Global Shipping Carbon Levy Faces U.S. Resistance at Critical IMO Talks

As the IMO negotiates binding decarbonization measures, the U.S. withdraws and pressures nations to reject a proposed emissions levy.

The International Maritime Organization (IMO) is finalizing negotiations in London on a potential global carbon levy to decarbonize the shipping industry by around 2050.
The U.S., under the Trump administration, has withdrawn from the talks, labeling the proposed measures 'unfair' and threatening reciprocal actions against any imposed fees on U.S. ships.
Proponents, including Pacific and Caribbean nations, view the levy as a critical opportunity to finance climate initiatives and accelerate shipping's transition to greener operations.
Opposition from countries like China, Brazil, and Saudi Arabia centers on concerns about economic competitiveness and equity, highlighting international divisions on the issue.
Despite U.S. resistance, the majority of IMO delegates remain engaged, with many emphasizing the necessity of ambitious carbon pricing to achieve net-zero emissions and support climate-vulnerable regions.