IMO Workshops Advance Maritime Decarbonization in South-East Asia

The International Maritime Organization, in collaboration with the World Maritime University and national authorities, has delivered two major workshops in Viet Nam and the Philippines aimed at accelerating maritime decarbonization across South-East Asia under the SMART-C GHG Project.

In Vietnam, stakeholders gathered in Ho Chi Minh City to strengthen national efforts around greenhouse gas emissions data and development of a maritime National Action Plan (NAP). Discussions focused on aligning domestic regulations with the IMO’s 2023 GHG Strategy and MARPOL Annex VI, while improving systems for emissions monitoring and reporting. A visit to Cat Lai Port provided practical insights into port operations and emissions-related practices. The workshop also resulted in the establishment of a national taskforce and the development of a maritime emissions baseline to support future policy planning.

In the Philippines, a second workshop held in Cebu formally launched the country’s participation in the SMART-C GHG initiative. Government agencies, shipping companies, ports, shipyards, and research institutions examined challenges around emissions data collection and integration, while reviewing how national regulations can better align with international climate targets for shipping. Participants also conducted study visits to Cebu Port to observe onboard energy efficiency practices and fuel consumption monitoring.

Both workshops highlighted the importance of stronger emissions data systems, stakeholder collaboration, and inclusion of domestic shipping within national decarbonization strategies. The SMART-C GHG Project, funded by the South Korea, is designed to help participating countries build the technical and regulatory capacity needed to reduce emissions from shipping and implement the IMO’s climate goals.