Fisheries Subsidies
IISD works to support the implementation of the 2022 Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and ongoing negotiations at the World Trade Organization negotiations toward additional rules.
IISD's engagement in fisheries, trade, and sustainable development is geared toward shaping multilateral and regional trade policies that foster sustainable fishing practices. Because of its potential impact, our primary focus is supporting progress on World Trade Organization negotiations to end harmful fisheries subsidies.
The imperative to eliminate harmful subsidies extends beyond environmental concerns; it is pivotal for preserving the livelihoods of millions dependent on fishing, promoting a fairer fishing sector, and creating a level playing field in international trade. The Sustainable Development Goals explicitly target regulations to curb these subsidies: Target 14.6 calls on governments to conclude these negotiations. Doing so would be instrumental in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals more broadly, by aligning subsidy policies with environmental sustainability, thus safeguarding marine resources and promoting sustainable socio-economic benefits derived from fishing.
For years, IISD has supported governments in negotiating new rules on fisheries subsidies and facilitating their implementation. We provide impartial analysis and advice to help governments identify how best to shape those rules and how they can implement them to reform subsidies in ways that support sustainability in the fishing sector.
Analysis
The WTO and Fisheries Subsidies: Where are we, exactly?
What are the latest developments in WTO fisheries subsidies negotiations, focusing on marine conservation, community impact, and sustainable fishing practices? Tristan Irschlinger offers a comprehensive overview explaining key aspects of the agreement, ongoing discussions, and what’s at stake for global fishery sustainability.
Fisheries Subsidies: Will World Trade Organization members finish the job at MC13?
Tristan Irschlinger traces the future of the landmark fisheries subsidies agreement at the WTO by envisioning broader rules, managing the involvement of the largest players, and creating flexibilities for developing countries.
A Global Deal to Tackle Harmful Fisheries Subsidies: A look behind the scenes
In June 2022, World Trade Organization members reached a historic deal tackling harmful fisheries subsidies. We unpack how a global campaign by environmental non-governmental organizations and technical policy and legal advice from trade experts in Geneva helped make a difference.
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Research and publications
World Trade Organization Talks on Additional Fisheries Subsidy Rules
World governments are currently negotiating additional global disciplines to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. What new rules are being proposed?
World Trade Organization Talks on Subsidies that Contribute to Overcapacity and Overfishing: What's on the table?
World governments are currently negotiating new global disciplines to curb harmful fisheries subsidies. What new rules are being proposed?
The WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies: A Reader's Guide
This guide provides a clear overview of the World Trade Organization Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, explaining succinctly the rules and provisions that the treaty establishes.
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Recent events
Fish 2 Negotiations: A review of key steps in the process
A webinar to help negotiators get up to speed through a clear overview of the key steps in the "Fish 2" negotiations over the past 2 years.
Validation Workshop to Support Papua New Guinea’s Preparation for Implementing the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies
Workshop to present and discuss the results of IISD’s self-assessment tool to support Papua New Guinea in preparing for the ratification and implementation of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
The WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and Support for its Implementation: Workshop for Commonwealth small states
A hybrid workshop to support Commonwealth small states in making informed decisions regarding the ratification and implementation of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
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