The police seize 49kg of red-claw crayfish in the northern mountainous province of Lạng Sơn. — VNA/VNS Photo Thái Thuần

HÀ NỘI — Deputy Prime Minister Trương Hòa Bình has asked concerned ministries to check and clarify press reports and information about invasive red-claw crayfish.

The press reported that significant amounts of invasive red-claw crayfish were still being offered for sale on the domestic market.

Red-claw crayfish is an invasive species and imports of the species were banned in 2013. However, it continues to be available for sale.

Deputy PM Bình, who is also head of the National Steering Committee for fighting against smuggling, commercial fraud and counterfeit goods, asked the Ministry of Finance to oversee the work.

The ministry will collaborate with the ministries of Agriculture and Rural Development, Industry and Trade, and National Defence to conduct inspections.

The ministries must define responsibilities of concerned organisations and individuals on the case to mete out proper punishments based on the laws, and report the investigation results to the Deputy PM. — VNS