Maritime leaders call for global IMO regulation ahead of December summit
Cubierto por 3 fuentesPublicado
- safety 4seaShipping leaders call for IMO regulation ahead of December Net-Zero Framework talks
- Hellenics Shipping newsShipping community issues clear call for IMO regulation to turn first-mover action into a global transition
- Ship managment internationalShipping leaders reaffirm importance of IMO regulation at GMF Annual Summit in Shanghai
Leaders from across the maritime value chain gathered in Shanghai from October 21 to 22, 2026, at the Global Maritime Forum's Annual Summit, where a clear message emerged in favor of global regulation by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) as a key tool to accelerate shipping's energy transition. The gathering took place at a decisive moment for the IMO's Net-Zero Framework, which will face key discussions in December.
Remarks from the IMO Secretary-General
IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez took part in the summit and underscored the importance of having a global regulatory framework to encourage the investments needed to meet the organization's emissions targets. Dominguez stressed that the goal of decarbonizing the sector by 2050 remains in place, but that in addition to IMO action, countries need to invest in infrastructure and the energy sector needs to invest in new fuels, since greater diversification means greater resilience.
A space for dialogue without formal agreement
Over two days, shipowners, charterers, financiers, policymakers and cargo owners discussed issues ranging from decarbonization and energy security to maritime governance, freedom of navigation, seafarer safety and supply chain disruptions. Johannah Christensen, CEO of the Global Maritime Forum, highlighted the value of this kind of gathering at a time of heightened tension for the industry. According to the Global Maritime Forum, expressions of support for regulation do not constitute a formal industry-wide agreement nor a decision by the IMO, whose regulatory process continues on its own track.
New report on China and green corridors
As part of the summit, the Global Maritime Forum released a new report titled 'Green shipping corridors: How China is re-energising the global movement,' which examines China's strategic strengths in three of the four pillars considered key to launching a green shipping corridor.
Leadership change at the All Aboard Alliance
During the gathering, it was also announced that Jeremy Sutton, CEO of Swire Shipping, will become the new co-chair of the All Aboard Alliance, alongside current co-chair Meei Wong, CEO of Circle Digital Ventures. Sutton noted that building a safer, more inclusive and respectful maritime industry is not only the right thing to do, but essential for the future of shipping. The Alliance's work to develop global standards across ten areas of life at sea was a central topic of discussion, particularly regarding seafarer safety in the Strait of Hormuz.
Copenhagen to host in 2027
The closing session confirmed that the Global Maritime Forum's Annual Summit 2027 will be held in Copenhagen, Denmark, on September 28-29, coinciding with the tenth anniversary of the organization, which is headquartered in that city. The 2026 edition was the first to be held in mainland China and was supported by Shanghai Maritime University, Shanghai International Port Group, the Hongkou District government and the Baltic Exchange.
