The Greek government, representing one of the world’s largest maritime fleets, has called on the International Maritime Organization (IMO) to adopt a decarbonisation framework that is fair, realistic and globally accepted, rather than one that may unfairly penalise shipping and disturb global trade.
In a statement issued by Vasilis Kikilias, Greece’s Minister of Maritime Affairs and Insular Policy, he welcomed the one-year postponement of the IMO’s so-called Net-Zero Framework, saying the additional time should be used to align ambitions with practical industry realities.
Kikilias stressed that international shipping must be governed by rules “accepted by all member states” and that punitive mechanisms risk undermining the stability of world trade. He drew attention to the need for realistic transition timetables, fair treatment of transitional fuels such as LNG, and smarter incentives rather than blanket penalties.
At the same time, the Union of Greek Shipowners echoed the minister’s view, describing the delay as a “new opportunity” to craft a sustainable, effective international framework that gives shipping companies and fuel suppliers time to adapt.
Greece emphasised that, while it remains committed to decarbonisation, it must protect its competitive global fleet, which commands a leading position in international shipping. The government and industry warn that unrealistic or overly aggressive regulation could prompt investment delays, or lead shipowners to shift operations to jurisdictions with lighter regulatory burdens.
