The postponement of the IMO’s vote on its Net-Zero Framework until 2026 does not affect the applicability of binding carbon-related obligations already in force under EU law. Shipping companies trading with EU ports remain subject to the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS), and the FuelEU Maritime Regulation. The international delay does not translate into a compliance pause in Europe.
IMO Net-Zero Framework – Still on the Horizon
The IMO Net-Zero Framework aims to establish a global standard for reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from shipping. It combines two main components:
- A global fuel standard to gradually reduce the lifecycle GHG intensity of marine fuels
- A pricing mechanism to encourage compliance through economic incentives
These measures were intended to be adopted as legally binding amendments to the International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships (MARPOL) Annex VI in October 2025, but the vote has now been postponed until 2026.
