2026 ‘year of implementation’ IMO secretary-general says

THE year 2026 is to be one of “implementation”, IMO secretary-general Arsenio Dominguez says.

In a message for the New Year, the secretary-general said he would like to focus on “getting things done”.

“At IMO, this is the year of implementation; moving from plans to concrete actions and measurable progress, reflected in our world maritime theme," Mr Dominguez said.

He said training for seafarers needed to keep pace with the "new realities" of the industry, with a major update of the Standards of Training Certification and Watchkeeping Convention including emerging technologies, new fuels and changing requirements.  

“On decarbonisation, we are moving ahead with efforts to cut greenhouse gas emissions from the sector by or around 2050.”

This contrasted with a decision by the IMO last year to defer discussions on the net-zero framework.

“When it comes to technology, all eyes will be on the finalisation of the autonomous ships code,” the secretary-general said.

“And of course, IMO will continue supporting the implementation of the High Seas Treaty as it enters into force this month, underlying our global commitment to protect the ocean and biodiversity.”

Watch the secretary-general’s full message here.

Secretary-general Dominguez visited Australia last year to discuss maritime safety and sustainability.

“This visit has reaffirmed our shared priorities—from decarbonisation and digitalisation to workforce development and gender equality,” he said at the time.

“I was especially encouraged by the collaborative spirit I witnessed here, not just in government and industry, but across the wider Pacific region.”