Zambia is on the brink of ratifying the World Trade Organization (WTO) Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, with the formal instrument already approved by Cabinet and currently awaiting Parliamentary endorsement. Once passed, the country will officially lodge the instrument with the WTO, becoming one of the 111 member states needed for the agreement to come into full effect.
President Hakainde Hichilema has been a vocal advocate for the ratification, pushing for Zambia to play a more active role in global trade reform and sustainable development. The move aligns with Zambia’s broader economic and environmental strategies, particularly as the country seeks to position itself as a responsible participant in international economic governance.
Vice President Dr. W.K. Mutale-Nalumango, who recently met with WTO Director-General Dr. Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala, shared insights from their high-level conversation. “I was glad to have a conversation around this matter with WTO Director General Ngozi Okonjo-Iweala who has expressed happiness on the strides Zambia has made to ensure that the instrument is ratified and lodged,” the Vice President said.
Dr. Okonjo-Iweala reportedly praised Zambia’s progress and reaffirmed the importance of the agreement, which aims to curb harmful fisheries subsidies that contribute to overfishing and the depletion of global marine resources. The deal, adopted in June 2022, represents a landmark in WTO negotiations, addressing both environmental concerns and fair trade practices.
Vice President Mutale-Nalumango also highlighted the WTO’s appreciation for President Hichilema’s broader leadership on economic reforms. “I was further glad to hear how WTO holds the President of the Republic of Zambia and government in high esteem on the economy, particularly for its critical approach on mineral deals with the global market,” she said.
The Fisheries Subsidies Agreement, once ratified by the necessary number of WTO member states, will prohibit subsidies that contribute to illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing. It also includes measures to ensure sustainability and transparency in subsidy programs.
Zambia’s ratification would signal its commitment to sustainable economic practices and responsible resource management, strengthening its international standing and reinforcing efforts to protect marine ecosystems.
With Parliament expected to deliberate on the instrument soon, the country’s final step in the process could help push the agreement closer to full implementation. Stakeholders both at home and abroad are watching closely, recognizing the significance of Zambia’s participation in this historic global accord.