NZ Backs WTO Fisheries Deal With New $150K Boost to Combat Unfair Subsidies

“The Agreement is about backing rules that stop unfair subsidies and make sure all countries are held to the same standards,” said Minister McClay.

New Zealand has ramped up its support for global fisheries sustainability and fair trade by committing an additional $150,000 to help implement the World Trade Organization (WTO) Fisheries Subsidies Agreement. The announcement was made by Trade and Investment Minister Todd McClay, bringing the nation’s total contribution to $310,000.

This renewed investment comes as momentum builds around the globe to enact new international rules that will prohibit harmful fisheries subsidies, especially those that encourage illegal or unregulated fishing and the exploitation of overfished stocks.

Promoting Fairness in Global Trade

“The Agreement is about backing rules that stop unfair subsidies and make sure all countries are held to the same standards,” said Minister McClay. “It’s in New Zealand’s direct interest to see this agreement fully implemented—especially in the Pacific, where many of our key partners operate and where our seafood exporters are active.”

New Zealand’s global seafood trade is valued in the billions, and the integrity of the international market is vital for local fishers and exporters. Subsidies provided by some governments allow overcapacity and overfishing, distorting global competition and hurting producers who fish responsibly.

The WTO Agreement levels the playing field by banning financial support for:

• Illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing

• Fishing of overexploited fish stocks

• Fishing in unregulated high seas areas

Minister McClay emphasized that New Zealand’s seafood industry already operates under high sustainability standards, and the WTO Agreement ensures that other countries must rise to similar expectations.

Nearing Global Implementation

The 2022 Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, adopted by consensus by 164 WTO member states, currently has 102 formal ratifications. Only nine more are needed before the treaty can enter into force.

“This is about protecting the future of fishing and ensuring global competition doesn’t come at the cost of sustainability,” McClay said. “Unfair subsidies distort global trade and undercut responsible producers like ours.”

New Zealand, an early supporter and one of the first contributors to the WTO’s Fisheries Funding Mechanism, is playing a key role in helping developing countries meet the agreement’s obligations. The new funding boost will support implementation efforts in Pacific Island countries, ensuring that New Zealand’s close partners in the region are equipped to comply.

Championing the Pacific and the Planet

The additional funding underscores New Zealand’s broader commitment to sustainable oceans, trade fairness, and regional development. Fisheries are a lifeline for many Pacific Island economies, providing employment, food security, and export revenue. Supporting these countries as they phase out harmful subsidies ensures both ecological and economic resilience.

As Minister McClay noted, “New Zealand will continue to push for the Agreement to enter into force and for negotiations on additional rules to conclude quickly.”

WTO negotiations are ongoing for a second phase of the Agreement, which would tackle additional forms of harmful subsidies and reinforce monitoring mechanisms. New Zealand is actively contributing to these talks, advocating for firm timelines and transparent enforcement.

Looking Ahead

Once fully ratified and enforced, the WTO Fisheries Subsidies Agreement will become the first multilateral trade accord focused on environmental sustainability. It marks a turning point in global efforts to address overfishing and depletion of marine resources.

New Zealand’s leadership in both financial and policy terms positions it as a key voice on the international stage—one that prioritizes responsible stewardship, regional solidarity, and competitive fairness in global seafood trade.