DDG Ellard Calls for Swift Ratification of Fisheries Subsidies Agreement to Boost Global Trade.
By Caroline Ameh
Deputy Director-General of the World Trade Organization (WTO), Angela Ellard, has urged member countries to expedite the ratification of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, highlighting its potential to enhance the sustainability of global fisheries and provide a significant boost to the multilateral trading system.
Speaking at the launch of the OECD Review of Fisheries 2025 report, on Wednesday, DDG Ellard emphasized the urgency of the agreement, which aims to curb harmful subsidies contributing to overfishing and illegal fishing activities.
She noted that full implementation of the agreement would demonstrate a strong commitment to sustainable ocean management while reinforcing international trade cooperation.
Since its adoption in June 2022, the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies has been ratified by 89 WTO members, leaving 22 ratifications needed for it to enter into force. According to Ellard, achieving this target soon would be a landmark achievement, ideally celebrated at the upcoming UN Ocean Conference in June 2025.
The agreement prohibits subsidies to fishing activities that harm ocean sustainability, particularly those supporting illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing and fishing of overfished stocks. Ellard stressed that these harmful practices are major challenges to sustainable fisheries, as highlighted in the 2025 OECD Fisheries Review.
Ellard called on the remaining WTO members, including some OECD countries and accession candidates, to accelerate their domestic ratification processes. She also urged countries that have completed their ratification to support others by sharing information and technical assistance.
“Depositing your instruments of acceptance will not only demonstrate your commitment to the sustainability of our oceans, but it will also serve as an important boost to the multilateral trading system at an important and challenging time,” Ellard stated.
Once in effect, the agreement will unlock access to the WTO Fish Fund, which provides technical assistance and capacity-building for developing countries that have ratified the agreement. Ellard acknowledged the generous contributions of OECD members, which account for over 90% of the nearly USD 15 million pledged to the fund.
The WTO is preparing for a second wave of negotiations aimed at setting additional rules to regulate subsidies contributing to overcapacity and overfishing. The OECD Review of Fisheries 2025 plays a critical role in these discussions by offering evidence-based insights into global fisheries management and government support policies.
The report reveals significant progress, including a shift from high-risk subsidies like fuel support to less harmful measures such as income support. Additionally, OECD members have increased spending on fisheries management, monitoring, and surveillance. However, 65% of all fishing subsidies still pose a risk of promoting unsustainable fishing practices if not paired with effective management measures.
Ellard noted that the complementary roles of the WTO and OECD in fostering sustainable fisheries management and eliminating harmful subsidies. She commended the OECD’s efforts in producing comprehensive reviews that facilitate informed policy discussions among WTO members.
The call for swift action resonates as the international community anticipates the UN Ocean Conference, where progress on sustainable fisheries will be a focal point. The WTO aims to leverage this momentum to reinforce global trade systems while safeguarding marine resources.
The OECD Review of Fisheries 2025 provides extensive data and analysis on fish resources, fisheries management systems, and government support policies. It identifies key challenges facing the fisheries sector and suggests strategies for enhancing its economic and environmental sustainability.
The ratification of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is not just a step towards sustainable ocean management but also a strategic move to strengthen the global trading system. As Ellard emphasized, the collective effort of WTO members can lead to a more sustainable future for oceans and the millions of livelihoods that depend on them.
