WTO Extends Deadline for Fish Fund Proposals to 9 October
The World Trade Organization (WTO) has officially extended the deadline for submissions under the WTO Fish Fund call for proposals to 9 October. This extension provides more time for developing and least-developed countries that have ratified the Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies to apply for project grants aimed at supporting the agreement’s implementation.
The Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies, adopted to curb harmful subsidies that contribute to overfishing and the depletion of marine resources, marks a significant step toward sustainable fishing practices. To assist countries in implementing these commitments, the WTO Fish Fund offers financial support through grants. These grants are intended to strengthen national fisheries management systems, build capacity, and promote long-term sustainability in the fisheries sector.
The fund is open exclusively to WTO member countries that have ratified the agreement. Eligible applicants can use the financial assistance for a wide range of activities including legal reforms, monitoring and surveillance improvements, data collection systems, and training programs for fishing communities.
The WTO Fish Fund is backed by multiple international organizations, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD), and the World Bank, all of which are committed to promoting sustainable and equitable fisheries practices across the globe.
Interested countries are encouraged to visit wtofishfund.org for detailed guidelines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. With marine ecosystems under growing pressure, the Fish Fund represents a vital initiative to support environmental conservation while safeguarding the livelihoods of millions dependent on fisheries.
This extension offers a renewed opportunity for qualifying nations to secure the resources necessary to transition to more responsible fisheries management, aligning with global sustainability goals.
