Today, the US announced signing of the World Trade Organization's (WTO) Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. The US is the fourth country to sign the deal, which will go into effect when two-thirds of the WTO's 164 members approve it.
The Agreement was adopted by members at the WTO's 12th Ministerial Conference last June and includes provisions to limit some harmful subsidies for fishing overfished stocks; subsidies for illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing; and subsidies for vessels fishing on the unregulated high seas.
In response, WWF issued the following statement from Alejandro Pérez, senior vice president, policy and government affairs:
"Overfishing is destructive to our oceans, ecosystems and coastal communities. Ambassador Tai and the US' quick action to sign this important Agreement provides the leadership needed to reduce harmful fishing subsidies and advance healthier marine ecosystems and stronger coastal communities. It is urgent for WTO members to expedite the domestic acceptance process so the world can be one step closer to achieving ocean sustainability."
