A historic agreement by the World Trade Organisation (WTO) has come into force, setting new global standards for fisheries. For the first time, an international trade treaty has been concluded primarily on ecological grounds. At its core is the ban on the most harmful subsidies for fishing fleets, which significantly contribute to overfishing.
Ban on harmful subsidies
The agreement prohibits state support for fleets involved in illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, as well as subsidies for unregulated high-seas fishing. The goal is to reduce pressure on over-exploited stocks and steer the fisheries sector towards greater sustainability.
“This agreement secures the livelihoods of millions of people,” stated WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala.
The agreement also requires member states to report more transparently on their subsidies, disclose data on fish stocks, and take measures to rebuild overfished stocks. Environmental organisations worldwide have welcomed this unprecedented step.
Who subsidises the most?
According to a 2019 Marine Policy study, global fisheries subsidies amount to more than $1 billion annually. Among the largest funders are China, the European Union, the USA, South Korea, and Japan. Meanwhile, the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) warns that 35.5% of the over 2,500 assessed fish stocks are already overfished.
The necessary two-thirds ratification within the WTO was achieved after Brazil, Vietnam, Kenya, Tonga, Oman, and Mali ratified the agreement. The EU, the USA, and China have also expressed their approval. Notably, India and Indonesia have not yet joined – despite both countries having large fishing fleets and bearing significant responsibility.
Historic turning point with open questions
With this agreement, the WTO shifts its focus from mere trade issues to questions of sustainability. However, critical points remain: How effective will controls be in practice? And how strongly will states stand up to their own industry lobbies? Experts see the treaty as a milestone, but its success will depend on whether the provisions are consistently implemented.