Decree No. 49/1998/ND-CP on the management of fisheries activities of foreign individuals and means in the Vietnamese sea areas.

This Decree of the Government, made pursuant to the Ordinance on the Protection and Development of Aquatic Resources of 1989, regulates fishing by foreigners in sea areas "under sovereignty and sovereign jurisdiction of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam" and including the territorial sea, contiguous zone, the EEZ and the continental shelf. Article 2 defines "foreign individuals and means". Chapter II provides for registration of foreign organizations and individuals with the Ministry of Aquatic Resources. Registration papers shall be issued on the basis of investment licences, scientific or cooperation contracts, or fishery contracts approved by competent authorities. Article 10 prescribes requirements relative to keeping of registration papers, reporting, etc., assistance to inspectors, etc. Article 14 appoints competent marine control forces. Chapter III provides for the handling of violations of Vietnamese laws by foreigners involved in fishing activities and the powers of the marine control force. Offences include fishing the wrong area, use of explosives, etc., fishing for protected species, pollution of marine waters, and violation of regulations on aquaculture including trade in aquatic breeds and feedingstuffs. Articles 19 and 20 provide for seizure of fishing means and persons. (25 articles)