Impact of the delay in the adoption of the net zero emissions framework by the IMO

Priority question for written answer P-004296/2025
to the Commission
Rule 144
Rosa Serrano Sierra (S&D)

On 17 October 2025, the IMO postponed the adoption of the international net zero emissions framework for maritime transport by one year, highlighting a complex scenario marked by geopolitical tensions.

This delay creates uncertainty as to the coherence between European regional measures - such as the Emissions Trading System (maritime ETS) and FuelEU Maritime - and future international IMO provisions. The maritime sector has expressed concerns about the possibility of a double regulatory burden arising from the possible co-existence of both systems.

In view of the above:

• 1.The Commission had indicated that it would review European regional measures to bring them into line with IMO decisions. Following this postponement, what plan and strategy does the Commission envisage for this transitional year?
• 2.If a comprehensive market measure does not enter into force, how does the Commission see the maritime ETS and the FuelEU Maritime regulation evolving in the absence of a global framework?
• 3.What instruments does the Commission envisage to preserve the competitiveness of the European maritime sector vis-à-vis third countries?

Submitted: 3.11.2025