In recent days, the atmosphere surrounding the upcoming 14th National Party Congress has been clearly reflected in the daily lives of coastal fishers.

On vessels preparing to head out to sea or returning after long voyages, conversations about the Congress, the country’s future, and major guidelines and policies are frequently shared, marked by confidence and high expectations. For fishers in Dak Lak, that confidence is closely tied to their livelihoods and the long-term stability of a traditional occupation that has sustained generations.

Fishers in Phu Yen ward sharing their views with Alternate Member of the Party Central Committee and Secretary of the Provincial Party Committee Luong Nguyen Minh Triet, expressing their hope for continued State support to confidently venture offshore.

Beyond hopes for more practical support for production, Dak Lak fishers also expect the 14th National Party Congress to issue major, strategic decisions to drive socio-economic development, including the marine economy and coastal tourism. For them, well-grounded and practical policies serve as a reliable foundation to venture offshore with confidence and remain at sea for extended periods.

Huynh Duc Hoai, owner of fishing vessel PY96364TS in Phu Yen ward, said that weather conditions have become increasingly unpredictable while operating costs continue to rise, prompting strong expectations for preferential credit support to invest in vessels and fishing gear. He also expressed hope that the “yellow card” warning would soon be lifted to help stabilise seafood prices and improve incomes for fishers. These expectations are shared by thousands of fishers who continue to earn their livelihoods at sea day and night.

According to statistics, Dak Lak province currently has more than 2,500 active fishing vessels. Alongside efforts to boost production, provincial authorities are implementing a range of coordinated measures to strengthen discipline in fisheries management and combat illegal, unreported and unregulated (IUU) fishing, identified as a key requirement ahead of the fifth inspection by the European Commission (EC).

Dao Quang Minh, Head of the Sub-department of Fisheries, Seas and Islands, said the sector is moving towards sustainable development, with a focus on improving product quality and added value. He expressed hope that the 14th National Party Congress would deliver appropriate decisions and timely support policies to further motivate the fisheries sector, reinforcing its role and position within the local economic structure.

The 14th National Party Congress is widely expected to usher in a new development era for the country. With a long-standing tradition of resilience and perseverance at sea, combining economic development with the safeguarding of maritime sovereignty, fishers in Dak Lak are placing full confidence in the success of the Congress. They believe that the major decisions shaped at the Congress will guide the country onto a new path of more sustainable and prosperous development.

Translated by K.T