Abstract
This research contributes to the development of Vietnam's blue economy by providing an in-depth analysis of the challenges in state management of the maritime sector in the Gulf of Tonkin. The study identifies three main groups of challenges: (1) The legal framework for controlling pollution from ships is incomplete; (2) Inter-regional coordination in port management is limited; (3) The enforcement and monitoring capacity of state agencies needs to be enhanced. The research proposes specific solutions, including the development and improvement of legal documents on the marine environment, the establishment of effective cooperation mechanisms between localities, and increased investment in human resource training and equipment for management agencies. The research findings provide a scientific basis for policy making and the implementation of effective management measures, contributing to the sustainable development of the maritime industry and the blue economy in the Gulf of Tonkin.