Key Points
Abu Dhabi: As talks at the 13th Ministerial Conference of the World Trade Organization (WTO) entered the final day, no consensus appeared to emerge on fisheries subsidies as the developed countries refused to give unconditional exemptions to poorer nations for the subsidies they give to their fish folk...
India has been seeking appropriate and effective special and differential treatment (S&DT) for its small scale fishermen and to keep the policy space for development of its fisheries sector...
First, is a transition period which can be in the range of 7-25 years, that will give India enough time to develop its fisheries by giving support to the fisheries sector through vessels purchase or modernization, fuel taxes rebate, development of fisheries infrastructure, subsidies for fishing gear, nets, insulation, freezing facilities, and insurance...
The second S&DT element of interest to India is complete exemption for small scale and artisanal fishing of low income, resource poor or livelihood nature when conducted in either 12 or 200 nautical miles from the baseline or shore..
India and developing countries, having predominantly small scale fisheries, will benefit from a complete exemption from prohibition if this geographic area up to 200 nautical miles (EEZ) could be agreed in the final outcome...
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