IMO MEPC83 – April May Define the Future of Maritime Decarbonization

How MEPC83 Affects Shipping Companies: Compliance, Costs, and Uncertainty

April 2025 could be a pivotal month for shipping — especially in terms of how MEPC83 affects shipping companies navigating a rapidly evolving regulatory landscape. The 83rd session of the IMO’s Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) convenes in London on April 7, and the stakes are high for decarbonization policy.

The new IMO GHG strategy calls for:

A 20–30% reduction in emissions by 2030
70% emissions reduction by 2040
Over 5% of fuels used to be climate-friendly by 2030

Circulating drafts hint at a global bunker-standard-based policy – something many already call “FuelEU+.” But adoption is anything but guaranteed.

The Process

April 2025 (MEPC83): Measures will be discussed and ideally agreed upon
October 2025 (MEPC84): Formal approval targeted
January 1, 2027: Expected entry into force

Still, uncertainties loom. Will the current draft receive sufficient support?

Key Implications: What MEPC83 Means for Shipping Companies

The outcome of MEPC83 could reshape maritime compliance for years to come. If the proposed global fuel standard is adopted, questions arise:

If adopted, Will the EU, UK, Turkey and others scrap or harmonise their existing regulations?
If not: Will more ETS-style regional regulations emerge, creating a patchwork that increases complexity and cost?

Timing is critical. Clarity may not arrive until late 2025, and shipping companies must act now to remain agile and informed. Understanding how MEPC83 affects shipping companies is essential for a proactive strategy in 2025 and beyond.