On August 12, 2025, the United States government formally rejected the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework, a landmark proposal aimed at steering the global shipping industry toward full decarbonization by mid-century.
The U.S. position, which framed the framework as a “global carbon tax on Americans,” was accompanied by a warning of possible retaliatory measures against states that support the initiative.
This development has injected fresh uncertainty into the IMO process and raised profound questions for developing maritime nations, particularly countries like Ghana whose economic lifelines are tightly bound to international shipping.
Shipping accounts for nearly 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, and the IMO has long been under pressure to align its regulatory regime with the Paris Agreement’s climate objectives.
The Net-Zero Framework was intended to provide a binding pathway, combining emission reduction targets, market-based measures, and a proposed Net-Zero Fund to support capacity building in developing states.
While the European Union, small Island developing states, and climate-vulnerable nations have welcomed the framework, Washington’s rejection represents more than policy divergence.
It signifies a fracture in global maritime governance, with the potential to stall momentum on collective action.
Implications for Developing States Like Ghana
First of all, the U.S. has suggested that it may impose economic countermeasures on countries supporting the framework. For Ghana, whose seaborne trade with the U.S. includes cocoa, oil, and manufactured goods, such retaliation could manifest as tariffs, shipping restrictions, or regulatory hurdles.
This would have direct consequences for Ghanaian exporters and port operators.
In addition, the Net-Zero Framework envisaged a financial mechanism to assist developing countries in upgrading ports, modernizing fleets, and adopting low-emission technologies. U.S. opposition threatens the viability of this fund, delaying Ghana’s ability to secure financing for critical maritime infrastructure and capacity-building initiatives.
Ghana now faces a strategic dilemma. Full alignment with the framework risks straining bilateral relations with Washington, while outright opposition would undermine Ghana’s credibility as a responsible IMO member committed to sustainability.
The challenge is to navigate this tension without sacrificing either national interests or international reputation.
What Ghana Should Do
Firstly, Ghana must pursue Balanced Diplomacy. Ghana should maintain its support for global decarbonization, but frame its position in terms of equity and developmental fairness.
By advocating for “common but differentiated responsibilities,” Ghana can highlight its commitment to climate action while recognizing its limited capacity as a developing nation.
Secondly, through the African Union and African Group at IMO, Ghana can push for collective bargaining power. Regional solidarity ensures that no single African state bears the brunt of external pressure and helps amplify calls for climate finance and transitional support.
Furthermore, rather than adopting a confrontational posture, Ghana should engage U.S. counterparts through its diplomatic missions, clarifying that its support for the framework is consistent with global sustainability objectives.
Bilateral maritime dialogues could help soften U.S. concerns and avoid Ghana being targeted by punitive measures.
Another important point is that Ghana must leverage its Multilateral Channels by continuing to work with neutral and technical bodies within the IMO, such as the Marine Environment Protection Committee, to emphasize the practical benefits of decarbonization—improved port competitiveness, reduced fuel costs, and resilience to climate impacts.
Conclusion
The U.S. rejection of the IMO’s Net-Zero Framework signals a turbulent phase in the governance of global shipping. For Ghana and other developing maritime states, the challenge is not only environmental but also diplomatic and economic.
Ghana’s path forward lies in strategic balancing: reaffirming its commitment to sustainable shipping, safeguarding trade relations, and securing a fair share of climate finance.
By adopting a proactive, pragmatic, and diplomatic approach, Ghana can ensure it remains a credible voice at the IMO while protecting its vital national interests.
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Writer: Evans Ago Tetteh, Ph.D., Lecturer, Regional Maritime University and Regent, Kpone Sebrepor.