IMO vote stalls global shipping decarbonisation plan

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Member States have voted to adjourn a decision on proposed amendments to the MARPOL Convention, delaying progress on the organisation’s net zero framework for shipping.

The framework includes a global fuel standard and an economic measure combining a carbon pricing mechanism with a credit trading scheme aimed at reducing emissions and funding the transition to low- and zero-carbon fuels.

The adjournment effectively postpones any formal decision for at least a year. A total of 57 countries supported the delay, 49 opposed it, and 21 abstained.

Commenting on the outcome, IAPH Managing Director, Patrick Verhoeven, said: “This is a major setback for the maritime industry. Shipping and ports need a global framework that provides them with legal certainty to make the necessary investments in decarbonisation.

“Only IMO can provide such a framework. We don’t know what this adjournment will lead to, but we fear it will simply open the door for more national and regional measures, which will add to an already complex regulatory patchwork resulting in unintended consequences.”

The proposed economic measure seeks to narrow the cost gap between conventional fuels and emerging low-carbon alternatives, while also funding R&D and essential port infrastructure —particularly in developing countries.

Verhoeven concluded: “The adjournment of the IMO Net Zero Framework now spells uncertainty about the incentives that are needed for the uptake of new low and zero carbon fuels.

“We continue to support a global economic measure as it will also provide vital funding for infrastructure investments in ports of developing countries, in order for them not to be left behind in the energy transition.”

Recently, the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO) urged International Maritime Organization (IMO) member states to formally adopt the Net-Zero Framework ahead of the MEPC meeting held on 14 October in London.