The 2025 Annual Progress Report on Green Shipping Corridors reveals significant global momentum toward zero-emission shipping. With 25 new corridors launched this year bringing the worldwide total to 84t he movement is expanding in both scale and geography. This progress comes at a crucial time, as uncertainty around the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) delayed Net-Zero Framework poses challenges but also opens opportunities for national-level leadership.
Major Developing Economies Step Into Zero-Emission Shipping
This year’s report highlights substantial progress from emerging economies, including China, India, and Brazil. These nations, along with Chile, Ghana, and Kenya, have launched new green corridor initiatives, reflecting a growing recognition of the economic potential linked to zero-emission marine fuels, bunkering hubs, and supporting infrastructure.
Experts note that participation from these countries is vital for rapid global scaling. According to Jesse Fahnestock, Director of Decarbonisation at the Global Maritime Forum, these initiatives are not merely environmental commitments they are strategic economic investments. Early adopters stand to gain competitive advantages in trade, technology, and clean-energy industries, positioning themselves as leaders in the transition to sustainable maritime transport.
Progress Meets Barriers: The ‘Feasibility Wall’ and Regulatory Uncertainty
Although four green corridors have progressed to the “realisation stage”where vessels, fuel plants, and infrastructure begin construction many others remain stuck at the feasibility stage. The primary challenge is the cost gap between today’s conventional fuels and future zero-emission alternatives.
This barrier is reinforced by the IMO’s decision to delay adopting its landmark Net-Zero Framework, which was initially expected to strengthen global incentives for low-carbon shipping. The delay risks triggering a “wait and see” approach among industry stakeholders.
However, the report urges governments and companies to use this 12-month window to accelerate progress rather than pause. It calls for leveraging national programs such as the EU’s Global Gateway, H2Global, and Australia’s Hydrogen Headstart. These initiatives can unlock financial support, help shape future IMO policy, and position first movers to benefit from early incentives when global regulations are implemented.
Despite regulatory delays, the rise of 25 new green shipping corridors in 2025 demonstrates strong global commitment to decarbonising the maritime sector. With major developing economies entering the race and several corridors moving into realisation, the sector stands at a pivotal crossroads. The report makes one message clear: the next year should be a period of action, not hesitation. Countries and companies that move now will shape future IMO frameworks, secure early economic advantages, and accelerate the world’s progress toward zero-emission shipping.
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Source: GLOBAL MARITIME FORUM
