Hai Ha district in Quang Ninh, Vietnam, boasts a 35-kilometer coastline and approximately 23,620 hectares of sea and beach. The rich waters of Hai Ha are home to a variety of precious seafood, including shrimp, crabs, fish, cockles, and sea worms. This abundance attracts not only local fishermen but also those from neighboring provinces and even outside regions who come to exploit these aquatic treasures. To ensure the sustainability of their fisheries, Hai Ha district has been actively engaged in raising awareness about environmental protection, safeguarding marine ecosystems, preserving aquatic resources, and strengthening measures against illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) seafood exploitation.

The Fishing Community of Duong Hoa Commune

Duong Hoa commune, within Hai Ha district, is a thriving fishing community where two-thirds of the population is involved in the fishing industry. This locality also features a ship lock where fishing vessels congregate after their voyages. In recent times, the local government has established a dedicated team responsible for inspecting and controlling fishing vessels. Before setting out to sea, fishermen in the area are regularly briefed on regulations to ensure responsible and sustainable fishing practices.

Despite the efforts to reinforce inspections and combat illegal fishing and exploitation, Hai Ha waters remain a popular destination for fishermen from neighboring districts, towns, and cities within the province, as well as those from other provinces. This influx of fishermen poses significant management challenges for the region.

Enforcement Efforts in 2023

In 2023, Hai Ha district police escalated their efforts to patrol and control the fishing activities in their waters. They recorded and addressed 25 cases of fishing vessels violating IUU seafood exploitation, resulting in fines totaling over VND 177 million (approx. USD 7,000).

In the coming years, Hai Ha district remains committed to intensifying its inspection and prevention measures against illegal exploitation and fishing activities. These actions will be closely linked to the responsible management, protection, and sustainable development of seafood resources in their rich waters.