The Cyprus Shipping Chamber (CSC) has voiced its support for international efforts to create a common approach to shipping decarbonisation ahead of the International Maritime Organisation’s (IMO) MEPC 84 session.
In a statement, the Chamber welcomed a joint declaration by seven international shipping organisations. It highlighted the upcoming session as an opportunity for member states to align their positions and strengthen dialogue to find workable solutions for reducing emissions without damaging the resilience of global trade.
The CSC stressed that a coordinated and unified approach under the IMO is critical to ensuring stability and clarity for the shipping industry. Such a framework should provide the necessary regulatory certainty while encouraging investment in sustainable alternative marine fuels.
The Chamber also pointed to the need for practical and effective implementation of any new measures to meet greenhouse gas reduction targets, ensuring a fair transition and a level playing field for the sector.
The CSC warned that the absence of a globally harmonised framework could lead to fragmentation through regional or unilateral measures. This could result in higher costs, reduced competitiveness, and increased regulatory uncertainty.
Member states of the IMO were urged to carefully evaluate the proposals on the table at MEPC 84 to ensure decisions are based on real data. The Chamber argued that these decisions should treat all fuels and technologies equally, taking into account their availability and safety.
The Cyprus Shipping Chamber reaffirmed its commitment to supporting a sustainable, competitive, and internationally harmonised shipping sector through active participation and dialogue with all stakeholders.