Vietnamese Coastal Town Cracks Down on Unlicensed Seafood Markets

Authorities in Rach Dua ward, Vietnam, are intensifying efforts to curb the proliferation of unauthorized seafood markets operating along the beach. Following repeated warnings and public awareness campaigns, local officials have observed that the practice of spontaneous selling continues to disrupt public order and harm the environment.

Despite efforts to educate residents and visitors about the negative impacts of these informal markets, including noise, waste, and obstruction of public spaces, the problem persists. The ward's People's Committee has issued a plan for a concentrated campaign to address security, order, and environmental sanitation in the beach area. This initiative aims to systematically tackle violations such as illegal occupation of sidewalks and roads for commercial purposes.

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Today, the ward is conducting a campaign to remind people, but tomorrow (August 30), the Ward People's Committee will issue administrative violation citations to those who violate.

Officials have stated that during the enforcement drive, functional forces will combine public outreach with strict measures against violators. The focus includes guiding fishermen to properly store their equipment and addressing the sale of seafood, snacks, and street food directly on the beach and adjacent roads. Efforts will also target gatherings for cooking and eating, littering, and the encroachment on public thoroughfares that detract from the area's appeal as a tourist destination.

Phó Chủ tịch UBND phường Rạch Dừa, Nguyễn Hữu Nam, has directed relevant departments to inspect and definitively stop all cases of unauthorized seafood and snack sales on the beach and sidewalks. He emphasized that while initial actions involve reminders and documentation through photography, administrative citations will be issued starting August 30th for those who defy the regulations. This firm stance aims to restore the beach's intended use as a recreational area and improve its overall appearance.

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During the enforcement period, functional forces will combine propaganda and mobilization to gain the consensus and compliance of the people and tourists; at the same time, resolutely handle violations according to regulations.