World Trade Organization (WTO) member nations are continuing to work toward agreement on two central topics that shape global trade policy: the scale of benefits for the agricultural sector and the approach to fisheries subsidies. Reports from TASS summarize remarks linked to Maxim Reshetnikov, who serves as the head of the Russian Federation’s Ministry of Economic Development. These comments reflect ongoing debates among WTO members about how benefits should be allocated and who should bear the costs tied to sustainable fisheries, with a focus on ensuring developing countries receive fair access to the gains from trade while maintaining environmental protections. [Citation: TASS]
According to Reshetnikov, reaching consensus on the first issue—reducing or distributing agricultural benefits—has proven extremely challenging. Yet, he indicated there has been slight progress, particularly on the second issue relating to fisheries subsidies. The minister stated that the most significant obstacle lay in the volume of benefits that developing countries are seeking to secure, highlighting the delicate balance between open markets and the need to preserve the capacity of less affluent members to participate meaningfully in global trade. [Citation: TASS]
Reshetnikov stressed that both topics remain on the negotiation table and will continue to be central to dialogue over the next two years. This timeline aligns with broader expectations that WTO talks will extend beyond a short-term horizon as members seek concrete steps that improve market access while preventing distortions in competition. The discussions are framed by a shared interest in stability, predictability, and sustainable development, all crucial for countries at different stages of economic development. [Citation: TASS]
In a related development, Russia announced its accession to a WTO agreement focused on facilitating investment for development. The accord has now drawn support from a substantial number of member states, signaling a momentum that could influence investment flows, technology transfer, and the ease of doing business across participating economies. The expansion of such commitments is often viewed as a signal of increased openness and a willingness to align with international rules that promote growth while safeguarding market integrity. [Citation: TASS]
The head of Russia’s Ministry of Economic Development also asserted that Moscow will not permit opponents of the WTO to use trade barriers as a tool to advance political or economic aims. This stance underscores a broader commitment to upholding the rules-based trading system and resisting measures that could undermine the predictability essential to long-term international commerce. The position is consistent with Russia’s stated aim of deeper integration into the global economy, provided that market access is reciprocal and transparent. [Citation: TASS]
Observers note that Russia has repeatedly emphasized readiness to participate more fully in global economic governance, while also reminding partners that the country seeks balanced benefits from any multilateral framework. The evolving dialogue around agricultural subsidies and fisheries measures thus reflects a wider debate about how to reconcile national interests with collective goals for sustainable development, food security, and economic resilience in a rapidly changing world. [Citation: TASS]