From policy to practice
Newly appointed IMO Secretary General Arsenio Dominguez has declared 2026 the year of implementation. Rather than drafting more resolutions, the organisation will concentrate on delivering visible results under the theme From Policy to Practice Powering Maritime Excellence. The shift promises clearer timelines for stakeholders ranging from flag states to port authorities.
Modernising seafarer competence
Nearly two million professionals work at sea, and their roles are evolving quickly. The planned revision of the STCW Convention will incorporate training on alternative fuels such as methanol and ammonia, along with remote operation and data analytics. Early engagement with maritime academies should prevent curriculum gaps and ensure cadets graduate ready to manage tomorrow vessels.
Non-obvious insight
Updating the STCW framework will likely influence insurance premiums. Underwriters use crew qualification criteria when calculating risk. Faster dissemination of new competencies around alternative fuels could therefore translate into lower coverage costs for early adopter shipowners, improving the business case for green retrofits.
Advancing decarbonisation
Member states reaffirm the target of net zero greenhouse gas emissions by mid century with intermediate checkpoints under discussion. Technical guidelines for life cycle assessment of fuels are expected by mid year, assisting shipowners in comparing pathways without extensive in house modelling. At the same time the IMO will continue coordinating its voluntary cooperation platform that matches developing countries with donor funded pilot projects.
Autonomous technologies on the horizon
Completion of a mandatory code for Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships will provide clarity on responsibility, communication protocols and collision avoidance standards. Clear rules are essential for ports evaluating mixed traffic scenarios involving both crewed and remote vessels.
Conclusion
The 2026 agenda signals a decisive move from aspiration to execution. By coupling updated human skills with concrete regulatory tools, the IMO aims to accelerate innovation while safeguarding safety and environmental stewardship across global shipping lanes.