On the journey through the windswept open seas, fishermen face numerous challenges. However, thanks to modern equipment, vessel insurance, and crew insurance supported by policies from Decision No. 48/2010/QĐ-TTg by the Prime Minister (Decision 48), fishermen are empowered to steer confidently, boost their livelihoods, and contribute to the protection of the nation's sovereignty over its sea and islands.

State support policies have provided fishermen with added motivation to venture further, safeguarding the country's territorial waters. Photo: T.V

I met fisherman Nguyen Xau, residing in Tho Quang Ward, Son Tra District, and his son Nguyen Loi in the cool weather of late September. At that time, they were preparing fishing gear and fuel, and finding crew members to embark on a new fishing trip in early October. As he gazed out over the sea, Mr Xau shared that his vessel operates using drift nets and squid fishing, targeting waters around the Hoang Sa Archipelago.

With a 420-CV fishing boat, each trip of the family of Mr Xuau lasts 15 days, requiring four crew members and costing between VND 50-60 million for fuel, food, ice, and crew wages, not to mention additional expenses such as vessel maintenance and equipment repairs caused by seawater damage.

“From January to May is the prime fishing season as this is when flying fish breed in offshore waters. From June onwards, flying fish move closer to shore, making offshore fishing less fruitful. As my vessel is restricted to offshore zones, the second half of the year relies heavily on luck. If the catch doesn't cover expenses, we face losses and sometimes have to take loans to cover the costs,” Mr Xau said with a sigh.

Continuing the conversation, his son Nguyen Loi added that fuel alone costs around VND 30 million per trip since their fishing grounds are over 140 nautical miles away, requiring more than 28 hours of travel. The support from Decision 48, such as the Vessel Monitoring System (VMS), VX1700 communication device, and up to 100% crew insurance coverage, provides crucial peace of mind for fishermen risking their lives at sea.

“To sustain our livelihoods, my family had to invest in modern equipment, a cost of several hundred million VND, which was beyond our means. Fortunately, with VND 75 million in support for each of our four annual trips, totalling VND 300 million, we've been able to reduce financial pressures and reinvest in the vessel. Our revenue from fishing has since increased by 20-30%" Mr Loi revealed.

Sharing his thoughts on the profession, fisherman Le Dung, living in Xuan Ha Ward, Thanh Khe District, reflected on nearly 30 years of navigating the seas. Though fish stocks have declined over the years, State support has provided him and others with the necessary equipment to remain optimistic and driven in their maritime pursuits.

Mr Dung's 840CV vessel receives VND 100 million per trip, four times a year. Each trip, targeting mixed-species fishing, costs between VND 70-100 million. With a 6,000-metre net cast within a 7-nautical-mile radius, a minimum of seven crew members are required for a 15-day journey.

In recent years, finding crew members has become increasingly difficult. Without the full crew, the vessel cannot set sail, resulting in additional costs for keeping it docked. Thus, the financial support provided is a significant morale boost, helping offset losses when fishing trips are unsuccessful.

“In 2010, the first year I benefited from the support policies under Decision 48, it was a tremendous relief for fishermen like me. My vessel was equipped with a GPS system, a solar-powered battery to save on fuel, and a fish finder device, which increased our catch efficiency while reducing fuel costs. As a result, annual revenue increased by 40-50%, with profits of VND 500 million a year,” Mr Dung happily shared.

Similarly, fisherman Le Van Thien, living in Thuan Phuoc Ward, Hai Chau District, who owns two vessels with 800-825 horsepower engines, emphasised that the support provided is a lifeline for families dealing with substantial fishing expenses. It has also boosted his confidence in safeguarding maritime sovereignty and promoting sustainable fishing practices.

According to Colonel Ho Sy Hau, Deputy Commander of the City’s Border Defence Command, since the beginning of the year, 285 fishing trips have benefited from Decision 48. In the third quarter of 2024 alone, 269 additional trips and 263 crew members received insurance support. Over the years, the City’s Border Defence Command has also distributed national flags, portraits of President Ho Chi Minh, life vests, life rings, and legal flyers to fishermen, while encouraging them to avoid illegal fishing practices.

According to Da Nang’s Department of Agriculture and Rural Development, 579 out of 589 local fishing vessels over 15 metres in length have been equipped with a tracking system, allowing authorities to monitor their location and provide support in case of emergencies. In the future, the department will continue advising the Da Nang People's Committee to implement mechanisms and policies that support sustainable fishing.

In recent years, Da Nang has led the way in implementing policies and educating fishermen about legal regulations. This has given them the tools and motivation to continue their sea voyages. Each fisherman serves as a living testament to the defence of our nation’s sacred maritime sovereignty.

Reporting by TUONG VY- Translating by TRUC VY