The RPOA-IUU Secretariat was invited by Nha Trang University, Viet Nam, to participate in the Training on Fisheries Monitoring, Control, and Surveillance (MCS) held from 5 to 23 May 2025. Supported by the Australian Government, the course aimed to strengthen the capacity of fisheries officers in applying MCS tools to effectively identify and respond to Illegal, Unreported, and Unregulated (IUU) fishing. The Secretariat delivered opening remarks and presented the regional IUU fishing landscape.
The training covered key areas of responsible fisheries management, including health and safety, social and GESI considerations, as well as labour and welfare issues in fishing operations. The Secretariat’s presentation provided an overview of RPOA-IUU initiatives, highlighting the role of sub-regional groups such as the Gulf of Thailand, SESCS–SSS, and ATS in enhancing coordination, information-sharing, and joint enforcement.
Findings from a regional study were also shared, noting persistent IUU hotspots, financial losses, and common violations such as encroachment, license breaches, and illegal transshipment. The Secretariat underscored the importance of risk assessments and continuous training to address these challenges.
Progress in implementing RPOA-IUU core elements was discussed, including strengthened legislation, improved resource management, and cooperation with regional and international partners. Updates were also provided on countries’ status in key international agreements, including UNCLOS, PSMA, and UNFSA.
In line with the training objectives, the Secretariat emphasized MCS as a fundamental component of fisheries governance and encouraged strengthening data-sharing, improving working conditions in the sector, and advancing market-based tools such as traceability. The session concluded by reaffirming that regional capacity building remains a priority, with several collaborative trainings, workshops, and studies planned for 2025.