Empty baskets and trays pile up at a fish market in Binh Dinh Province as fishermen refrain from going out to sea, fearing harassment by Chinese patrol boats

The Vietnam Fisheries Association Monday requested the government and the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development to take measures to assist fishermen fishing in Vietnamese waters.

The fishing ban by China has hurt fishermen amidst an abundant fishing season, the association said.

There have been several cases of fishermen fishing in Vietnam’s seas being harassed, or having their oil and catch seized unreasonably, it said.

The Chinese actions have frightened fishermen who are afraid to head out to sea anymore, the association said.

It suggested the government and concerned agencies implement measures to ensure fishermen can safely fish in Vietnamese waters and asked China to compensate duly for any damage caused by their ships to local fishermen.

It also asked the government to issue instructions that require fishermen to work in groups, and have sufficient communication equipment to inform border guards and concerned authorities about any incidents.

The association also said it opposes China’s fishing ban and its seizure of Vietnamese fishing vehicles and their crew when the latter are fishing in Vietnamese waters.

Reported by Quang Duan