In a major show of unity, Danish Shipping and six leading international shipping associations have jointly called for the adoption of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework, urging governments to support a single global pathway to decarbonising the maritime sector.
The joint statement was endorsed by the Japanese Shipowners’ Association, Royal Belgian Shipowners’ Association, Royal Association of Netherlands Shipowners, Singapore Shipping Association, UK Chamber of Shipping, Norwegian Shipowners’ Association, and Danish Shipping. The initiative has also received formal backing from two of the sector’s most influential bodies—the International Chamber of Shipping (ICS) and the European Community Shipowners’ Associations (ECSA).
Call for EU Alignment to Prevent Regulatory Burden
The signatories specifically urged the European Union to clearly align its climate regulations with the forthcoming IMO Net-Zero Framework. They warned that without alignment, shipping companies operating in Europe may face the risk of double payment for emissions and an increased regulatory burden.
“We need global regulation and a level playing field,” said Anne H. Steffensen, CEO, Danish Shipping. “The alternative to the Net-Zero Framework is not zero regulation, but a complicated patchwork of regional and national rules—entirely the wrong answer for a global industry.”
ICS: Only Global Rules Can Deliver Decarbonisation
In its supporting statement, ICS reaffirmed the sector’s commitment to working with IMO Member States to implement a “carefully balanced regulatory package” that will deliver net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by or around 2050. ICS also called for incentives to de-risk investment in green marine fuels and ensure a just transition for the workforce.
“Only global rules will decarbonise a global industry,” ICS stated, warning that without the Framework, the sector faces an expanding patchwork of unilateral regulations that increase costs without driving meaningful emissions reductions.
Historic Opportunity for Governments
ICS emphasised that widespread industry support presents a “unique and historic opportunity” for governments to implement a comprehensive global framework that will be strictly enforced worldwide. Such a framework would accelerate investment in clean technologies while safeguarding competitiveness through global uniformity.
Maritime Sector Ready to Deliver
With 90% of the world’s trade transported by sea, global shipping leaders stressed that the sector is ready to play a decisive role in the transition to a sustainable future.
“The maritime transport sector is prepared to do its part,” ICS highlighted. “What it needs now is a clear, consistent, and globally aligned regulatory path.”
Outlook:
All eyes now turn to the upcoming IMO negotiations, where the Net-Zero Framework could become the cornerstone of global maritime climate action. A unified regulatory approach—backed by major industry players—could accelerate decarbonisation while protecting global trade from fragmented regional policies.