Tonga Reaches WTO Fisheries Milestone With First Subsidy Notification

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala described transparency as a key element in ensuring that the agreement delivers real benefits for oceans and fishing communities.

Tonga has become the first country to submit a fisheries subsidy notification with direct support from the WTO Fish Fund, marking an important step in the implementation of the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies. The notification was officially submitted to the World Trade Organization on 3 June after government officials completed a workshop held in Nuku'alofa during May.

The submission represents more than a reporting requirement. It gives Tonga a clearer picture of its fisheries sector while helping authorities improve transparency around fishing activities, stock management, and international cooperation. Officials who participated in the workshop worked together to gather information required under the agreement, creating a stronger foundation for future reporting and policy coordination.

Pacific nations face growing pressure to protect marine resources

The achievement carries added significance for Pacific island countries, where healthy fish stocks play a vital role in food security, employment, and economic development. Harmful fisheries subsidies can contribute to overfishing and place additional strain on marine ecosystems that many communities depend upon for their livelihoods.

Under WTO rules, members participating in the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies must provide information about their involvement in regional fisheries organizations, the condition of fish stocks under management, conservation measures in place, and any records involving illegal, unreported, or unregulated fishing activities.

WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala described transparency as a key element in ensuring that the agreement delivers real benefits for oceans and fishing communities. She noted that Tonga's progress demonstrates how targeted support can help developing countries build the capacity needed to meet their commitments while promoting sustainable fisheries management.

Fish Fund expands support for developing economies

Tonga accepted the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies in September 2025 and is currently receiving assistance through a Fish Fund project preparation grant. The support program will continue until September 2026 and is expected to produce a detailed assessment of the country's needs along with recommendations for additional assistance.

Sione Vailala Matoto, Chief Executive Officer of Tonga's Ministry of Fisheries, said the country's first notification marks a significant achievement in its implementation efforts. He added that support from the Fish Fund made it possible to organize a national workshop and create Tonga's first fisheries subsidy inventory, helping strengthen institutional capacity and compliance with WTO obligations.

The WTO Fish Fund was created to provide technical assistance and capacity-building support for developing and least-developed countries implementing the fisheries subsidies agreement. The initiative operates through cooperation between the WTO, the Food and Agriculture Organization, the International Fund for Agricultural Development, and the World Bank Group.

Interest in the program continues to grow. The Fund's second call for proposals closed in May, with new grant recipients expected to be announced in July 2026. Contributions and funding commitments from 18 WTO members have now reached CHF 15.7 million, equivalent to more than USD 20 million, reflecting strong international backing for sustainable fisheries governance.