The International Maritime Organization (IMO) Assembly, a UN agency, has elected ten states to its Council, focusing on international shipping interests. Notably, China, Greece, and the United States are among those in category (a) for international shipping services. Category (b), representing countries with substantial seaborne trade interests, includes Australia and India. A third category features 20 nations with special maritime interests, aiming for global geographic inclusion.
However, concerns are mounting as EmissionLink’s Managing Director warns that the IMO’s postponement of the Net Zero Framework could lead to a fragmented regulatory environment. He believes this delay allows individual countries to implement their carbon pricing systems, creating a patchwork of uneven regulations. For example, the UK plans to introduce its Emissions Trading Scheme by June 2026, with other countries likely to follow suit.
This lack of a cohesive framework may complicate compliance for shipowners, who could face operational risks and increased administrative burdens. The ongoing development of national carbon schemes could detract from their intended environmental impact, further complicating global compliance efforts as governments navigate fiscal pressures.
