- Global Regulator Plays Key Role in Shipping’s Future.
- April Agreement Advances Zero-Emission Transition.
- Industry Momentum Builds on Alternative Fuels.
In October, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is set to make a crucial decision regarding the adoption of the Net-Zero Framework. The Getting to Zero Coalition, which unites over 180 companies in the global shipping sector, has called on Member States to endorse this framework, cautioning that failing to do so could lead to serious repercussions for the industry, reports Global Maritime Forum.
IMO’s Role as a Global Regulator
As the global authority overseeing shipping, the IMO has the power and responsibility to influence the industry’s decisions through binding regulations that apply uniformly across all nations. Its role in ensuring a fair competitive landscape is deemed essential for tackling worldwide issues like greenhouse gas emissions.
Progress on Shipping’s Transition
In April 2025, the IMO reached an agreement on regulations aimed at facilitating the shift to zero emissions, building on the Revised Greenhouse Gas Strategy that was adopted in 2023. While this transformation poses challenges, regulation through the IMO is viewed as the most equitable and effective means to drive global advancements. The Getting to Zero Coalition welcomed the April agreement and emphasised the need for productive discussions leading up to October to establish clear guidelines for implementation.
Momentum Within the Industry
The shipping sector has already started its transition. New ships designed to run on alternative fuels are being ordered, and fuel suppliers are beginning to see shipping as a significant future market. However, uncertainty surrounding the Net-Zero Framework could jeopardise this progress and put vital investments at risk, potentially disrupting global trade.
Economic Opportunities at Stake
Investments in clean technologies and infrastructure could generate millions of jobs and bolster the economies of member countries. However, delays in adopting the framework could jeopardise ongoing projects and reset planning timelines, ultimately raising the overall costs of decarbonization for nations, industries, and consumers.
Reinforcing Multilateralism and Hope
The adoption of the Net-Zero Framework is not only about reducing emissions but also about reinforcing the IMO’s role as a credible global regulator. For shipping, multilateralism underpins fair and effective regulation across the sector. Despite challenges, the IMO’s progress on decarbonisation has shown that collective action is possible. Member States now face a critical choice in October, one that will either strengthen industry confidence or undermine it.
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Source: Global Maritime Forum
