In anticipation of the upcoming 13th ministerial conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) scheduled for February 26–29 in the UAE, India has put forth a proposal urging the WTO to establish a permanent carve-out for nations engaged in low-income fishing. The aim is to safeguard the livelihoods of impoverished fishermen facing challenges in the global fishing industry.
India’s submission to the WTO emphasizes the significance of special provisions to shield the interests of poor fishermen and address concerns related to food security. The proposal asserts that exemptions should apply regardless of geographical limitations or the specific activities undertaken by such fishermen. India argues that national authorities should be responsible for determining what qualifies as low-income, resource-poor, or livelihood fishing and related activities.
One key aspect of India’s proposal addresses government-to-government payments for access rights, suggesting that these transactions should be categorized as subsidies. India contends that scrutinizing such payments is crucial to ensuring fair practices in the fishing sector.
The proposal acknowledges that access arrangements can be advantageous for certain WTO members, particularly in developing countries and poorer nations. However, India raises concerns about excluding subsidies linked to the transfer of access rights to vessels, characterizing it as a “blank cheque” for distant water fishing nations operating in the exclusive economic zones or high seas of other countries.
As the WTO gears up for its ministerial meeting next month, India’s proposal adds a significant dimension to the ongoing discussions surrounding global trade policies, with a focus on promoting fairness and protecting the interests of vulnerable fishing communities.