US Pledges $12.5M To Strengthen Vietnam’s Maritime Forces And Combat Illegal Fishing

United States will provide $12.5 million in assistance to Vietnam to bolster its maritime law enforcement and combat illegal fishing, the US embassy in Hanoi announced on Thursday. This support will enhance the capabilities of Vietnamese maritime agencies, provide small boats, and fund the construction of training facilities.

Vietnam has faced growing pressure from its neighbors and trade partners to take more decisive action against illegal fishing, particularly by Vietnamese vessels in the waters of surrounding nations. European Union, a key trade partner, has warned of a potential ban on fish imports from Vietnam if the country does not show significant progress in curbing illegal fishing practices. This has led to a sharp decline in Vietnam’s fish exports to the EU, one of its largest markets.

In addition to its maritime challenges, Vietnam has frequent confrontations with China over territorial disputes in the South China Sea. These tensions often involve coastguard vessels, fishermen, and law enforcement ships from both nations.

The US embassy reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a “free and open Indo-Pacific” and expressed its desire for a “strong, prosperous, independent, and resilient Vietnam,” reflecting the broader geopolitical interests behind the aid package.