Global delays on new emissions rules for ships leave Bonett 'disconcerted'

Transport Minister Chris Bonett has raised concerns over the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) decision to postpone discussions on the adoption of the Net-Zero Framework, a key global climate initiative for the shipping sector.

Speaking at Maritime World, a conference held at the Marriott Hotel, in St Julian’s, he described the IMO’s recent move as making him feel unsettled.

“I have to admit that what happened a few weeks ago at the IMO left me a little disconcerted,” he told a packed conference room. “I hope we don’t waste a year when it comes to the Net-Zero Framework.”

The minister was a keynote speaker at the event, which brought together major players from the global maritime industry to discuss the sector’s future, including decarbonisation efforts.

Bonett called on attendees to adopt a global mindset when tackling maritime emissions and warned against a fragmented approach.

“Regional and protective measures may look good in the short term but, ultimately, could damage world trade in the future,” he said. “Imagine a world where we could have six or seven or 10 different emission trading schemes around the world. That would be a disaster.”

The IMO’s Net-Zero Framework is a proposed regulatory package aimed at reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions from ships, in line with its 2023 GHG Strategy. It includes two major instruments: a global fuel standard and a worldwide GHG emissions pricing mechanism.

The framework was first approved during the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) session in April. However, during the most recent extraordinary session of the MEPC in October, progress stalled. The meeting ended with an agreement to adjourn discussions until October 2026.

“If we really want to decarbonise, we have to commit ourselves as an industry and governments and policymakers to make sure we deliver on our decarbonisation promise,” Bonett said.

Prime Minister Robert Abela also addressed the conference via video message. He underlined Malta’s maritime heritage and highlighted the island’s prominence as a shipping hub.

“Today, Malta is the leading flag registry in Europe and the number one yachting registry in the world,” he said.

By the end of the first quarter of 2025, over 10,000 vessels were registered under the Maltese flag, placing Malta sixth globally.

Environment Minister Miriam Dalli, who also spoke at the event, stressed that international collaboration is essential.

“No country can work in isolation and deliver solutions alone,” she said.