The Federal Maritime Commission (FMC) Chair, Laura DiBella, has joined the U.S. delegation at the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) climate talks, issuing a strong warning that signals a potentially more confrontational U.S. stance against the proposed global carbon pricing framework for shipping.
In a statement released Monday, DiBella announced her participation in the IMO’s 84th Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) session in London, emphasizing U.S. opposition to the Net-Zero Framework. She described the proposal as “an unnecessary tax on U.S. shippers and vessels operating in international waters.”
The statement highlighted the FMC’s authority under 46 U.S.C. §§ 42106 and 42107, which allows the Commission to address “unfavorable shipping conditions.” These powers include imposing fines and, in extreme cases, barring foreign-flagged vessels from accessing U.S. ports.
“The FMC is committed to protecting U.S. cargo and closely monitors foreign regulations or practices that could create unfavorable conditions for U.S. shipping in international trade,” the statement read.
Historically, the FMC has not played a prominent role in U.S. climate negotiations at the IMO, which are typically led by the U.S. Coast Guard and State Department, with support from agencies like the Maritime Administration and Environmental Protection Agency. DiBella’s involvement and the FMC’s statement suggest a broader effort by the Trump administration to oppose the Net-Zero Framework.
The proposed framework, which was delayed last year after a contentious MEPC session, aims to establish greenhouse gas intensity standards for ships and impose fees on non-compliant vessels. Proponents argue the plan is essential to bridge the cost gap between fossil fuels and low- or zero-emission alternatives, while also preventing fragmented regional regulations.
However, the U.S. has consistently opposed the framework. Last year, the Trump administration played a key role in delaying its adoption, contributing to a narrow 57-49 vote to postpone the decision. DiBella’s recent statement reinforces this opposition, warning that the framework could have “anticompetitive and inflationary” effects on the global economy, with costs ultimately passed on to U.S. consumers.
The timing of this intervention is notable, as major shipping organizations—including BIMCO, the International Chamber of Shipping, and the World Shipping Council—have recently urged governments to support a unified global emissions framework to avoid a patchwork of regional rules.
While the FMC’s statement references its authority to address unfavorable foreign shipping conditions, it does not clarify how these powers might be applied if the IMO adopts the framework.
The MEPC 84 session is expected to focus on establishing a greenhouse gas working group and advancing discussions on mid-term emissions measures under Agenda Item 7. Other environmental issues, such as air pollution controls, ballast water management, and underwater noise, are also on the agenda.
DiBella’s presence at the talks underscores her growing influence within the FMC. Appointed as chair by President Trump in January, shortly after joining the Commission, her role aligns with the administration’s broader “Restoring America’s Maritime Dominance” initiative.
Despite the broader agenda, the delayed Net-Zero Framework remains the central issue looming over the meeting. A final vote on the framework is anticipated at a reconvened extraordinary MEPC session later this year.
Source: gCaptain