Pacific Islands tuna fisheries: the fisheries subsidies debate

Abstract

This paper analyses the issues and attitudes relating to the fisheries subsidies?currently under consideration in light of the WTO negotiations?to identify their likely implications for tuna industry development in the small developing economies of the Pacific. The paper outlines the major types of fishing practices in the Pacific islands and argues that industry operators will be faced with increased management and operating costs. Development assistance for industry will gradually decline and competition between foreign and domestic operators is likely to increase with the re-location of foreign fleets to Pacific island ports. As the trade agenda evolves and negotiations continue to streamline trade policies, Pacific island participation in the various debates on fisheries subsidies and understanding their rights and obligations under the WTO regime is essential.