The International Maritime Organisation (IMO) is tightening its climate targets again in 2025: With the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI), stricter limits in the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII) and the expanded Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan III (SEEMP III), the ecological pressure on shipowners, charterers - and above all shippers - is increasing. This guide shows what the new environmental requirements for ship transport in 2025 mean, what deadlines apply and how you can plan your exports for the future.
By 2030, the CO₂ fleet intensity should be at least 40 % below the 2008 level. From 1 January 2025, the EEXI limits will fall by a further 5 %. Ships without a valid certificate risk demurrage or charter bans. For exporters, this means less cargo space and higher green premiums - a clear advantage for companies that plan for the environmental requirements early on.
You can find a practical guide to RoRo shipping here here.
The Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index rates each ship (≥ 400 GT) based on engine power, displacement, design speed and year of construction.
Current details can be found at DNV and the IMO.
In addition to the one-off EEXI, the Carbon Intensity Indicator measures the actual CO₂ intensity per tonne-mile on an annual basis. A rating of D for two years or E for one year requires a Corrective Action Plan from 2025.
Further information at DNV - CII.
The Ship Energy Efficiency Management Plan III combines monitoring, targets and measures - crucial for shippers in Scope 3 reporting. Find out more at IMO.
| Measure | Focus | Compulsory from | Consequence in case of violation |
|---|---|---|---|
| EEXI | Technology (one-off) | Certificate from 2023, stricter from 2025 | Prohibition of departure or charter |
| CII | Operation (annual) | Rating A-E since 2023 | Corrective Plan, flag sanctions |
| SEEMP III | Management & Reporting | since 2023, update 2025 | Harbour/flag penalties |
See also our RoRo checklist.
| To-do | Benefit | Status |
|---|---|---|
| Carrier white list with EEXI certificates | Secure cargo hold | ☐ |
| Include CII rating in RFQ | Receive ESG data | ☐ |
| Clause "Rating ≥ C" in contracts | Ensure compliance | ☐ |
| Allow for transit buffer +10 % | Consider slow steaming | ☐ |
| Couple CO₂ reporting | Fulfil EU-CSRD | ☐ |
| Technology | CO₂ savings | Effect for shippers |
|---|---|---|
| EPL (motor limit) | 5-10 % | Longer running time |
| Propeller nozzles | 3-6 % | unchanged |
| Wind assistance | up to 10 % | Possible harbour restrictions |
| LNG/Methanol | 15-25 % | Low CO₂ factor |
| AI routing | ≈ 5 % | dynamic ETA |
How do I recognise compliant carriers?
EEXI certificate and CII rating (ideally A-C).
Does EEXI apply to feeder vessels < 400 GT?
No; CII only applies from 5,000 GT.
What happens with rating "E"?
Flag state can decommission the ship - replacement carrier required.
Can I negotiate CO₂ surcharges?
Yes - long-term green freight contracts ensure stable rates.
The 2025 environmental regulations bring with them EEXI upgrades, stricter CII limits and SEEMP III. Shippers secure advantages by choosing carriers with A/B ratings, integrating CO₂ clauses and planning time buffers. ODS Orient provides support with fleet checks, reporting and routing strategies.
All information has been carefully researched but is subject to change. ODS Orient assumes no liability for accuracy and completeness.
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