On April 11, 2025, the 83rd session of the Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC) of the International Maritime Organization (IMO) approved the "IMO Net-Zero Framework"—the world's first regulatory framework combining mandatory emission limits with greenhouse gas (GHG) pricing for an entire industrial sector. Aimed at driving international shipping towards net-zero emissions by around 2050, the framework will be incorporated as new Chapter 5 into Annex VI of the *International Convention for the Prevention of Pollution from Ships* (MARPOL). It requires ocean-going vessels with a gross tonnage exceeding 5,000 to gradually reduce the GHG emission intensity of their fuel life cycle (GFI), sets two-tier compliance targets for non-compliant ships, and allows balancing emission gaps through transferring surplus credits, using self-held credits, or contributing to the "IMO Net-Zero Fund". The fund's revenues will support low-emission ships, innovation, and infrastructure in developing countries. Amendments related to the framework are expected to be formally adopted in October 2025 and enter into force in 2027. Meanwhile, the session also delivered outcomes on multiple marine environmental protection topics, including the 2025 Marine Plastic Waste Action Plan and the review progress of the Ballast Water Management Convention. View Details >