IMO MEPC Delays: Uncertainty Looms Over NZF GHG Emissions Vote
Multiple delays during Thursday’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) have clouded Friday’s planned vote on the Net Zero Framework (NZF) for pricing global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from marine fuels.
The IMO pricing mechanism drafting group released the final text by midday Thursday, but the vote was deferred to Friday amid repeated breaks for “consultations” among member states. A delegate told Argus that discussions had escalated to a “high level” with uncertain outcomes.
Source: imo.org
The emissions pricing tool has met strong US opposition this year, reversing prior support under President Donald Trump. On Thursday afternoon, Trump blasted the proposal on social media, labeling it a “Global Green New Scam Tax on Shipping” and vowing the US would not comply “in any way, shape, or form.” He urged other nations to vote against it on Friday.
Member states must also vote on amendments, including a US-submitted one proposing an “explicit acceptance” or “opt-in” process for the NZF. Under this, the regulation would activate only after two-thirds of parties—or those representing at least 50 % of global merchant fleet tonnage—voluntarily notify IMO of acceptance. Delegates told Argus this could delay maritime sector adoption by years, even if approved. The US delegation countered that it would still take effect by the target date if the threshold is met by September 1, 2026.
This opt-in precedent was used for MARPOL Annex VI, approved in 1997 but entering force in 2005 after two-thirds voluntary opt-ins.
The UAE submitted a proposal, debated in plenary, addressing fears of overlapping regional systems like the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) atop the IMO NZF, leading to a “dual regulatory system” with uncertainty and duplication. The EU noted review clauses in existing rules allow alignment with IMO ambitions.
The UAE proposal gained broad support before the session paused for breaks due to disagreements on discussion sequencing.
The adoption vote is now set for Friday, requiring a two-thirds majority from MARPOL Annex VI signatories. Of 108 signatories, 95 are present.
