Global Treaty Aims to Rein In Harmful Subsidies
The World Trade Organization’s Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies has officially taken effect, representing the first global effort to limit funding that drives overfishing. After nearly two decades of negotiations, the treaty requires member nations to halt subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing.
Experts describe it as a potential breakthrough for ocean conservation, but they stress that practical implementation will determine its true impact.
Fish Populations Poised for Recovery if Rules Hold
According to Megan Jungwiwattanaporn of The Pew Charitable Trusts, fish populations now have a genuine chance to rebound. In 1975, just 10 percent of fish stocks were overexploited — today, that figure has risen to nearly 38 percent.
The new treaty could reverse decades of decline by targeting subsidy-driven overfishing. However, she cautions that only strong enforcement and transparency will translate promises into measurable recovery across global fisheries.
WTO’s First Environmental Treaty Faces Next Phase
Tristan Irschlinger from the International Institute for Sustainable Development notes that this is only the first phase, known as “Fish 1.” A second round, “Fish 2,” aims to tackle subsidies that fuel overcapacity and unsustainable fishing practices.
These discussions have stalled due to political divisions, with little progress expected before the 2026 ministerial conference. Without Fish 2, many harmful subsidies could remain untouched, limiting the deal’s effectiveness in curbing long-term damage.
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Implementation and Transparency Are Crucial Tests
For Daniel Skerritt of Oceana, the focus now shifts to execution. Ratifying countries must not only end certain subsidies but also disclose detailed data about their subsidy programs. The agreement’s new “Fish Fund” will assist developing nations with compliance, ensuring fairness in enforcement.
Transparent reporting, Skerritt says, will reveal whether major subsidisers are genuinely reforming their practices or merely shifting financial incentives into different categories.
Latin America Sees Opportunity for Ocean Reform
Andrea Michelson of the Forum for the Conservation of the Patagonian Sea highlights the treaty’s potential for Latin America, a region heavily dependent on marine resources. She believes the deal offers a chance to redirect government funding toward sustainable fisheries and coastal resilience. Latin American nations, she adds, must implement the agreement with cooperation between governments, local communities, and scientists to ensure healthy, productive oceans for future generations.
China’s Subsidy Reforms Under Global Scrutiny
China, the world’s largest fishing nation, faces particular pressure to align with the new framework. WWF China’s Zhang Yimo notes that China’s removal of broad fuel subsidies in 2021 was a step forward, but stewardship incentives could still encourage overcapacity.
He recommends expanding subsidy eligibility to include small-scale fishers and workers transitioning out of the industry. These reforms would help balance economic livelihoods with sustainability goals under the WTO’s global standards.
Path Forward: A Test of Global Willpower
The WTO’s fisheries subsidy agreement represents both progress and a warning. While it provides a foundation for sustainable ocean management, experts agree that much depends on phase two and national enforcement.
The next four years will test whether member states can convert high-level commitments into measurable conservation outcomes. If successful, this landmark deal could pave the way for stronger environmental governance and more resilient global fish populations.
