Note: Single-source report; awaiting corroboration.
The OECD reports that from 2020 to 2022, nearly two-thirds (65%) of government financial support to fisheries may have promoted unsustainable practices unless paired with effective fisheries management. This highlights the need for governments to reassess policies influencing fishing costs and incentives, and to consider whether they contribute to overcapacity, overfishing, or illegal activities.
The OECD Review of Fisheries 2025 covers policies affecting 79% of global fish production and emphasizes that fisheries and aquaculture are vital for feeding billions and providing employment to millions. However, illegal fishing, overfishing, pollution, and climate change threaten fish stocks and ecosystems, risking food security and coastal economies.
Climate change remains a significant concern, with ocean warming, current shifts, acidification, and extreme weather impacting fish stocks and the industry both short and long term. The fisheries sector’s greenhouse gas emissions are estimated at around 0.5% of global totals, with 60% to 90% of these emissions generated by fuel consumption during fishing.
The OECD recommends investments in assessing and maintaining healthy fish stocks to benefit both ocean sustainability and fishers’ livelihoods. Legal frameworks to combat illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing are also cited as critical measures.
According to the OECD, the economic, social, and environmental performance of fisheries depends on sustainable management, smarter government spending, and proactive public policies.