A draft resolution was approved
by MEPC 78 to establish a ECA for sulphur oxides in the Mediterranean Sea
reducing Sox emissions from the current <0.5% to <0.1% even though there
were some surprising objections by states like China & Argentina on the
basis that insufficient work had been done on impact assessments. The committee
however agreed that there are sufficient bunker ports capable of supplying
<0.1% sulphur fuel in the area for the resolution to be approved.
It will be put up for adoption at
MEPC 79 and entry into force is expected on 1st May 2024 (earliest) depending
on how quickly it can be ratified.