Fiji has joined a significant global initiative for marine conservation as the World Trade Organization (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies came into effect on September 15, 2025. This landmark agreement, activated during a special General Council meeting in Geneva, aims to curb billions of dollars in harmful fisheries subsidies that lead to overfishing and depleting marine resources worldwide.
WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala praised the agreement as a milestone for global trade governance, highlighting its focus on sustainability and livelihood protection. She emphasized that the Agreement demonstrates the positive impact trade can have on people and the planet.
On October 24, 2023, Fiji formally deposited its instrument of acceptance, joining other WTO members in committing to adhere to these legally binding rules. Fiji’s Permanent Representative to the WTO, Ambassador Luke Daunivalu, presented the acceptance document to Dr. Okonjo-Iweala, highlighting Fiji’s dedication to this global cause.
Conceived during the WTO’s 12th Ministerial Conference in 2022, the Agreement establishes historic multilateral rules that prohibit subsidies for illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It also bans subsidies for fishing overfished stocks and stops support for fishing activities in unregulated high seas.
In recognition of the unique challenges faced by developing and least-developed countries, the Agreement includes the creation of a special fund to assist these nations with technical support and capacity building for implementing the new rules.
Now that the treaty is in effect, WTO members, including Fiji, are expected to adjust their national policies to comply with these new obligations. This alignment is crucial for global efforts to protect marine ecosystems while strengthening the capabilities of small-scale fishers and coastal communities. The WTO is also preparing for additional reforms focused on overcapacity and overfishing, marking a vital next step in global fisheries management.
Fiji’s involvement highlights the country’s commitment to sustainable fisheries management, addressing overfishing, and safeguarding the livelihoods of communities heavily reliant on marine resources. This initiative not only bolsters environmental efforts but also ensures that small island nations like Fiji contribute significantly to international discussions on sustainable marine resource management.