The Committee on Fisheries Subsidies held its first meeting following the entry into force of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies on September 15, as required by Article 9 of the Agreement. The establishment of this committee is intended to create a forum where World Trade Organization (WTO) members can discuss their subsidized fishing practices. Members will have opportunities to raise and address questions and concerns about fisheries subsidies, with the goal of centralizing information and improving transparency.
The committee is tasked with annually reviewing how the agreement is being implemented and reporting its findings to the WTO Council for Trade in Goods. It will meet at least twice each year and will work closely with relevant international fisheries management organizations. In addition, no later than five years after the agreement takes effect, the committee will review its operations to determine if changes are needed.
Developing countries and least-developed country (LDC) members that have ratified the agreement can apply for support through the WTO Fish Fund, which will regularly report its activities to the committee.
Ms Lizano commented on her appointment as chair: "Today is a day to celebrate a historic occasion. I feel deeply honoured to be the first person to chair such a relevant Committee, which will oversee the first WTO Agreement with environmental sustainability at its core."