Maritime rules overhaul begins 2025

In its latest report, Future IMO and ILO Legislation – Spring 2025, LR outlines a comprehensive suite of statutory changes coming into effect on 1 May 2025, targeting environmental protection, safety standards and seafarer welfare.

Key changes include the entry into force of the Hong Kong Convention on Ship Recycling from 26 June 2025, and updates to MARPOL Annex VI from 1 August, tightening data collection on greenhouse gas emissions under the IMO DCS.

Mark Towl, Lloyd’s Register’s principal regulatory risk specialist, highlighted the scale of the shift. “The number and complexity of the regulatory updates that are taking place is challenging to understand,” he said.

“The recent agreement to a net zero framework to reduce the GHG intensity of shipping is historically among the biggest regulatory disrupters to shipping’s business model.”

The IMO’s Net-Zero Framework, expected to be adopted in October 2025, will require ships to begin reducing emissions from 2028, with ambitious targets through 2040. Supporting guidelines, including the 2024 life cycle GHG intensity standards for marine fuels, will also be further developed.

From May 2025, the Mediterranean Sea becomes a Sulphur Oxides Emission Control Area, requiring ships to use fuels with a sulphur content no greater than 0.10%. Canada’s Arctic region will follow with phased-in NOx and SOx restrictions.

Safety and seafarer welfare also receive significant attention. From 2026, changes to SOLAS and the LSA Code will update fire protection and survival craft standards, while amendments to the STCW Code will require training to prevent sexual assault and harassment.

“Compliance will involve revising operational procedures, upgrading equipment, ensuring crews’ training is updated,” Towl added, “and planning for future technologies that contribute to a safer and more sustainable future.”