21 July 2026

India formally deposits instrument of acceptance for WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies

India's formal acceptance of the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies is a major multilateral development directly relevant to international trade institutions and national subsidy policies.

Notes

• India formally joined the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies.
• The agreement prohibits government support to illegal fishing activities and over-exploitation of stocks.
• It focuses specifically on subsidies related to marine wild capture fishing and fishing-related activities at sea.
• It was adopted by consensus at the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva in 2022.
• It is the first multilateral WTO agreement established with an environmental sustainability objective.

Questions

1. The WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies represents a landmark integration of environmental sustainability into global trade governance. Examine the core provisions of this agreement and discuss its significance for sustainable marine resource management. 250 words
   Attempt this — 250 words in 11 min

   0 / 250 words 11:00 Reset

Prelims

1. Consider the following statements regarding the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies: 1. It was adopted by consensus at the 12th WTO Ministerial Conference in Geneva. 2. It is the first multilateral WTO agreement with an environmental sustainability objective. 3. It applies exclusively to inland aquaculture and freshwater fishing. Which of the statements given above are correct?

   1. A 1 and 2 only
   2. B 2 and 3 only
   3. C 1 and 3 only
   4. D 1, 2 and 3

Syllabus

• Bilateral, regional, global groupings and agreements: impact on India GS2
• International institutions, agencies, fora: structure, mandate GS2
• Farm subsidies, minimum support prices, Public Distribution System GS3

Topics

• World Trade Organization (WTO) Disputes
• Trade & Development

Sources

• India joins WTO’s agreement on fisheries subsidies