China's fishing ban in East Vietnam Sea violates Vietnam’s sovereignty: agriculture ministry

In a recent directive sent to the People’s Committees of coastal provinces and centrally governed cities, the ministry responded to China’s announcement of its annual seasonal fishing moratorium in the region.

According to the Rural Agriculture Bureau of Sanya, China, the ban is in effect from 12:00 on May 1 to 12:00 on August 16 this year. It applies to waters north of latitude 12°00′N to 26°30′N, including the Gulf of Tonkin.

The ministry instructed local authorities to inform fishermen of China’s fishing ban while reiterating that the moratorium, unilaterally imposed within areas under Vietnam’s sovereignty, holds no legal validity.

Vietnamese fishermen are encouraged to continue operating in their country’s maritime zones and are advised to travel in organized groups or fleets to ensure mutual support and safety.

The ministry warned of potential aggressive actions by Chinese forces, including the detention of Vietnamese fishing boats during the ban period.

Fishermen are urged to remain alert and report any foreign violations in Vietnamese waters to relevant authorities.

Local governments were also directed to enhance monitoring through vessel tracking systems, issue timely alerts, and closely manage the movement of fishing vessels during this time.

Authorities must also promptly report any unexpected maritime incidents to the ministry’s Directorate of Fisheries via the hotline: 0815 886 188.