IMO approves net-zero regulations for global shipping

Draft regulations will set mandatory marine fuel standard and GHG emissions pricing for shipping to address climate change.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has achieved another important step towards establishing a legally binding framework to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships globally, aiming for net-zero emissions by or around, i.e close to 2050.  

The IMO Net-zero Framework is the first in the world to combine mandatory emissions limits and GHG pricing across an entire industry sector.   

Approved by the Marine Environment Protection Committee during its 83rd session (MEPC 83) from 7–11 April 2025, the measures include a new fuel standard for ships and a global pricing mechanism for emissions.  

These measures, set to be formally adopted in October 2025 before entry into force in 2027, will become mandatory for large ocean-going ships over 5,000 gross tonnage, which emit 85% of the total CO₂ emissions from international shipping.  

Closing the meeting, IMO Secretary-General Mr. Arsenio Dominguez commended the spirit of cooperation and commitment demonstrated by Member States this week. He stated: 

“The approval of draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI