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Shipping Industry Left Adrift As IMO Fails To Agree On Global Carbon Pricing Plan
Photo credit: International Chamber of Shipping
London — Hopes for a breakthrough on a global carbon pricing framework for the shipping industry hit rough seas this week, as the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Extraordinary Session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) wrapped up without an agreement.
The proposed Net-Zero Framework would have been a world first — establishing a global carbon pricing mechanism for any industrial sector, setting a clear course for shipping’s transition to net zero emissions.
But the talks ended in disappointment, said the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), which represents more than 80% of the world’s merchant fleet.
“We are disappointed that member states have not been able to agree a way forward at this meeting,” said Thomas A. Kazakos, ICS Secretary General. “Industry needs clarity to be able to make the investments needed to decarbonize the maritime sector, in line with the goals set out in the IMO GHG strategy.”
Despite the setback, Kazakos reaffirmed ICS’s commitment to working with the IMO, calling it “the best organization to deliver the global regulations needed for a global industry.”
While no consensus emerged this round, industry observers say the conversation is far from over — with global stakeholders still pushing for a unified, predictable approach to reducing shipping’s carbon footprint.
The proposed Net-Zero Framework would have been a world first — establishing a global carbon pricing mechanism for any industrial sector, setting a clear course for shipping’s transition to net zero emissions.
But the talks ended in disappointment, said the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS), which represents more than 80% of the world’s merchant fleet.
“We are disappointed that member states have not been able to agree a way forward at this meeting,” said Thomas A. Kazakos, ICS Secretary General. “Industry needs clarity to be able to make the investments needed to decarbonize the maritime sector, in line with the goals set out in the IMO GHG strategy.”
Despite the setback, Kazakos reaffirmed ICS’s commitment to working with the IMO, calling it “the best organization to deliver the global regulations needed for a global industry.”
While no consensus emerged this round, industry observers say the conversation is far from over — with global stakeholders still pushing for a unified, predictable approach to reducing shipping’s carbon footprint.
Oct 20, 2025
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