Two Tourists Fined for Collecting Over 10kg of Coral in Nha Trang

Two tourists in Nha Trang, a coastal city in central Vietnam, are facing fines of VND 25 million (approximately $1,000 USD) each for collecting over 10kg of coral. The incident occurred at Hon Chong beach, an area designated for the protection and restoration of coral reefs. Following the discovery on July 19, the Nha Trang Bay Management Board, in coordination with local authorities and relevant agencies, investigated the group of tourists. The group comprised 10 individuals from Dong Nai province, staying at a hotel in Nha Trang. Two male tourists, aged 50 and 62, admitted to breaking off the coral to take home as souvenirs. Their actions were witnessed and cautioned by local residents. During questioning, the two individuals stated they were unaware that the Hon Chong beach area was a protected zone. Approximately 10.5kg of Acropora coral, a branching species known for forming reefs resembling deer antlers or stag horns, was collected. The People's Committee of North Nha Trang ward has issued violation reports against the two for illegally harvesting aquatic species. These species fall under Group II of endangered and rare aquatic products and are listed in Appendix II of the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES). A representative from the North Nha Trang People's Committee confirmed, "Each person is expected to be fined around VND 25 million." The approximately 11 hectares of coral reefs in the Hon Chong beach area are under protection and restoration efforts. The Nha Trang Bay Management Board implements temporary protective measures, restricting activities during low tide, posting warning signs, and increasing patrols. However, the influx of summer tourists, coupled with limited management personnel, poses significant challenges to effective control.