Fisheries Subsidies
IISD works to support the implementation of the 2022 Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies and ongoing negotiations at the World Trade Organization negotiations towards additional rules.
IISD's engagement in fisheries, trade, and sustainable development is geared towards shaping multilateral and regional trade policies that foster sustainable fishing practices. Our primary focus, because of its potential impact, is supporting progress on World Trade Organization negotiations to end harmful fisheries subsidies.
The imperative to eliminate harmful subsidies extends beyond environmental concerns; it's pivotal for creating a level playing field in international trade, ensuring fair competition, and preserving the livelihoods of millions dependent on fishing. Establishing regulations to curb these subsidies is an explicit target of the SDGs: Target 14.6 calls on governments to conclude these negotiations. Doing so would be instrumental in contributing to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) more broadly, by aligning subsidy policies with environmental sustainability, thus safeguarding marine resources and promoting sustainable profitability in 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.
Research and Publications
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.
Self-Assessment Tool for the Implementation of the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement
As World Trade Organization Members prepare for the entry into force of the new Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, this new tool aims to support their implementation efforts.
Fuel Subsidies to Marine Fisheries in India
This brief presents an overview of fuel subsidies to marine fisheries in India and highlights how possible reform could be informed by India's experience in reforming fossil fuel subsidies more broadly.
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