IMO Net-Zero Framework Compliance Rules for Ships from 2028

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  • IMO NZF to Apply to Ships 5,000 GT and Above from January 2028.
  • Exclusions Clarified for Flag-State Vessels and Offshore Platforms.
  • Understanding IMO Net-Zero Compliance Key to Reducing Emissions Costs.

The Mærsk Mc-Kinney Møller Centre for Zero Carbon Shipping (MMMCZCS) has been diving into what compliance with the IMO Net-Zero Framework (IMO NZF) will entail once it becomes mandatory starting January 2028, reports Safety4Sea.

Adoption Timeline and Importance

The NZF received the green light from IMO Member States in April 2025 and is set to be officially reviewed for adoption at MEPC/ES.2 from October 14 to 17, 2025. It’s essential for companies to grasp the compliance process so they can effectively gather data, delegate responsibilities, and craft strategies that not only cut emissions but also keep compliance costs in check.

This regulation targets ships weighing 5,000 gross tonnage or more. However, there are some exceptions: vessels that operate solely within their flag State waters, non-mechanically propelled ships, and platforms like FPSOs, FSUs, drilling rigs, and semi-submersibles are not included.

Pre-Reporting Period (2027)

To gear up for reporting, companies need to tackle some administrative tasks:

  1. GFI Registry Account Setup: Every ship must have an account in the IMO GFI Registry by October 1, 2027. Any new ships that come into service after this date will also need to set up accounts.
  2. SEEMP Update and Verification: Ships are required to refresh their Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan (SEEMP) with: A methodology for gathering GFI data, Processes for reporting to the Flag State. The updated SEEMP must be verified by the flag State, which will issue a Confirmation of Compliance by December 31, 2027.
  3. Compliance Preparation: Companies looking to use low-emission fuels, zero- and near-zero GHG fuels (ZNZs), or Surplus Units (SUs) should start preparing by evaluating fuel availability and options for purchasing SUs.

Reporting Period (2028)

Starting in January 2028, ships will need to:

  1. Gather GFI-related data following the SEEMP methodology.
  2. Pay an annual administration fee to the IMO GFI Registry by June 30.

Verification Period (2029)

During this time, companies are required to submit and verify their data:

  1. Calculate the annual GFI achieved for the previous year using the IMO LCA Guidelines.
  2. Certify sustainability aspects through the Sustainable Fuels Certification Scheme/Standard (SFCS).
  3. Submit GFI data to the flag State by March 31.
  4. The flag State will report the verified data to the IMO GFI Registry by June 30.
  5. Ships must record their chosen GFI compliance approach(es) in the Registry by July 31.
  6. The Registry will issue a ship account statement by August 31.
  7. The flag State will provide a Statement of Compliance – Annual GHG Fuel Intensity by September 30.
  8. This Statement of Compliance must be recorded in the Registry by October 31 and kept on board for a minimum of five years.

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Source: Safety4Sea