Trump Renewed Attacks on IMO Net-Zero Framework at UN

US President Donald Trump has renewed his attack on the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework during his address to the 81st United Nations General Assembly. The Trump administration is accusing the UN shipping agency of attempting to impose a global carbon tax that would significantly raise international shipping costs.

Background and Trump's Accusations

During his speech, President Trump claimed that last year, his administration had to intervene to prevent the IMO from secretly establishing what he called "a first-ever global carbon tax." He alleged this measure could increase international shipping costs by 10 to 20%, possibly more. According to gCaptain, in September 2026, Trump warned during the UN General Assembly that while he is president, there will be no global taxes.

Trump’s remarks come as member states prepare for another attempt to finalize the Net-Zero Framework (NZF) in December of the same year. The NZF aims to combine progressively tighter greenhouse gas-intensity requirements with an economic mechanism requiring higher-emitting ships to make compliance payments while rewarding vessels using lower-emission fuels.

The Trump administration played a significant role in last year's decision to postpone adoption, according to The Maritime Executive and Hellenic Shipping News. Ahead of the vote, US officials threatened countries supporting the framework with measures including tariffs, visa restrictions, port fees, and sanctions. This action led to an 57-49 vote postponing the adoption for one year.

Details of the Net-Zero Framework

The IMO's proposed NZF includes a global fuel standard and an economic mechanism designed to price greenhouse gas emissions from international shipping, as outlined by Ship & Bunker. This framework seeks to progressively reduce ships’ well-to-wake GHG fuel intensity starting in 2028.

Ships that fall short of the direct compliance target would be required to purchase remedial units to cover their emissions deficit through contributions to the IMO Net-Zero Fund. The Tier 1 remedial unit price is set at $100/mtCO2e for 2028-2030, while those failing both targets must buy additional Tier 2 deficits at a higher price of $380/mtCO2e.

Despite these measures, formal adoption was postponed in October 2025. At the IMO's 84th Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) meeting in April 2026, the US and other countries opposed proposals with economic measures, according to Hellenic Shipping News. The US State Department also reported that at MEPC 84, Washington called for an "energy-all" approach, arguing against restrictions on conventional fuels.

Implications for Ship Operators

The renewed criticism from the Trump administration could have significant implications for ship operators worldwide. If adopted and enforced, the Net-Zero Framework would require a substantial investment in cleaner technologies or compliance payments, both of which would increase operational costs. Operators should prepare for potential additional expenses related to GHG emissions management.

Given the strong opposition from the US, other countries may also face increased pressure to back down on their support for the framework. This could lead to further delays or even a complete rework of the NZF, potentially shifting timelines and expectations for compliance measures.

The maritime industry must continue monitoring developments at the IMO closely as they prepare for potential changes in regulations that will affect their operations and costs over the next decade. The immediate impact of Trump's speech is to heighten uncertainty until a resolution can be reached at upcoming meetings.