WTO Global Fisheries Agreement Takes Effect to Curb Overfishing

A landmark agreement by the World Trade Organization (WTO) aimed at combating overfishing officially took effect after being ratified by at least two-thirds of its 166 member countries, including major players such as the United States, China, and the European Union. The deal represents the WTO's first environment-focused accord and sets binding rules to prohibit subsidies for illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing, as well as fishing of overexploited stocks, with the goal of sustaining global fish populations and marine ecosystems. While part of the agreement addressing subsidies linked to illegal fishing and overfished stocks is now active, a second phase focusing on reducing subsidies that contribute to overcapacity in large-scale fishing fleets remains under negotiation. Experts warn that subsidies increasing fishing capacity lower costs and encourage more extensive fishing, threatening fish stocks worldwide. The agreement also establishes a fund to assist developing countries in implementing these measures. Environmental groups and WTO officials have hailed the agreement as a historic milestone for ocean sustainability, though they emphasize the need for ongoing efforts to close remaining gaps and ensure effective enforcement.