Experts in the maritime sector are calling for an integrated regulatory framework to align European and international decarbonisation policies. During a conference organized by the Port Authority of Valencia, concerns were raised about the lack of coordination between the EU’s ETS and FuelEU Maritime regulations and the IMO’s upcoming global emissions framework set to begin in 2027. This misalignment could lead to double penalties for shipowners, who would be required to report emissions under both systems and potentially face overlapping financial obligations.
Industry representatives emphasized the need for clear and harmonized rules to support investment decisions and avoid regulatory confusion. While the current regulations are not inherently incompatible, they measure emissions differently and create operational challenges. Stakeholders like MAN Energy Solutions and Baleària highlighted the importance of flexibility in fuel choices and the urgency for Europe to streamline its approach to avoid penalizing its own maritime operators.
SOURCE: EL CANAL MARÍTIMO Y LOGÍSTICO