Conference on marine economic development held in Da Nang

A National Conference with the theme “Solutions in improving management efficiency Vietnam’s marine protected area system to sustainably develop marine economy in association with green growth” took place in Da Nang on October 19.

At the event
At the event

After nearly 10 years of implementing the Prime Minister's Decision 742/QD-TTg, dated May 26, 2010, the Vietnam marine protected area system is gradually being formed and put into operation, achieving initial results. Notably, marine conservation is being maintained, creating favorable conditions for the sustainable development goal of Vietnam's fisheries sector.

Vietnam has become one of the leading countries in the world for producing and exporting seafood, with a total output of about 7.74 million tons and export turnover of the whole fishery industry having reached US$9 billion.

There are 16 marine protected areas which are gradually being established and completed, contributing significantly to the maintenance and protection of marine ecosystems and aquatic resources, and serving the purpose of conservation and sustainable development in the fisheries sector.

However, the planning and implementation of marine protected areas is still slow compared to the targets, mainly due to the limited budget. In addition, the system of regulations related to marine conservation management still lacks uniformity. The coordination between ministries, branches and localities has not been proactive and uniform. Some localities have not really paid attention to or invested in marine conservation. Meanwhile, the capacity and experience of the contingent of employees participating in conservation work is still limited.

In order to achieve good results in the establishment and management of the marine protected area system in the coming time, ministries, branches and localities should make efforts to improve the livelihoods of the communities living in and near marine protected areas, with the aim to encourage them to participate in marine protected area management. It is necessary to support the management board in implementing the management plan, contributing to reducing the pressure of exploiting natural resources and aquatic resources. It is necessary to have harmony in developing economy, marine conservation and tourism in association with protection of marine ecosystems; effective implementation of law and awareness raising communication.

The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development also requires the People's Committees of coastal provinces and cities and their units to consider the management of the marine protected area system as an important task that needs to be focused in its direction and implementation.