HCMC – Individuals and organizations found engaging in illegal fishing may face fines of up to VND100 million while the fishing vessel captains may have their certificates revoked.
Government Decree 38/2024/ND-CP, aimed at curbing unlicensed fishing, stipulates penalties for violations in the fisheries sector and is set to take effect on May 20.
According to the decree, violators may be fined between VND5 million and VND10 million for offenses such as failing to carry authentic permits or fishing in inland waters without authorization.
For those using fishing vessels between six and 12 meters in length without valid permits, fines range from VND20 million to VND30 million. Similar penalties apply to offenders using larger vessels for inland fishing without proper authorization.
Repeat offenders may face fines of VND60 million to VND100 million, with organizations subject to double the fines imposed on individuals.
In addition to fines, vessel owners may also face additional penalties, including the confiscation of harvested seafood and seizure of fishing equipment, depending on the severity of the violation.
