The United States has warned countries to reject a United Nations deal aimed at reducing marine fuel emissions, threatening tariffs, visa restrictions, and port levies if they support the measure, according to US and European officials. The move comes as the Trump administration seeks to increase US influence in global shipping, wielding tariffs to secure more favorable terms in international trade.
Earlier this year, countries at the UN’s International Maritime Organization (IMO) reached a draft agreement to impose fees on ships breaching global carbon emissions standards. However, Washington withdrew from the talks in April and, by August, vowed retaliation against countries supporting the proposed “net-zero framework.” US officials argue the measures would unfairly burden the shipping industry and have limited impact on emissions reduction.
In recent days, the US State Department has privately warned IMO member countries against adopting the framework, according to sources who requested anonymity due to the matter’s sensitivity. A State Department spokesperson confirmed the US is preparing remedies, including tariffs and port levies, should the deal move forward in the IMO’s upcoming October session.
The Dutch government reported receiving a direct warning from US officials of possible tariffs or other actions if the Netherlands backs the deal, though it remains unclear which other countries have been similarly approached. The IMO, which regulates international shipping, said the October session would be the appropriate forum for member states to address any concerns. The draft deal, thus far, has divided members, and its passage remains uncertain.
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