Viet Nam has made ‘structural progress’ in push to lift EU yellow card

Since the EC issued the yellow card in October 2017, Viet Nam has rolled out a series of measures, from tightening the legal framework to overhauling fleet management and upgrading traceability systems.

- 

The yellow card has not yet been lifted, but the changes made in recent years are substantial and, more importantly, structural.

Our legal system has been updated with 11 new circulars and two decrees to bring regulations in line with on-the-ground realities. High-level political direction has also been crucial. After earlier guidance from the Secretariat, the Party issued Directive 32 in April 2024 to reinforce national leadership over IUU prevention and sustainable fisheries.

The Government followed up with its own resolution, and the Supreme People’s Court issued guidance on applying criminal penalties for illegal fishing and trading. Together, they form a coherent legal framework that supports enforcement and compliance. One major shift is the Prime Minister's direct oversight, including what he has called a ‘declaration of war’ against IUU violations.