Qatar has officially joined MARPOL Annex VI, marking a significant step in the nation’s commitment to global shipping emissions regulations. This move not only aligns Qatar with international standards but also grants it the ability to vote on the adoption of the International Maritime Organization’s (IMO) Net-Zero Framework (NZF).
Qatar’s Accession to MARPOL Annex VI
On September 4, Qatar submitted its instrument of accession to the IMO’s headquarters in London. This formal step allows Qatar to join an existing treaty without prior signatures, making it a Contracting Party with legal obligations equivalent to ratification. The instrument was submitted by Sheikh Abdullah bin Mohammed bin Saud Al-Thani, Qatar’s permanent representative to the IMO, during a meeting with IMO Secretary-General Arsenio Dominguez.
Implications of MARPOL Annex VI
MARPOL Annex VI addresses air pollution from ships, focusing on reducing sulphur oxides (SOx) and nitrogen oxides (NOx) emissions. It implements a global limit of 0.50% sulphur content in marine fuels and mandates energy efficiency measures, such as the Energy Efficiency Existing Ship Index (EEXI) and the Carbon Intensity Indicator (CII). While ships registered under the 108 existing Annex VI Parties—covering over 97% of global tonnage—are already bound by these regulations in all waters, Qatar’s accession extends these responsibilities to its flagged vessels as well. Moreover, Qatari ports will gain inspection and enforcement authority over compliance with these standards, promoting better environmental practices.
Advancements Towards the Net-Zero Framework
Qatar’s accession aligns with upcoming discussions surrounding the IMO’s NZF, which aims to be incorporated as a new Chapter 5 of MARPOL Annex VI. A draft of this framework was circulated among member states during the IMO’s 83rd Marine Environment Protection Committee (MEPC 83) meeting in April 2025, where 63 out of 79 member states supported it. Although Qatar participated in earlier votes, its capacity to influence future amendments is bolstered as a full Annex VI Party.
Voting procedures differ when it comes to treaty amendments. Only Parties to MARPOL Annex VI have voting rights for formal adoptions, which makes Qatar’s accession integral for the nation to both advocate for and oppose amendments to the NZF. Adoption requires a two-thirds majority of these Parties present and voting.
Next Steps for Qatar and the IMO
The MEPC 85 meeting, scheduled from November 30 to December 3, will review revised versions of the NZF framework. A related session, MEPC/ES.2, is expected to resume discussions the following week. Qatar’s ability to vote on amendments after its accession will be crucial, as it signifies the country’s commitment to reducing shipping emissions and enhancing environmental protection in its waters. Moving forward, Qatar aims to strengthen its role in global maritime environmental governance, ultimately contributing to international efforts to combat climate change.
This accession is a pivotal moment for Qatar, allowing the nation to actively participate in shaping maritime policies that affect the environment, air quality, and sustainability in the Gulf region and beyond.