European shipping companies will not be forced to pay twice for carbon emissions under both European and International Maritime Organization regulations, European commissioner for sustainable transport and tourism Apostolos Tzitzikostas told delegates at the official opening of Posidonia 2026.
EU's Commitment to Shipping Industry
The European Union has made a strong commitment to ensure that shipowners are not subjected to double carbon charges. This assurance comes as the International Maritime Organization (IMO) develops its global emissions framework. Tzitzikostas emphasized that "European companies will not pay twice, both in Europe and in the IMO."
Financial Implications and Support
The commissioner highlighted that revenues from the EU Emissions Trading System (ETS) should be reinvested into the shipping sector to support the transition to cleaner operations. Funds should be directed towards clean fuels, new propulsion systems, and future technologies.
"Without ships and without ports, there is no competitive Europe," Tzitzikostas stated, underscoring the importance of shipping to the EU's economy.
Strategic Initiatives
The EU has launched two major initiatives: the European Industrial Maritime Strategy and the European Ports Strategy. These initiatives aim to bolster the region's maritime competitiveness and include support for fleet renewal, port infrastructure development, alternative fuels, shore power, digitalisation, and cybersecurity.
Simplification and Competitiveness
Tzitzikostas reassured shipowners about the future of the continent's tonnage tax regimes and the simplification of reporting requirements under both ETS and FuelEU Maritime. "Competitiveness also means fewer unnecessary burdens," he said.
| Initiative | Focus Area |
|---|---|
| European Industrial Maritime Strategy | Fleet renewal, alternative fuels |
| European Ports Strategy | Infrastructure, digitalisation |
Financial Concerns
The commissioner also addressed concerns about Europe's growing reliance on non-European maritime finance providers. He noted an increasing trend of shipping companies turning to external leasing houses and financial institutions for vessel funding.
The EU's proactive stance aims to maintain the attractiveness of European ship registers and ensure the region's maritime sector remains competitive globally.
