2024: A challenging year for Quang Ninh’s fisheries sector
The year 2024 posed significant challenges for Quang Ninh’s fisheries industry, with Typhoon No. 3 causing damages estimated at nearly VND 4 trillion (approximately USD 160 million), severely affecting cage aquaculture operations at sea. Tens of thousands of tons of seafood were lost, pushing many families into financial hardship.
Not only did fishermen lose their primary source of income, but many also fell into debt, having made substantial investments in fingerlings and infrastructure just before the storm struck. In response, Quang Ninh province swiftly implemented a series of support measures to revive production. After nearly five months of relentless efforts, five out of nine coastal localities - Quang Yen Town, Cam Pha City, and the districts of Van Don, Hai Ha, and Dam Ha - allocated marine areas to 470 individuals covering nearly 300 hectares. Additionally, temporary demarcations were assigned to 1,208 households, enabling them to resume operations swiftly. These measures provided aquaculture farmers with the security needed to rebuild their livelihoods.
Thanks to these efforts, Quang Ninh’s fisheries sector has made a remarkable recovery. According to Phan Thanh Nghi, Deputy Director of the Quang Ninh Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, the current aquaculture area, including marine farming, has almost returned to pre-typhoon situation. More importantly, farming facilities have been upgraded with more structured investment in farming techniques and the use of durable materials that can withstand environmental conditions, storms, and natural disasters. Local authorities have also actively supported fishermen in accessing preferential loan programs, enabling them to reinvest in production. Government policies on breeding stock, materials, and sustainable aquaculture technologies have gradually shown positive impacts, helping fishermen stabilize their livelihoods.
Despite the hardships, Quang Ninh’s total seafood production in 2024 is estimated to reach 166,000 tons, including 77,000 tons from capture fisheries and 89,000 tons from aquaculture. With a 250 kilometer coastline, the fisheries sector plays a crucial role in the province’s socio-economic development, providing employment for thousands of workers.
Words of encouragement from MARD leadership
On the morning of February 1, 2025, Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien visited Cai Rong Port in Van Don to meet and encourage local fishermen. He commended the resilience and determination of both local authorities and fishermen in revitalizing the fisheries sector after the disaster.
While acknowledging the achievements, the Deputy Minister emphasized key priorities for 2025: ensuring the availability of high quality breeding stock, developing integrated production chains from farming and processing to export, and strictly managing fishing fleets to expedite the removal of the European Commission’s (EC) ‘yellow card’ for Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. These steps are crucial for enhancing the export value of Quang Ninh’s seafood in particular and Vietnam’s fisheries sector in general.
Additionally, the Deputy Minister stressed that adopting advanced technologies in aquaculture is an inevitable trend. He highlighted that for the fisheries industry to develop sustainably, small scale farming must transition to modern, high tech models that enhance productivity and product quality.
Particularly, MARD leadership urged Quang Ninh to establish value chain linkages encompassing farming, processing, and exports, as the province is a major contributor to seafood exports. Simultaneously, authorities must tighten control over fishing vessels to facilitate the swift removal of the IUU ‘yellow card.’
Lunar yew year gifts: A symbol of solidarity
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Photo 2: Deputy Minister Phung Duc Tien visiting and presenting gifts to aquaculture farmers in Van Don district
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Beyond policy support, both national and local leaders have shown great concern for the welfare of fishermen. As Lunar New Year approaches, the coastal communities of Quang Ninh are filled with warmth as meaningful Tet gifts are distributed to fishermen and fisheries surveillance officers. The Quang Ninh Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, in collaboration with the Provincial Fisheries Association, organized the distribution of 102 Tet gift packages to underprivileged fishing households. Meanwhile, fisheries surveillance officers - who work tirelessly to protect Vietnam’s maritime resources - also received encouragement and support from local authorities.
Deputy Director Phan Thanh Nghi emphasized that in addition to gift distribution, a greater goal is to encourage fishermen and vessel owners to actively cooperate with the province in implementing EC recommendations. Raising awareness among fishermen about complying with IUU fishing regulations is critical to lifting Vietnam’s fisheries sector out of EC restrictions.
Beyond these meaningful Tet gifts, Quang Ninh’s Lunar New Year is also marked by the operation of “Zero-VND Trucks,” which deliver essential goods directly to struggling fishing households. Supplies of food, necessities, and even new clothes have helped many families feel the warmth of the community’s support.
Strategic goals for 2025
Looking ahead to 2025, the Quang Ninh Department of Agriculture and Rural Development has set ambitious goals, including completing the allocation of marine farming areas according to the provincial plan and issuing permits to eligible organizations and individuals. The department will continue its regular tasks, such as disease prevention and control in the agricultural sector, protecting and developing aquatic resources while combating IUU fishing, and expanding marine aquaculture.
Furthermore, local authorities will guide and supervise aquaculture production reporting, publish sectoral development plans, and establish aquatic resource conservation zones. They will also oversee the implementation of fishing port and storm shelter infrastructure projects while establishing the management board for the marine protected area Co To - Tran island.
Additionally, provincial agencies will focus on supporting organizations and individuals in building sustainable farming processes and providing assistance with breeding stock and aquaculture technologies. Strengthening linkages between aquaculture households, processing plants, and export enterprises will enhance product value and ensure stable market access for fishermen.
These Tet gifts and timely support policies not only bring warmth during the Lunar New Year but also serve as a driving force for Quang Ninh’s fishermen to look forward to the future with confidence. With strong government backing, local people can hope for a promising 2025 not only in production but also in their daily lives. After overcoming immense challenges, Quang Ninh’s fisheries sector is now poised for a stronger and more sustainable resurgence than ever before.
Hai Dang