Global shipping faces first international emissions fee under new climate agreement

A group of major shipping nations agreed Friday to impose a global fee on greenhouse gas emissions from ships, setting the stage for a 2027 launch despite resistance from the U.S. and some large maritime economies.

Jennifer McDermott and Sibi Arasu report for The Associated Press.

In short:

• The International Maritime Organization (IMO) will charge a minimum of $100 per ton of greenhouse gas emissions from ships that exceed certain thresholds, aiming to raise $11–13 billion annually for green shipping investments.
• The measure, opposed by the United States and some large maritime nations, will be finalized in October and implemented in 2027; it includes a marine fuel standard to transition toward cleaner fuels.
• A parallel decision established a new emissions control area in the North-East Atlantic, requiring ships in the region to meet tighter pollution standards.

Key quote:

“We came as climate vulnerable countries— with the greatest need and the clearest solution. And what did we face? Weak alternatives from the world’s biggest economies.”

— Simon Kofe, Tuvalu’s minister for transport, energy, communication, and innovation

Why this matters:

Shipping accounts for nearly 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions — more than most countries — and it's one of the few sectors not covered by the Paris climate agreement. Massive container vessels burn heavy fuel oil, a thick, tar-like residue that is among the dirtiest fossil fuels still in widespread use. These emissions not only drive climate change but also release harmful air pollutants that affect coastal communities. The International Maritime Organization’s plan to impose a fee on these emissions marks a milestone in global climate policy, albeit a contentious one. Still, the move may reshape how global trade is powered and who benefits — or suffers — from that transition.

Learn more: Rich and poor nations clash over proposed shipping emissions levy to fund climate action