Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh received an inspection delegation from the European Commission (EC), led by its Director for International Ocean Governance and Sustainable Fisheries Fernando Andresen Guimaraes in Hanoi on March 19, 2026

At the meeting, the Prime Minister emphasized that efforts to combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing are aimed at meeting export requirements but, more importantly, at upholding national credibility. Vietnam has implemented a wide range of strong measures, including strict penalties and legal prosecution for violations such as illegal fishing and encroachment into foreign waters.

Fernando Andresen Guimaraes commended Vietnam’s strong commitment and its significant progress achieved in recent years. The inspection delegation noted in particular that Vietnam’s vessel monitoring system (VMS) has reached a 99% installation rate. Traceability of seafood products has also improved considerably, helping ensure that exports to the European Union meet legal requirements.

He affirmed that Vietnam is on the right track and said the EC will continue to accompany and provide technical support to help the country achieve its goal of sustainable fisheries management.