Introduction
As the global maritime sector faces increasing pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, Greece—one of the world’s leading shipping nations—has taken a cautious stance on the proposed International Maritime Organization (IMO) carbon tax. The move has sparked debate across the industry, highlighting the tension between climate goals and economic realities in global shipping.
Background: The IMO’s Carbon Levy Proposal
The IMO has been working on a framework to introduce a carbon pricing mechanism for international shipping. The goal is to make shipowners pay for their emissions, encouraging investment in cleaner technologies and alternative fuels. The proposed levy is part of a broader strategy to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, in line with the Paris Agreement.
However, the plan hit a significant roadblock in October 2025, when the IMO postponed its vote on the carbon tax for another year. The delay came after intense lobbying from several countries, including the United States and Greece. [bloomberg.com]
Greece’s Position: Economic Concerns Over Climate Action
Greece, which controls over 20% of the global merchant fleet, has expressed concerns about the economic impact of the carbon levy. Greek shipping companies argue that the tax could increase operational costs, reduce competitiveness, and disproportionately affect smaller operators.
According to Thomas A. Kazakos, Secretary General of the International Chamber of Shipping, the industry needs regulatory clarity to make long-term investments in decarbonization. The uncertainty caused by the delay may hinder innovation and slow down the transition to cleaner shipping technologies.
Industry Reactions: Divided Over the Delay
The postponement of the carbon tax vote has drawn mixed reactions:
✅ Supporters of the Delay:
- Argue that more time is needed to assess the economic impact.
- Believe that a rushed implementation could harm global trade.
- Emphasize the need for fair treatment of developing nations and smaller shipping firms.
❌ Critics of the Delay:
- Warn that postponement undermines climate diplomacy.
- Say it sends a negative signal ahead of the COP30 climate summit in Brazil.
- Stress that shipping emissions—over 1 billion tons annually—must be addressed urgently.
The Role of the United States
The U.S. played a significant role in influencing the IMO’s decision. Under the Trump administration, the U.S. opposed the carbon levy, calling it a “Global Green New Scam Tax on Shipping.” The administration reportedly used diplomatic pressure, including threats of tariffs and visa delays, to sway votes against the measure.
This geopolitical interference has raised concerns about the future of multilateral climate negotiations, with experts warning that climate policy is becoming increasingly politicized.
Implications for Greece and Global Shipping
Greece’s resistance to the carbon tax reflects broader challenges in balancing economic sustainability with environmental responsibility. While Greek shipowners are investing in cleaner technologies—such as LNG propulsion, wind-assisted systems, and energy efficiency upgrades—they remain wary of regulatory measures that could disrupt business models.
The delay in adopting the carbon levy could:
- Slow down investment in green shipping technologies
- Deepen inequities between large and small operators
- Increase the cost of future climate action
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Maritime Carbon Regulation?
With the IMO vote postponed, attention now turns to the COP30 summit in Brazil, where global leaders will discuss updated climate plans. The shipping industry will be under scrutiny, especially as the Paris Agreement does not directly cover its emissions.
Experts believe that a global carbon pricing mechanism is inevitable, but it must be:
- Fair and transparent
- Economically viable
- Technologically achievable
The European Union is already moving forward with its own Emissions Trading System (ETS) for maritime transport, which will begin charging ships for emissions in EU waters starting January 2026.
Conclusion
Greece’s cautious approach to the IMO carbon tax highlights the complex dynamics of climate policy in the maritime sector. As one of the top shipping nations, Greece plays a critical role in shaping global regulations. The challenge now is to find a path that balances environmental goals with economic realities—ensuring that the transition to clean shipping is both inclusive and effective.
The Maritime-Hub Editorial Team
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Maritime-Hub. Readers are advised to research this information before making decisions based on it.
