Fishing boats are anchored at An Thoi port (photo: VOV)

Phu Quoc has more than 2,000 fishing boats between 6 and 12 meters in length. 13 boats that are past their expiration date and classified as missing have been notified for deregistration. 206 of 208 vessels longer than 15 meters have installed vessel monitoring systems (VMS). During an IUU crackdown from November 5 to 30, local authorities are coordinating with the police, border guards, and other forces to identify “three-no” vessels, which are banned from sailing until all documentation is completed.

Border Guard forces have deployed ships and speedboats for coastal patrols. Upon detecting a “three-no” vessel, officers will mark it with a sign reading “Fishing vessel not eligible for operation” and tow it to a designated point. Anchoring an unregistered or non-compliant vessel is prohibited at some ports.

Phu Quoc authorities patrol and check fishing boats anchored on Duong Dong River (Photo: VOV)

Nguyen Le Quoc Toan, Vice Chairman of the Phu Quoc Special Zone People’s Committee, said: “We have identified specific mooring coordinates for ‘three-no’ vessels, confiscated fishing gear, and completely banned them from setting out.”

Beyond strict enforcement, Phu Quoc is also strengthening comprehensive management of its fishing fleet, from registration and licensing to ensuring full installation of VMS equipment.

Major Tran Quoc Phu, Political Commissar of Ganh Dau Border Guard Station said: “We conduct a range of measures including direct inspection of each vessel, awareness-raising, robust monitoring, and enforcement to prevent violations of IUU regulations.”

At An Thoi and Duong Dong port, communication through social media, public loudspeakers, and on-site banners has been expanded. Local social organizations are also increasing training sessions for fishermen on IUU prevention.