Vietnam’s Phu Quoc tightens environmental, food safety measures ahead of APEC 2027

The administration of Phu Quoc Special Zone in An Giang Province, southern Vietnam and the provincial police department jointly held a ceremony on Monday to introduce the 'Joining Hands to Protect Natural Resources, Environment, and Food Safety on Phu Quoc Island' initiative.

Nguyen Le Quoc Toan, vice-chairman of the Phu Quoc Special Zone administration, said the island's rapid development and preparations for APEC 2027 have placed increasing pressure on resource management, environmental protection, and food safety, particularly as the island serves growing numbers of tourists.

Local authorities have stepped up public awareness campaigns, inspections, and enforcement related to natural resources, environmental protection, and food safety.

However, violations remain complicated, while some individuals, groups, and business households have yet to fully comply with regulations.

He emphasized that the initiative aims to build Phu Quoc into a model of urban safety and civility.

He urged businesses and residents to sign commitments not to violate environmental or food safety regulations, warning that violators would face strict penalties.

In the first half of 2026, more than 87 percent of the island’s population had access to clean water, while solid waste collection reached over 96 percent.

Authorities inspected 28 food businesses, penalizing four with fines totaling over VND35.5 million (US$1,360).

Meanwhile, 64 businesses signed pledges to comply with food safety rules.