Greece, one of the world’s biggest maritime powers, is set to abstain from a key vote on a global carbon tax for shipping, marking a withdrawal from previous support for an International Maritime Organization (IMO) program to pay for the sector’s carbon emissions.
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Athens now plans to withhold a vote on the proposal, which would aim to impose a tax on marine greenhouse gas emissions of more than 1 billion tonnes a year, according to a person familiar with the matter. The change underscores growing concern in the world’s second-largest ship-owning nation about the potential economic implications of the move.
Greece previously voted in favor of a draft version of the framework in April, but the government has since expressed dismay at the plan, questioning its feasibility and cost implications for global companies. “Athens has always been skeptical of the net zero framework and its impact on the shipping industry,” the source said. The Greek government declined to comment publicly.
The vote comes as geopolitical tensions over marine decarbonisation deepen. While the European Union urges member states to support a carbon tax, the United States strongly opposes it. Washington has warned that if the IMO continues it may retaliate with tariffs, visa restrictions and port charges. The country has also proposed adding one more procedural step before charges can be laid – effectively delaying implementation.
Greece’s decision to abstain represents a break with the EU’s unified stance on climate leadership. The European Commission last week described the IMO’s net zero plan as an “important milestone” in decarbonising global shipping and ensuring fair competition.
Greek officials have reportedly conveyed their reservations in writing to EU officials, citing concerns about the availability and cost of cleaner marine fuels. “The framework depends on technologies that are not yet viable at scale,” the source said. It penalizes companies that cannot access alternative fuels and raises costs as shipowners compete for scarce resources.
The outcome of this week’s IMO vote is uncertain, especially amid US resistance and divergent views among major maritime nations. In April, the draft plan received broad international support, but industry concerns about cost, compliance and competitiveness have since intensified.
According to data from Clarkson Research Services, Greece is the second largest ship-owning country in the world – after China. Its position carries considerable weight in shaping the direction of global maritime policy, especially in the powerful European shipping community.
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