The International Maritime Organization (IMO) has postponed adoption of its landmark Net-Zero Framework until 2026, delaying key climate measures for global shipping after a narrowly passed motion led by Singapore and backed by Saudi Arabia.
The framework was set to introduce the first legally binding global carbon pricing system for any sector, alongside a fuel standard accounting for full lifecycle emissions—from production to combustion. It also included efficiency rules for ship operations and a revenue distribution fund to support climate equity.
The postponement stalls progress on maritime decarbonization, delaying implementation originally planned for 2028 and slowing negotiations that were expected to begin immediately.
Reactions were mixed. Environmental groups criticized the setback, while some developing nations welcomed more time to prepare for compliance.
IMO net-zero shipping talks to resume in 2026
The IMO said in a statement that it has agreed to adjourn the extraordinary session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC), which was convened this week (October 14 to 17 2025) to consider the adoption of draft amendments to MARPOL Annex VI, including the IMO Net-Zero Framework.
The extraordinary session will be reconvened in 12 months' time.
In the interim, member states will continue to work towards consensus on the IMO Net Zero Framework.
The Intersessional Working Group on the Reduction on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Ships, scheduled to meet October 20 to 24 2025, will go ahead to continue work on the guidelines for implementing the Net Zero Framework.
The IMO Net-Zero Framework was approved at the MEPC 83 session in April 2025, as a new Chapter 5 of the Draft Revised Annex VI of the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL).
It comprises a set of international regulations aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, in line with IMO's 2023 Strategy for Reduction of GHG Emissions from Ships. It includes two key elements: a global fuel standard and global GHG emissions pricing mechanism.
World Shipping Council reacts
The World Shipping Council (WSC) said IMO should use additional year to close remaining gaps and ensure an effective global agreement.
"Recognising the challenging and complex negotiations at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) this week, the World Shipping Council (WSC) has underlined the importance of using the year ahead to clarify and develop the IMO Net-Zero Framework," it said.
WSC noted that it acknowledges the significant efforts of IMO member states this week, and over many years, to work toward a necessary global agreement.
"The 2023 IMO GHG Strategy and industry's investment trajectory remain aligned toward net-zero by 2050," WSC said, adding that a globally agreed framework is needed to provide a level playing field to get there.
The liner industry is committed to the goal of net-zero by 2050 and has invested US$150 billion in ships designed to run on green fuels.
"The IMO remains the right place to deliver a global solution," WSC said. "We are committed to continuing work with governments to deliver the necessary regulatory consistency, support renewable fuel production and infrastructure, and keep shipping’s energy transition on track."
