Hanoi: As Vietnam intensifies efforts to have the European Commission’s (EC) “yellow card” warning against Vietnamese seafood exports for illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing lifted, Ho Chi Minh City is making strides in applying digital technologies to improve fisheries management and transparency. Across the city’s coastal communities, local authorities are adopting specialised digital applications to manage fishing vessels, monitor catch data, and support traceability efforts. These tools not only streamline administrative procedures but also help fishermen comply with national regulations and EC recommendations.

According to Vietnam News Agency, the implementation of digital technologies is part of a broader initiative to enhance the sustainability and legality of Vietnam’s fishing industry. By integrating technology into fisheries management, Ho Chi Minh City aims to create a more transparent and accountable system. This approach is expected to contribute to the lifting of the EC’s “yellow card” and restore the reputation of Vietnamese seafood in international markets.

The digital applications being used include systems for real-time monitoring of fishing activities and databases for storing and sharing catch information. These technologies facilitate better communication between fishermen and authorities, ensuring that all parties are informed of regulations and best practices. The city hopes that these efforts will not only address the current challenges posed by IUU fishing but also lay the groundwork for a more sustainable future in the fishing sector.