The Maritime Transport & Logistics Sector contributed in the regional meeting held in Malta from 18 to 19 November 2025, which was organized by the Regional Marine Pollution Emergency Response Centre for the Mediterranean Sea (REMPEC) and was financed by the IMO’s Integrated Technical Cooperation Programme (ITCP) and the Mediterranean Trust Fund (MTF).
The Meeting discussed the possible designation of the Mediterranean Sea, as a whole, as an Emission Control Area for Nitrogen Oxides, pursuant to MARPOL Annex VI, which would result in more stringent limits on nitrogen oxide emissions from ships, with the aim of improving air quality and safeguarding public health.
The Meeting gathered over 40 participants from 20 out of 22 Contracting Parties to the Barcelona Convention, as well as representatives from relevant regional and international organizations. The Meeting reviewed and discussed the draft Final Technical and Feasibility Study to assess the relevant existing and ongoing studies, as well as to examine the possible designation of the Mediterranean Sea, as a whole, as an Emission Control Area for Nitrogen Oxides, pursuant to MARPOL Annex VI.
Egypt reaffirmed its commitment to international regulations aimed at reducing ship emissions, as well as its dedication to protecting the Mediterranean Sea, ensuring the sustainability of the maritime industry, and supporting regional initiatives that promote environmental protection and sustainable maritime practices.
Key technical, economic, and operational challenges that Egypt may face in the event of implementing these measures were presented, particularly their potential impact on the competitiveness of Egyptian ports and the Suez Canal, which represents a vital artery for global trade and the national economy.
The importance of conducting a comprehensive and balanced assessment of the costs and benefits of these measures at the regional level was emphasized, calling for a gradual and equitable transition that takes into account the economic and technical disparities between the northern and southern Mediterranean countries. This approach would help ensure that no country is left behind, while preserving the competitiveness of Egyptian ports and the Suez Canal.
Participating in the meeting comes as a part of the Maritime Transport & Logistics Sector’s continued efforts to assess ship emission reduction measures across technical, economic, and operational dimensions, aimed at shaping a unified, science-based national position that balances environmental protection with the state’s strategic interests.
