The National Conference on Responsible Fisheries in Viet Nam (Hanoi, 29-30 September 2003) was organized by the Ministry of Fisheries of Viet Nam in close collaboration with the Research Institute for Marine Fisheries and the FAO FishCode Programme. The Conference was held in the context of increasing problems faced by fisherfolk in maintaining and improving their livelihoods through coastal and offshore fisheries. Some coastal fish resources in particular are heavily over-exploited. The Conference aimed to build awareness among national policy-makers and resource users regarding overexploitation and its consequences, facilitate discussion on ways and means to promote a national transition to responsible fisheries, and identify and develop consensus on elements of a national strategy to achieve responsible fisheries management in Viet Nam. It was attended by 108 stakeholders, representing local and commercial fisheries interests, national and provincial government bodies, bilateral development assistance agencies and international organizations. Participants obtained an overview of the status of the Vietnamese fisheries resources from national and international experts and discussed coastal and offshore fisheries management and the integration of fisheries into coastal area management based on the principles of the FAO Code of Conduct for Responsible Fisheries. Sound management of the offshore fleet and the strengthening of community-based management of the coastal fisheries were considered the most suitable solutions to current problems by all participants. Fisheries management should be based on an appropriate legal framework, include participation of all stakeholders (also stakeholders from other coastal sectors), and foster better coordination and cooperation among the stakeholders. In the transition to community-based fishery management it was seen as important that pilot demonstration projects be established and that the process be supported by a national strategy for responsible fisheries management. Issues such as the management of fishing capacity, closing of certain areas for fishing, establishment of marine protected areas, enforcement of regulations with regard to destructive fishing methods, search for alternative employment and re-training for fisherfolk were seen as necessary elements for inclusion in the national strategy.