IMO MEMBER COUNTRIES SET TO VOTE ON NET-ZERO FRAMEWORK
On 14 October, member countries to the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) will gather in London to formally adopt its Net-Zero Framework, a landmark regulatory proposal designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from global shipping. The framework, provisionally agreed in April, aims to establish a clear pathway for the maritime sector to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Its adoption would represent a major milestone in international efforts to decarbonise shipping. The upcoming vote follows extensive consultations among member states, industry representatives, and environmental organisations, signalling broad recognition of the need for coordinated international action.
Ahead of next week’s MEPC meeting, CLECAT urges IMO Member States to formally adopt the Net-Zero Framework. CLECAT stresses that an IMO-led framework is vital to prevent carbon leakage in maritime transport. Inconsistent regional regulations could encourage carriers to redirect ships to areas with less stringent environmental rules. Fragmentation would not only weaken decarbonisation efforts but also create unfair competitive conditions, particularly for European operators.
We argue that a unified global agreement is essential to maintain European competitiveness while preserving the stability of global supply chains. As the IMO prepares for its decision, CLECAT calls on member states to support a balanced framework that advances environmental goals without compromising the operational needs of the maritime and logistics industries.