Shipping industry calls for a global framework to decarbonise shipping before IMO-MEPC meeting in London

"Shipping is a global industry by its very nature, and it can only be decarbonised effectively through global regulations agreed at the IMO", declares Joe Kramek, CEO of the World Shipping Council (WSC) on 21/04/2026. "The maritime sector and fuel producers urgently need clarity and regulatory certainty to move from pilots to scale — to invest, to innovate and to deliver emissions reductions at the pace required. A clear, globally aligned framework from the IMO is essential to unlock that next phase of the transition."

His call comes with a statement from the shipping industry calling on the International Maritime Organisation to move forward with a global framework to decarbonise shipping at its next meeting (MEPC 84), taking place from 27/04 to 01/05/2026 in London.

It was signed by WSC, BIMCO (the Baltic and International Maritime Council), INTERCARGO, Interferry, INTERTANKO, CLIA (CRUISE LINES INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION) and ICS (the International Chamber of Shipping).

"Following the postponement, in October 2025, of the adoption of new IMO greenhouse gas (GHG) regulations, the…