From 1 January 2026, the International Maritime Organisation (IMO) will be tightening its climate targets. The focus is on more binding efficiency paths for ships, stricter inspection obligations for shipping companies and concrete preparatory steps for global CO₂ pricing. For exporters, this means more transparency, more documentation - and potentially higher CO₂ cost components.
Immediately helpful:
Timetables → https://odsorient.com/fahrplaene
What do I need to bear in mind when shipping by RoRo? → https://odsorient.com/was-muss-ich-bei-einer-roro-verschiffung-beachten
The phase 2 revision of these instruments will start in 2026. The CII pathway will be tightened, gaps closed and integration into national roadmaps prepared.
| Period | Measure | Relevance |
|---|---|---|
| 2024–2025 | Phase 1 review | Carriers optimise fleets & routes |
| from 2026 | Phase 2 launch | Sharper CII targets & more control |
| 2027–2030 | Progressive CII targets | Annual increase in efficiency necessary |
| from 2028 ff. | Fuel/pricing elements | Visible CO₂ costs in offers |
You should specifically request CO₂ KPIs in tenders:
Carriers often plan with adjusted transit times due to CII requirements. Use A/B departures and keep a flex window open:
Timetables → https://odsorient.com/fahrplaene
Proper preparation prevents delays and emissions caused by subsequent travelling:
What do I need to bear in mind when shipping by RoRo? → https://odsorient.com/was-muss-ich-bei-einer-roro-verschiffung-beachten
| scenario | CO₂ transparency | Risk | Recommendation |
|---|---|---|---|
| base | rudimentary | high | 2. departure + alerts |
| Advanced | standardised | moderate | KPIs in RFQ, gate-ready SLA |
| leader | granular | low | Contract KPIs, test with NZF services |
What specifically will change from 2026 onwards?
More binding CII targets, stricter rectification obligations, more emissions data in offers.
Do I have to report as an exporter?
No - but you should actively demand emissions-related KPIs.
Are freight rates rising?
Possible - depending on route, carrier and efficiency. Please ask for an individual offer.
What is the difference between EEXI and CII?
EEXI = technical efficiency, CII = operational efficiency.
Do other regulations apply?
Yes - e.g. EU-ETS and FuelEU Maritime in addition to IMO.
The 2026 IMO CO₂ regulations are a milestone on the road to climate-neutral shipping. Those who integrate CO₂ key figures into their tenders and processes at an early stage, utilise flexible routing and work with data-strong partners will secure competitive advantages - even with dynamic carrier strategies.
Disclaimer: All information in this article has been carefully researched but is subject to change at any time. ODS Orient accepts no liability for the topicality, accuracy and completeness of the information provided.
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