Labor Export and the Livelihood Diversification of Young Fishermen: The Case Study of Tinh Ky and Binh Chau Communes, Quang Ngai Province

Abstract

In the context of globalization and livelihood pressure, labor export has become a common strategy for young Vietnamese fishermen. The ethnographic field research in Tinh Ky and Binh Chau communes clarifies the impact of labor export on occupational structure and livelihood culture of fishermen. A question arises: why, despite the same trend of labor export, do the occupational behaviors after repatriation differ in the two localities? The findings reveal that after repatriation, there are two distinct occupational trends: some individuals switch to fishing logistics business, while others continue engaging in seafood harvesting. This contrast confirms the regulatory role of traditional occupational culture and social networks in shaping labor behavior. The study also identifies the process of livelihood restructuring and provides evidence for policies supporting youth workers, ensuring the balance between economic development and cultural preservation in fishing communities.