The proposed rules, building on the 2022 WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, aim to address a fundamental imbalance in the global fishing industry. They seek to level the playing field by giving developing nations with small-scale fishing industries — and minimal capacity-enhancing subsidies, if any — an opportunity to grow without facing overwhelming competition from heavily subsidized, industrial fishing fleets of wealthier nations.
Crucially, these rules introduce a much-needed shift toward better conservation efforts and the sustainable use of marine resources in both developed and developing countries. The provisions place greater responsibility on nations with heavily subsidized and technologically advanced fishing sectors, which has been a long-standing demand from many developing nations during negotiations. Under the draft framework, all major subsidizers and fishing nations will be required to pair risky subsidy practices with proper fisheries management. However, developing countries will be granted a transitional period to build the necessary management systems, ensuring that fishers’ livelihoods aren’t compromised during the shift.
Additionally, the latest draft includes safeguards designed to protect the interests of least-developed countries, smaller fishing communities, and artisanal fishers in developing nations. It recognizes their limited contribution to overfishing and, equally important, reflects their input during WTO negotiations. This ensures their industries are not unfairly penalized by the removal of subsidies.
**”Harmful fisheries subsidies are jeopardizing the livelihoods and food security of our communities.”**
In a joint communication released in June, over two dozen developing countries emphasized the critical importance of addressing harmful fisheries subsidies “to protect ocean health, the livelihoods of fisherfolk, and the communities they support.”
At this year’s United Nations General Assembly, global leaders adopted a Pact for the Future, focusing on improving global governance and multilateral efforts for the benefit of coming generations. The pact underscores sustainable development as a core multilateral objective and affirms commitments to take “ambitious action to improve the health, productivity, sustainable use, and resilience of the ocean and its ecosystems.” Finalizing these new WTO rules on fisheries subsidies will be a vital step toward achieving these shared goals.
The success of the 2022 WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies showcased the value of effective multilateralism and international cooperation in building consensus. We must now harness that collective spirit to finalize the current negotiations. Addressing harmful subsidies that drive overfishing and overcapacity is crucial. The livelihoods, food security, and cultural heritage of coastal communities worldwide depend on these reforms.
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