October 21, 2025 (LONDON) – The world’s first carbon levy mechanism to curb greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from international shipping has failed to clear its final hurdle. What was meant to mark a historic step toward a global agreement on pricing carbon in the shipping sector—and aiming to steer toward zero-emission fuels—has been postponed for yet another year. 

Shipping carries nearly 90% of global trade but is responsible for 3% of GHG emissions. Despite this, international shipping emissions remain outside the scope of most Nationally Determined Contributions (NDCs), representing a persistent blind spot in global climate policy. In April this year, the International Maritime Organization (IMO) made a long-awaited breakthrough, approving a draft mid-term measure as part of its roadmap to reach net zero by 2050. 

However, as negotiations progressed in their next official adoption stage, delegates voted to defer adoption until next year. Throughout the negotiation week, the adoption process faced continuous blocking and opposition. Consequently, Saudi Arabia proposed adjourning the negotiations for one year, a motion that received support from over half of the participating countries, including the United States and other OPEC members. As a result, the adoption of the matter was deferred until next year. 

This is not a mere procedural delay—it is a significant setback to the IMO’s institutional momentum toward achieving its 2050 net zero target and ensuring the deployment of 10% of Zero and Near Zero (ZNZ) marine fuels by 2030. The foundation built to deliver these goals has now been weakened. 

The repercussions are serious. With every year lost, the sector’s transition window narrows. When finally adopted, the measure will demand even sharper emission cuts—potentially 20–30% within just two years (2028–2030)—placing immense pressure on shipping companies and undermining investor confidence in the sector’s green transition. 

For South Korea, one of the world’s top two shipbuilding nations and top seven in global shipping, this delay is particularly disappointing. Decarbonizing maritime transport is no longer a policy option—it is an economic and existential imperative. Leading Korean carriers such as HMM, Hyundai Glovis, and Pan Ocean have already committed to carbon-neutral roadmaps and their commitment in support of global shipping’s 2050 Net Zero target. What these companies need is not hesitation, but regulatory clarity and policy certainty—signals that enable decisive investment in green ships and zero-emission fuels. Instead, the postponement deepens uncertainty and erodes momentum. 

This moment must not become an excuse for inaction. It must become a call to greater responsibility. The international community must urgently reconvene and finalize the IMO’s mid-term measures to ensure progress toward net zero by 2050. The Korean government, which remained largely silent during this special session, must demonstrate stronger leadership and rally support in the next meeting. 

The year 2030 marks a critical inflection point in the global climate race. A one-year delay is not trivial—it slows the world’s climate clock and risks irreversible loss. While this postponement represents a setback for the IMO, it need not define the outcome. 

South Korea and other Asian shipping countries must partner to lead the charge for Net Zero Framework adoption in the next negotiation, reaffirming their shared goal to drive the next maritime sector’s clean transformation. This moment demands more than reflection—it calls for action. Governments must turn delay into determination, charting a clear course toward a decarbonized and climate-resilient shipping future by 2050.  

ENDS.

Solutions for Our Climate (SFOC) is an independent nonprofit organization that works to accelerate global greenhouse gas emissions reduction and energy transition. SFOC leverages research, litigation, community organizing, and strategic communications to deliver practical climate solutions and build movements for change.       

For media inquiries, please reach out to Antonette Tagnipez, Communications Officer, at antonette.tagnipez@forourclimate.org.