Interferry urges EU to align GHG rules with IMO

Interferry is calling on the European Commission to urgently align its EU climate rules with the IMO’s newly agreed Net-Zero framework. The global ferry industry group warns that without alignment, European operators could end up paying twice for the same emissions.

The concern centers around the overlap between the EU ETS and FuelEU Maritime regulations and the new IMO system. Interferry says the double burden would hit ferry operators hard, threatening key transport links and driving traffic back onto Europe’s already congested roads.

“We cannot have a situation where operators are paying twice for the same emissions. The European Commission pledged to align its rules once a strong global framework was established at the IMO. That framework is now in place. It’s time for the European Commission to deliver on its promise, ensure regulatory consistency, and protect the vital role ferries play in Europe’s economy and connectivity,” commented Johan Roos, Director of Regulatory Affairs, Interferry.

Ferries move around 800 million passengers and 200 million vehicles across Europe each year. Interferry points out that half the world’s RoRo passenger ship tonnage operates in European waters. These services are essential. They relieve road congestion and support both trade and tourism.

But ferry customers are price sensitive. If operators are forced to raise ticket prices to cover extra emission costs, Interferry says they risk losing business to road transport—which currently doesn’t face similar carbon charges.

The group says it’s unacceptable to penalize ferry operators with double compliance. It urges the EU to follow through on its promise to review its climate rules and work toward harmonization with the IMO framework.

Background

The IMO agreement reached in April 2025 introduces a Global Fuel Standard. This requires ships to cut their annual GHG fuel intensity and, if needed, purchase “Remedial Units.” Meanwhile, the EU already enforces its own GHG limits under FuelEU Maritime and charges carbon costs via the ETS.

Although both systems aim to promote greener fuels, Interferry says the different rules, pricing systems, and reporting requirements put operators in a tough spot. The association warns that without coordination, Europe’s ferry sector—and the wider transport network—could face serious disruption.

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