The US delegation has reportedly withdrawn from negotiations at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) 83rd session.
The U.S. government has warned it may impose retaliatory measures if international rules result in fees on American vessels based on greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions or fuel types. At the center of the talks is an economic element that would establish a pricing mechanism for maritime emissions.
Allegedly, the US has threatened with reciprocal measures if IMO Member States decide to impose a GHG pricing mechanism. In previous talks leading up to MEPC 83, the United States had remained largely silent until the end, expressing concern about fairness and scope.
Additionally, while some developed countries, including the EU and Canada, expressed interest in compromise, others such as Brazil, China, and the UAE voiced concern.
It remains to be seen how all these conflicting voices will blend to reach a decision by the end of the week, as the industry awaits the plan that will draw the next steps toward a net-zero future.
