monitoring. Many vessel owners have installed additional devices to ensure stable and continuous signal transmission to the national fishing vessel management system. This technology not only enhances vessel tracking but also provides real-time information on vessel movements, location, and catch data. By using this data, fisheries authorities can more effectively enforce regulations and detect IUU fishing activities.
Cooperation and Education
The success of Tho Quang fishing port’s anti-IUU fishing measures is due in large part to close cooperation among various stakeholders, including port staff, vessel captains, and fisheries surveillance representatives. This collaboration has fostered an environment of mutual understanding and respect, where vessel captains are aware of their responsibilities and the importance of adhering to anti-IUU fishing regulations. The fisheries surveillance representative office has also played a crucial role in educating vessel captains about the regulations and the consequences of non-compliance. By providing regular training and awareness campaigns, the office has helped to build a culture of compliance among vessel captains.
Future Developments
As the fishing industry continues to evolve, ports in Da Nang are expected to play an increasingly important role in combating IUU fishing. The second phase of the Tho Quang port expansion project, worth 250 billion VND, is expected to be completed by the end of August 2025. This expansion will enable the port to accommodate up to 300 vessel arrivals per day and handle around 100,000 tonnes of seafood annually. The port’s modernization and expansion will not only enhance its capacity but also contribute to the development of sustainable fisheries in the region. By implementing innovative measures to combat IUU fishing, ports in Da Nang are setting an important example for other fishing ports around the world.
