Fisheries Subsidies and the World Trade Organization: A Concise History

Abstract

Fisheries play a critical role in global food security. Unfortunately, marine fish resources are significantly depleted, and widespread use of fisheries subsidies contribute to this depletion. Multilateral negotiations on fisheries subsidies began at the World Trade Organization in 2001 as part of the Doha Round. They have continued to this day with recent renewed emphasis. A successful WTO agreement on fisheries subsidies will be necessary for sustainable fisheries, food security, and the continued relevance of the WTO. Unfortunately, despite years of negotiations and a stable draft text, an agreement remains somewhat elusive.