To Protect Aquatic Species and Small-Scale Fishermen House of Representatives Jumpstart Revision of World Trade Organization

Capitol Hill, Monrovia: The House of Representatives has taken a daring but significant step toward safeguarding Liberia’s marine ecosystem with the primary goal of supporting the livelihoods of thousands of small-scale fishermen by initiating the process of ratifying the World Trade Organization (WTO) protocol.

During its Tenth Day Sitting of the Second Quarter of the Second Session of the 55th Legislature, held on Tuesday, June 17, 2025, President Joseph Nyuma Boakai formally submitted the Protocol Amending the Marrakesh Agreement Establishing the WTO—Agreement on Fisheries Subsidies to the Legislature for ratification.

This landmark protocol aims to eliminate subsidies that promote harmful fishing practices, particularly those that deplete marine resources and threaten global ocean sustainability.

Specifically, the WTO protocol prohibits states from subsidizing vessels engaged in illegal, unreported, and unregulated (IUU) fishing; fishing of overfished stocks; and unregulated high seas operations.

Following a brief reading and initial deliberation on the floor, the House Plenary mandated its Committees on Commerce, Agriculture and Fisheries, and Judiciary to thoroughly review the agreement and provide recommendations within two weeks.

If ratified, Liberia stands to gain considerably, as the move would reinforce marine sustainability and protect the livelihoods of over 33,000 small-scale fishers.

The ratification will also open access to financial and technical support under the WTO Fisheries Funding Mechanism—a key tool for building local capacity and ensuring long-term benefits for coastal communities.

The review process marks Liberia’s commitment to international sustainability standards and responsible resource management as part of its broader development agenda.