Zambia Formally Embraces Global Fisheries Sustainability with Acceptance of WTO Agreement
Geneva, Switzerland – In a significant step towards bolstering sustainable fishing practices and fostering fairer trade, Zambia has formally accepted the World Trade Organization’s (WTO) landmark Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. The official notification was made on July 14, 2025, marking a pivotal moment for the landlocked nation and reinforcing the global commitment to responsible fisheries management.
This voluntary acceptance signifies Zambia’s dedication to aligning its national policies with the WTO’s overarching goal of eliminating certain fisheries subsidies that contribute to overcapacity and overfishing, while also addressing the critical issue of illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. While Zambia’s direct engagement in marine fishing is limited, its accession underscores a profound understanding of the interconnectedness of global aquatic resources and the importance of international cooperation.
The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted by WTO members in June 2022, represents a historic achievement in multilateral trade negotiations. It is the first WTO agreement since the establishment of the organization in 1995 that directly targets a specific industry and is dedicated to environmental sustainability. The agreement prohibits subsidies that contribute to overfishing, overcapacity, and IUU fishing, and also includes provisions for special and differential treatment for developing and least-developed countries.
For Zambia, a nation deeply reliant on its inland fisheries for food security and livelihoods, this commitment to global sustainability standards is particularly meaningful. By embracing the agreement, Zambia demonstrates a proactive approach to safeguarding its valuable freshwater ecosystems and ensuring the long-term viability of its fishing sector. This includes a commitment to strengthening domestic governance and regulatory frameworks related to fishing activities, even within its landlocked context.
The acceptance of the Agreement is not merely a symbolic gesture but carries tangible implications for international trade in fish and fish products. It aims to create a more level playing field for fishers and businesses, discouraging harmful subsidies that distort markets and undermine sustainable practices. For countries that are significant exporters and importers of fish, this agreement is expected to lead to more predictable and transparent trading environments.
Zambia’s decision to formally accept the Agreement positions it as a responsible global citizen, actively participating in the collective effort to protect marine and freshwater resources for future generations. This proactive stance is likely to be well-received by international partners and may open doors for enhanced cooperation in areas such as fisheries management, capacity building, and sustainable development initiatives.
As the global community continues to grapple with the challenges of climate change and resource depletion, Zambia’s commitment to the WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies serves as an encouraging example of how nations, regardless of their geographical proximity to vast oceans, can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable global trading system. The WTO looks forward to working with Zambia and all its members to ensure the effective implementation of this crucial agreement.
Zambia formally accepts WTO Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies
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