Norway has formally opposed a proposal from Liberia that would alter the International Maritime Organization’s Net-Zero Framework (NZF), according to Ship & Bunker. Norway argues the changes are inconsistent with the IMO’s 2050 net-zero target.
According to Ship & Bunker, Liberia’s proposal, submitted ahead of MEPC 84, would link the GHG fuel intensity (GFI) trajectory to “commercially available fuels,” with eligibility based on price, market availability, and scalability. The proposal reportedly gained support from several member states at that meeting.
Fossil LNG Positioned to Benefit
In its submission to the IMO ahead of technical talks scheduled for September, Norway said that very few low-carbon marine fuels would meet the affordability threshold proposed by Liberia, under which fuel prices could not exceed 100% above the global average price of fossil reference fuel, Ship & Bunker reports.
Norway further stated that fossil LNG would likely be the only alternative fuel able to reach the proposed minimum 4% market share without additional regulatory support. Under Liberia’s proposed methodology, this would translate into a GFI reduction requirement of approximately 20% over 30 years, according to the submission cited by Ship & Bunker.
Norway warned that this approach would fail to provide a clear demand signal for low-GHG fuels and could risk entrenching continued reliance on fossil fuels. The country also objected to proposed removals of key economic mechanisms within the framework, including remedial units and the IMO Net-Zero Fund.
“This proposal cannot be supported by Norway,” the country stated in its submission, as reported by Ship & Bunker.
Framework Decision Delayed
The NZF failed to secure a final vote in October 2025, with the decision postponed by one year, according to Ship & Bunker. Two inter-sessional meetings are now scheduled for September and November in an effort to build broader consensus ahead of MEPC 85.
Does This Matter to You?
The outcome of this regulatory debate could influence which marine fuels gain long-term traction under IMO decarbonization rules. If Liberia’s proposal advances, fossil LNG could see continued or expanded use as a compliance fuel, affecting fuel procurement decisions, bunkering infrastructure investment, and compliance cost planning across the industry. Conversely, Norway’s opposition signals continued regulatory uncertainty around the framework’s final shape, which may affect long-term fuel strategy planning for vessel operators and fuel suppliers. The direct near-term impact remains unclear until the inter-sessional meetings and MEPC 85 produce further clarity, as reported by Ship & Bunker.
Gulf Bunkering does not provide operational or security guidance. This article is for informational purposes only. Operators should consult flag state authorities, P&I clubs, and relevant advisories for decisions relating to transit planning.
Sources: Ship & Bunker
