Fifteen maritime companies consulted by the Getting to Zero Coalition have questioned proposed alternatives to the IMO Net-Zero Framework, warning that the changes could complicate compliance without reducing trade costs or encouraging investment in cleaner marine fuels.

The findings, published by the Global Maritime Forum on 10 November 2026, reflect consultations with shipowners, charterers, fuel producers and infrastructure companies. Most participants were shipowners operating container ships, bulk carriers and tankers.

The Global Maritime Forum’s assessment examined two proposed alternatives to the remedial-unit system included in the framework approved by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) in April 2025.

Under the original approach, companies failing to meet emissions requirements would purchase remedial units, generating payments intended to support shipping’s transition to cleaner fuels.

The proposed direct-contribution mechanism would instead allow companies to direct compliance payments towards approved projects. A voluntary-unit arrangement could enable companies to recover part of their payments through investment returns.

According to the consultation, none of the 15 participating companies considered the alternatives likely to simplify compliance, reduce trade costs or strengthen incentives to invest in zero- and near-zero-emission fuels.

Participants were concerned that allowing investment returns to offset compliance costs could weaken the financial incentive to switch fuels. They also identified potential market distortions, additional administrative requirements and reputational risks.

The findings reflect the views of the companies consulted and should not be interpreted as representing the entire shipping industry.

The IMO Net-Zero Framework was approved at MEPC 83 in April 2025, but its formal adoption was postponed during an extraordinary session in October that year. The proposed measures have therefore not entered into force.

IMO member states are continuing negotiations over the framework’s economic provisions and enforcement arrangements ahead of further meetings.

The next greenhouse gas working group session is scheduled for 23–27 November, followed by MEPC 85 from 30 November to 3 December 2026. The adjourned extraordinary session could resume on 4 December, subject to confirmation by MEPC 85.