EU ETS MARITIME COST EXPOSURE INCREASES AS OF 1 JANUARY 2026
On 1 January 2026, the EU Emissions Trading System (EU ETS) for maritime transport entered a new phase, further increasing cost exposure for shipping companies and, indirectly, for freight forwarders and shippers. While maritime transport has been formally included in the EU ETS since 2024, the system was designed with a gradual phase-in.
For maritime transport, the ETS applies to 100% of emissions from voyages between EU ports and emissions at berth in EU ports, and to 50% of emissions from voyages between the EU and third countries. While shipping companies were required to surrender allowances covering 40% of their verified emissions in 2025, this share increases to 70% from 1 January 2026, with full surrendering (100%) applying from 2027 onwards. In addition, from the same date, the scope of the system expands beyond carbon dioxide to also include methane (CH₄) and nitrous oxide (N₂O), further increasing the amount of emissions subject to the ETS for certain vessel types and fuels.
These regulatory developments are already being reflected in the market through the introduction and adjustment of ETS-related surcharges by ocean carriers. As the surrendering obligation increases and additional greenhouse gases are brought into scope, further upward pressure on costs can be expected.
CLECAT continues to stress the importance of preventing carbon leakage and evasion risks, and of ensuring coherence between EU measures and ongoing discussions at IMO level on the development of effective global decarbonisation instruments.