The maritime industry stands at a crossroads. The imperative to decarbonise has never been clearer yet recent deliberations at the International Maritime Organization’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) have underscored the urgency of aligning ambition with pragmatism. BIMCO fully endorses the IMO’s greenhouse gas (GHG) strategy and the target of achieving net zero emissions by or around 2050. However, guided by our motto as the practical voice of shipping, we recognise that ambition must be accompanied by realism and should not outpace feasibility.
Our position is unwavering: the solution must be globally enforceable, operationally viable and economically fair. Fragmentation, whether through regional initiatives or inconsistent enforcement, threatens to undermine the progress we collectively strive for.
While recent delays to the Net Zero Framework timeline may frustrate some, they do not signal a pause in progress. On the contrary, this is an opportunity to refocus our collective efforts on measures that reduce emissions today – measures that also make strong business sense. Speed optimisation, data harmonisation and voyage efficiency are proven strategies that deliver both environmental and commercial value. These are not stopgaps; they are smart steps forward.
Representing two-thirds of the world’s tonnage by deadweight and with a membership which spans all corners of the globe and every segment of shipping, BIMCO is uniquely placed to advise policymakers on the likely impact of regulations. We will continue to offer valuable technical and operational insight, regardless of the direction Member States choose in the near term. Additionally, we remain committed to supporting our members – whether by assisting with the commercial implementation of policy decisions or by helping them understand their regulatory obligations.
Turning complexity into clarity is exactly what it means to be the practical voice of shipping. In response to the US Trade Representative’s fees on Chinese-built ships, we developed a dedicated USTR clause to help the industry manage the commercial consequences. This clause provides a clear mechanism for allocating risk and responsibility in charter parties, allowing business to proceed with clarity and confidence. Furthermore, just last week, we announced our intention to draft a comparable clause to address the newly introduced Chinese port fees affecting US vessels. This swift action reflects our commitment to equipping the industry with timely, effective solutions to geopolitical disruptions.
As trade tensions and regulatory landscapes continue to shift, our focus remains firmly on supporting our members, the wider industry, regulators and Member States with practical tools and well-informed guidance. The journey to net zero will be long and demanding, but taking action now will help ease the process. Through unity, discipline, and pragmatic thinking, we can keep shipping strong, competitive, and sustainable.
This newsletter was originally sent to CEOs of BIMCO members during the week of 27 October 2025
