Global Shipping Emissions Deal Survives US-Led Opposition, Adoption Delayed to 2026

In a dramatic turn at the International Maritime Organization (IMO) meeting in London last week, nations have salvaged the proposed 'net-zero framework' for global shipping emissions, pushing its adoption to December 2026 after intense negotiations. The framework, which aims to cut emissions from international shipping—responsible for over 2% of global greenhouse gases—had been derailed in 2025 by US-led opposition labeled as 'bully-boy tactics.'

'We are back on track, but it was a knife-edge,' said a senior IMO delegate who spoke on condition of anonymity. 'The framework survived because supporters like the EU and Pacific islands refused to let the fossil-fuel lobby dismantle it.'

Background

The IMO's net-zero framework was first agreed in principle in April 2025 at MEPC83, despite the US withdrawing mid-meeting. However, an extraordinary session in October 2025 saw US negotiators accused of 'bully-boy tactics' after they led a push to reject the framework, delaying its formal adoption. Since then, the US, some fossil-fuel producers, and industry groups have demanded the removal of a carbon-pricing mechanism—or outright abandonment.

At last week's MEPC84 meeting, opponents—including Liberia, Panama, and Argentina—proposed an alternative that stripped carbon pricing from the framework. Supporters, citing the framework as a 'careful balance,' held firm. Ultimately, the meeting ended with a reconfirmation of commitment to rebuild consensus, targeting December 2026 for adoption.

For more on the original controversy, see Background and What This Means.