IMO Postpones Adoption Of Global Net-Zero Shipping Framework

4th November 2025

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has postponed the adoption of its landmark Net-Zero Framework (NZF) for global shipping by one year, following a contentious vote at the Marine Environment Protection Committee’s (MEPC) extraordinary session in London.

The NZF was intended to establish a global fuel standard, a greenhouse-gas pricing system, and an IMO-managed Net-Zero Fund to finance decarbonisation and support developing countries. The framework was expected to be adopted in 2025 and take effect in 2027, but the vote has been deferred until October 2026.

The motion to delay, introduced by Singapore and formally submitted by Saudi Arabia, passed with 57 votes in favour, 49 against, and 21 abstentions. Supporters cited the need for more time to refine technical details and build consensus among developing states. Opponents warned the delay weakens global climate momentum and creates uncertainty for shipowners planning green investments.

Diplomatic tensions ran high during the meeting. Reports indicated that the United States and other major economies lobbied against the NZF’s emissions-pricing component, prompting accusations of “undiplomatic pressure” on smaller nations. IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Domínguez called the session “unusual” and urged delegates to return to constructive dialogue.

The postponement means regional climate rules such as the EU Emissions Trading System (EU-ETS) and FuelEU Maritime, will continue to shape decarbonisation efforts in the interim. Industry and environmental groups have expressed concern that fragmented regulations could complicate compliance and delay investment in zero-emission technologies.

Technical work on the NZF will continue through 2026, with member states expected to resume negotiations next October. The delay marks a setback for global shipping’s net-zero ambitions, but IMO officials insist the framework remains “on course, though with a longer horizon.” Find out more about the activities of Marine Emissions monitoring systems from Protea and the need to demonstrate environmental responsibility which is key for today’s marine and offshore industries at https://www.protea.ltd.uk/marine.

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