China ratifies WTO deal on fisheries subsidies

Top fishing nation China has formally accepted an agreement to cut state subsidies for the fisheries sector struck by members of the World Trade Organization last year, the trade watchdog said on Tuesday. "As the world leader in marine fish catch, China's support for the implementation of this agreement is critical to multilateral efforts to safeguard oceans, food security, and livelihoods," said WTO Director-General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala in a statement.

China's Commerce Minister Wang Wentao said the country would "work with all members to push the agreement to enter into force" and work on the second phase of negotiations "in a positive and constructive manner".