The International Green Shipping Corridors Alliance was established in Beijing during the 2026 Global Sustainable Transport Forum. The alliance, led by companies and institutions operating in the maritime transport chain, aims to coordinate the development of international corridors and promote cooperation to reduce emissions from maritime transport. The founding members include China's International Centre for Sustainable Transport Innovation and Knowledge, COSCO Shipping, CMA CGM, China Energy Engineering Group, and Shanghai International Port Group.

The alliance comprises 45 founding members from 12 countries, covering diverse sectors of the green maritime transport value chain. According to the Chinese Shipowners' Mutual Protection and Indemnity Association, a founding member of the alliance, it is the world's first international non-governmental organization focused on cooperation on international green shipping corridors. The association aims to create a collaborative platform and contribute to the sustainable development of the sector.

The first meeting of the alliance's members was held on September 21 in Beijing, where Fu Shuang, former Deputy Minister of Transport of China, was elected as the chairman. The current Deputy Minister, Li Xinghao, attended the meeting and delivered a speech. The alliance's work program includes coordinating green shipping corridor projects, aligning national regulations with international standards for ships, fuel, and ports, and promoting an international certification system for green marine fuel.

The alliance also aims to facilitate transport, technological research, knowledge transfer, and training. It plans to develop pilot projects with international impact, according to the founding association. The announced priorities do not specify concrete routes or launch dates for the first corridors. The alliance brings together major players in the maritime industry to address the pressing issue of reducing emissions from shipping.

The International Green Shipping Corridors Alliance has garnered significant attention from industry stakeholders and governments worldwide. As the global shipping industry continues to grow, the need for sustainable and environmentally friendly transport solutions becomes increasingly pressing. The alliance's efforts to promote green shipping corridors and reduce emissions are seen as a crucial step towards achieving a more sustainable maritime transport system.

COSCO Shipping, a major Chinese shipping company, and CMA CGM, a French container shipping company, are among the key players in the alliance. Their participation is expected to drive growth and innovation in the green shipping sector. The alliance's work program is designed to support the development of green shipping corridors, which can help reduce emissions and promote sustainable economic growth.

The establishment of the International Green Shipping Corridors Alliance marks a significant milestone in the global effort to promote sustainable maritime transport. With its diverse membership and ambitious work program, the alliance is poised to play a crucial role in shaping the future of green shipping. As the alliance moves forward, it will be closely watched by industry stakeholders and governments worldwide.

Key points

  • The International Green Shipping Corridors Alliance was established in Beijing to promote sustainable maritime transport and reduce emissions from shipping.
  • The alliance comprises 45 founding members from 12 countries, covering diverse sectors of the green maritime transport value chain.
  • COSCO Shipping and CMA CGM are among the key players in the alliance, driving growth and innovation in the green shipping sector.

Share this story

Written by

SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.