Flotilla 21 launches high-level emulation campaign against illegal fishing

An overview of the launching ceremony

The campaign aims to strongly implement solutions against IUU fishing, contribute to the removal of the European Commission’s “yellow card,” and protect sustainable fishery resources.

The emulation drive will last until September 2, 2025, with the goal of decisively preventing and combating IUU fishing. It aims to encourage, attract and motivate all collectives and individuals to unite, be dynamic and creative, overcome difficulties and fight against crimes and violations related to IUU fishing.

The campaign emphasizes the prevention of fishing vessels and fishermen from entering foreign waters for illegal fishing activities. It also seeks to ensure strict compliance with international commitments and regulations, particularly the requirements of relevant levels, sectors, forces and coastal local Party committees and authorities in preparing for the 5th inspection visit by the European Commission to Vietnam, with the goal of lifting the “yellow card,” promoting the protection, regeneration, and sustainable exploitation of marine resources.

Troops from a coast guard vessel under Flotilla 21 disseminate information for fishermen operating in the waters bordering Vietnam, Thailand and Malaysia.

Speaking at the launching ceremony, Colonel Phan Van Hieu, Deputy Commander of Flotilla 21, emphasized that “in order to properly prepare for the 5th inspection by the European Commission in Vietnam and move toward the removal of the “yellow card,” the entire unit, especially the vessels currently performing missions at sea, must focus on strengthening patrols and inspections in their assigned maritime zones. They must also closely coordinate with relevant units and local authorities to strictly handle violations, particularly encroachments into foreign waters. In addition, the Flotilla also needs to raise public awareness, encourage fishermen to strictly comply with regulations on fishing activities through programs such as “Coast Guards accompany fishermen” to broadly spread information among the people, especially fishermen, about Vietnamese and international regulations against IUU fishing.

Translated by Hue Chi