The United States has warned it may impose visa restrictions and sanctions on United Nations member states that support the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) net-zero emissions framework for the global shipping sector.

Washington officials argue the IMO’s proposal, aimed at achieving carbon neutrality in international shipping by 2050, could effectively create a global taxation system that increases the cost of energy and goods. They claim such a policy would impose heavy economic burdens on consumers, logistics companies, and energy suppliers worldwide.

In a joint statement, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Energy Secretary Chris Wright, and Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy declared their strong opposition to what they called “a politically driven environmental scheme.” They asserted that the United States “will not tolerate international measures that threaten national sovereignty or domestic energy security.”

The Biden administration is reportedly considering multiple retaliatory actions, including restrictions on port access for vessels registered under nations backing the IMO policy, limitations on entry visas for diplomats and maritime officials, and targeted financial sanctions. These steps are designed to deter countries from endorsing what Washington views as an economically damaging agenda.

Meanwhile, supporters of the IMO’s decarbonization plan maintain that unified global rules are essential to avoid fragmented national policies and to accelerate the maritime industry’s transition to cleaner fuels. They argue that without coordinated international action, emissions reductions will remain inconsistent and less effective.

This confrontation underscores growing geopolitical tension over environmental policy, as major economies weigh the balance between climate commitments and economic competitiveness.