Brazil seeks China’s support to salvage maritime emissions pact opposed by Trump

Brazil is banking on China to support a landmark UN effort to cut greenhouse gas emissions generated by international shipping as governments prepare for a decisive October vote on the plan.

One of the staunchest supporters of the International Maritime Organisation’s proposed Net-Zero Framework, Brasilia is waiting for China to clarify its position on implementation of the plan, Ports and Airports Minister Sílvio Filho told reporters on Wednesday.

The situation is setting up a stand-off with the administration of US President Donald Trump, which generally opposes any environmental mandates.

The framework will require large ocean-going vessels that do not meet fuel-efficiency standards to pay for their carbon emissions starting in 2027.

Ships over the base-level target will be charged US$380 per tonne of greenhouse gases, measured in carbon dioxide equivalent, while those missing the stricter Direct Compliance target will pay US$100 per tonne.

Revenue from the system will be used to reward the application of cleaner fuels and support a “just transition”, helping developing countries adopt new green technologies.