Maritime industry organizations, representing flag registries, classification societies, shipowner associations, and shipping companies, have urged IMO Member States to explore alternative proposals to the current Net-Zero Framework (NZF) during the upcoming MEPC 84 session. This coalition, which includes major registries like Liberia, Panama, and the Marshall Islands, along with leading classification societies and shipping companies, emphasizes the need for a unified approach to decarbonization. Shipping accounts for about 80% of global trade and approximately 3% of greenhouse gas emissions, making a coordinated regulatory response essential for achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
The coalition highlights that the recent MEPC ES.2 session in October 2025 failed to adopt the NZF, revealing significant divisions among IMO Member States. Concerns regarding the NZF’s implementation have grown, leading to diminishing support for the framework in its current state. The signatories reaffirm their belief that the IMO must remain the primary global regulator for international shipping, as it is uniquely positioned to create a level playing field necessary for the substantial investments needed for decarbonization.
Ahead of MEPC 84, scheduled for April 27 – May 1, 2026, in London, the coalition expresses a constructive resolve, emphasizing the industry’s readiness to invest in new vessels and alternative fuels. However, they stress the importance of having a globally agreed framework to provide the clarity and certainty needed for these long-term investments. Regulatory uncertainty can hinder progress and inflate costs, ultimately slowing the necessary transition towards sustainability. The coalition stands prepared to assist Member States in finding a viable path forward.
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