BIMCO has expressed skepticism regarding the possibility of an agreement on the International Maritime Organization's (IMO) Net Zero Framework (NZF) by the upcoming MEPC 85 meeting in December. Despite some willingness to compromise observed during the recent ISWG-GHG 22 session, substantial disagreements on various aspects of the framework continue to hinder convergence.
The ISWG-GHG 22 meeting, held from September 1-4, 2026, involved approximately 1,200 delegates who convened virtually and in person to review proposals related to the NZF. These proposals had been submitted during previous MEPC meetings, aiming to establish a comprehensive strategy for decarbonizing the shipping industry.
For freight forwarders and logistics professionals, this uncertainty surrounding the IMO's NZF means a lack of clear regulatory direction for future shipping operations. Delays in establishing a definitive framework could prolong the ambiguity regarding carbon pricing, fuel standards, and operational requirements, making long-term strategic planning for vessel deployment and supply chain costs more difficult. Forwarders may face continued volatility in bunker prices and potential surcharges as carriers navigate an evolving regulatory landscape without a clear roadmap. This situation also impacts investment decisions in alternative fuels and green technologies, as the specific compliance mechanisms remain undefined.
