Member States of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have voted to defer a decision on proposed amendments to the MARPOL Convention, effectively pausing progress on the body’s long-awaited net-zero emissions framework for international shipping.
The proposal includes the introduction of a global fuel standard alongside an economic mechanism that would merge a carbon pricing system with credit trading, aiming to curb greenhouse gas emissions and support the transition toward sustainable marine fuels.
The outcome means no binding decision will be made for at least another year. During the session, 57 countries voted in favour of the delay, 49 opposed, and 21 abstained.
Reacting to the result, Patrick Verhoeven, Managing Director of the International Association of Ports and Harbors (IAPH), described the development as a “serious setback” for the sector.
“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,” Verhoeven said.
“Only the IMO can deliver such global consistency. The danger now is that more national or regional regulations will emerge, further complicating an already fragmented regulatory landscape and producing unintended effects.”
READ: US firmly rejects IMO net-zero plan, warns of retaliation
The proposed economic measure had been designed to bridge the price gap between conventional fossil fuels and newer low-carbon alternatives. It would also generate funding for research, innovation, and port infrastructure, particularly in developing nations seeking to participate in the energy transition.
Verhoeven added that the decision creates renewed uncertainty for stakeholders planning investments in cleaner fuels.
“Without clear incentives from the IMO’s Net Zero Framework, it becomes harder to accelerate the shift toward alternative energy sources,” he noted.
“A unified global mechanism remains essential, not only to reduce emissions but also to ensure developing ports receive the investment they need to keep pace with the transition.”
The adjournment follows repeated appeals from industry groups, including the European Sea Ports Organisation (ESPO), which had urged IMO member states to formally endorse the Net Zero Framework ahead of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting held on 14 October in London.
